Types of Orthodontics

 

Orthodontic treatment is the process of straightening teeth by using appliances and correcting the jaw's alignment. It can be beneficial for a person's smile as well as their oral health, and the results are usually long-lasting.

 

A healthy mouth and a straight set of teeth are important for a person's self-esteem, confidence, and overall health. Crooked teeth and misaligned bites can cause tooth decay, gum disease, and difficulty chewing or speaking. They can also lead to dental emergencies like tooth injury or infection.

It's never too late to start orthodontic treatment!

 

The American Association of Orthodontists estimates that one in five patients receive orthodontic treatment over the age of 18. Even though traditional metal braces are still the most common type of orthodontics, there are several alternative treatments available.

 

Invisalign®: This treatment specializes in discreetly moving teeth and is increasingly becoming more popular among adults. It offers an alternative to traditional braces, with a shorter treatment time and less noticeable style.

 

Clear Aligners: These are clear, removable aligners that are made from a material that is very similar to the color of your teeth. They are designed to be more discreet than traditional braces, which is preferred by many adults who don't want their treatment to stand out.

 

Lingual Braces: Ceramic braces are attached behind the teeth to make them less visible. They are an option for people who don't mind the look of traditional braces but need the benefits of an orthodontic treatment that is quick and effective.

 

Hybrid Treatments: These are a combination of traditional metal braces with other options for treatment, such as clear aligners and headgear. These hybrid options are less noticeable than traditional braces and can be more comfortable, faster, and more affordable.

 

Phase One Orthodontic Treatment: This treatment focuses on establishing proper jaw growth and correcting the alignment of the lower and upper jaws. It may be recommended when a child is showing early signs of jaw discrepancy, such as an overly wide upper jaw or an underbite. This can help prevent severe overbite and underbite issues, as well as the premature loss of baby teeth and other detrimental oral habits.

 

This type of orthodontic treatment often starts at around 12 or 13 years of age. Children need to get orthodontic treatment as soon as possible to help their adult teeth erupt properly and avoid future problems.

 

The first visit to the orthodontist includes an exam and X-rays. The orthodontist will examine your teeth and jaw to determine which problem you have and explain the best way to address it.

 

Your orthodontist will then discuss the treatment options with you, including the best type of appliance for your situation and whether your insurance will cover it. The orthodontist will also show you how your new appliance will fit and work.

 

You'll probably need to wear your new appliance for several days at a time, but you should be able to remove it whenever you need to, such as to eat or drink. You can usually take over-the-counter pain relievers to reduce the discomfort. You can get more enlightened on this topic by reading here: https://www.britannica.com/science/orthodontics.