Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that helps prevent misalignment or correct oral irregularities. As you visit our dentist at Who Does Your Teeth, he can monitor your oral health and determine whether orthodontics is right for you. Dr. Jeffrey Neal can help you know orthodontics can benefit your smile. We invite you to read through the following information to help receive basic orthodontics education in Henrico, Virginia, and to help you feel more comfortable with orthodontic treatments. For more information, please contact us at 804-447-1435 and set up an appointment with our caring dentist!
What is orthodontics?
Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that focuses specifically on correcting teeth and jaw irregularities, especially in how everything aligns and fits together. Some of the most common irregularities that orthodontics can correct include:
• Crooked or crowded teeth
• Upper and lower arches that do not fit together, creating overbites, underbites, crossbites, and open bites
• Gapped or spaced teeth
For most orthodontic treatments, patients will receive an oral appliance to correct their bite or alignment. Our dentist will evaluate your oral condition and help determine which treatment is right for you. Some of the most common orthodontic treatment appliances include:
- Braces
- Invisalign® and clear aligners
- Space maintainers
- Night guards
- Retainers
- Headgear
In some cases, our dentist may work with an oral surgeon or other healthcare professionals for more advanced or complex treatments.
Who can benefit from orthodontics?
An improper or misaligned bite (also called a malocclusion) can arise at any age. Depending on its severity, it can lead to speech and chewing difficulty, and affect your facial structure. In severe cases, malocclusions can lead to TMJ, tooth decay, and periodontal disease. In short, because your bite can change at any age, anyone can benefit from orthodontics.
No matter your age, orthodontics has a variety of treatments that treat your needs and accommodate your lifestyle. However, most orthodontists recommend that it is better to receive treatment earlier in life, ranging anywhere from age 7 to the late teens and early 20s. During this age range, problems are more easily treated, and they can prevent more complex treatments later on.
Why straighten teeth?
According to the American Association of Orthodontists, having straight teeth can assist in your ability to chew, speak, and bite effectively. Having straighter teeth can also prevent or alleviate oral or other health problems, including tooth decay and periodontal disease. In addition, a straighter smile is often a more appealing smile and can bring you confidence. By having a straighter smile, you can more easily clean and care for your smile, ultimately helping your oral health remain in good condition.
For more information about orthodontics and how you can benefit from orthodontic treatment, we welcome you to call or visit our office today.