Orthodontics is a treatment for a malocclusion, which is a condition where the teeth are not properly aligned when your jaw is closed. Orthodontic treatment can improve teeth' appearance, help improve speech and chewing functions and safeguard teeth from damage and decay. To accomplish these goals, an orthodontist utilizes a variety of dental appliances such as plates, headgear, and braces.
Who Should Visit an Orthodontic Specialist?
When your jaws and teeth fail to develop correctly, malocclusion could be the result. The teeth may be crooked, and the top and bottom of the teeth may not be appropriately aligned. Malocclusion can affect the form of the face as well as the appearance of the teeth, leading to embarrassment and loss of self-confidence, or even depression. Severe malocclusion can even affect your speech and eating habits. The treatment of orthodontics aid in improving:
Protruding Front Teeth
Orthodontics enhances the appearance and shields teeth from damage caused by injuries.
Crowding
In some instances, there might not be enough space to accommodate all the teeth. An orthodontist may have to remove one or more teeth to create space for the rest of the teeth.
Impacted Teeth
It happens when the adult teeth do not emerge from the bone or gum or only erupt partially.
Asymmetrical Teeth
When the mouth is closed, the lower and upper teeth are not in harmony, but the teeth show.
Deep Bite or Overbite
When the teeth are tightly clenched, the top teeth are pushed down over the lower ones.
Reverse Bite
When the teeth are clenched, the upper teeth are inside the lower teeth.
Open Bite
When teeth are clenched, there is a gap between the lower and upper teeth.
Underbite
Upper teeth may be too inwards, or the lower ones are too far protruding outwards.
Crossbite
At least one upper tooth is not positioned ahead of the lower one when they are clenched. They are too close to the cheek or tongue.
Spacing
There are excessive gaps between adjacent teeth because of a wider dental arch or drifting of teeth.
Treatment
Orthodontic treatment typically begins at 12 or 13 years, when the adult teeth have begun to develop. Children who have cleft palate and lip might require orthodontic treatment before their adult teeth grow entirely.
A healthy mouth is vital before any orthodontic treatment can begin. When orthodontic devices are placed on teeth, food particles tend to get stuck. Patients will have to be more careful while brushing and frequently brush to avoid tooth decay in the course of treatment. If you don't follow good oral hygiene habits, the treatment may adversely affect your oral health by increasing the chances of developing cavities and gum disease. Your dentist may also suggest avoiding fizzy drinks and sugary snacks, which can cause tooth decay.
Please reach out to our dental practice in Manteca, CA, to have a consultation with our dentist. Please call us at (209) 823-9218 or schedule an online consultation, and we'll guide you further.
