orthodontics

Teeth transformations: from ordinary to orthodontic extraordinary.

 
OVERVIEW
BRACES
ALIGNERS/CLEAR ALIGNERS
RETAINERS
 

What Is Orthodontics?

Orthodontists offer long-term solutions for crooked teeth, using braces, aligners, or retainers to fix overbites and underbites. We’re here to help you explore your options for a healthier, happier smile.

Open mouth with crooked teeth
 

The Benefits of Orthodontics

 

Oh wait, there are more benefits beyond giving you that picture-ready smile? Yes, indeed! By aligning teeth and correcting bite issues, orthodontic treatments enhance oral health and make daily oral hygiene easier and more effective.

 

Improved Speech

icon of a person talking very loudly.

Straighter Teeth

a full smile that has dentures

A More Confident Smile

icon of a smiling mouth

Better Bite Alignment

an apple that has a bite on it
Reclining blue dentist chair
 

Conditions Treated by Orthodontics

Orthodontic treatment corrects many issues in patients’ teeth and bite alignment. Knowing the different terms used to describe the position or condition of your teeth will help you better understand the treatment required to correct it.

 

Overbite

When teeth come together, the top front teeth should be slightly and comfortably in front of the lower front teeth. If there is a gap between the top and bottom front teeth when the teeth are closed, this is called an overbite. According to an analysis of several studies, about 22% of the global population has a significant overbite. 

 

Underbite/Crossbite

Crossbites and underbites are similar but still distinct. A crossbite can have several variations, but it is generally when any lower teeth are in front of the upper teeth. An underbite is described as all of your front lower teeth protruding in front of your upper teeth. 

 

Crowding

Teeth are considered crowded when they are close together and not evenly spaced. Crowding occurs when a patient does not have enough space in their mouth for all the teeth coming in. Crowded teeth can be difficult to clean because they may overlap each other. Sometimes teeth can be so close together that a thin string of floss cannot get in between the teeth. 

 

Spacing

Spacing is when there are gaps between your teeth. It is the exact opposite problem as crowding because teeth are too far apart, leading to bacterial and plaque growth in these spaces. 

 

Protruding Teeth

Protruding teeth, much like an overbite, is when the teeth are angled forward, in front, and away from the bottom teeth. Protruding teeth are often commonly called buck teeth.

close up graphic of teeth with metal braces
 
 

Orthodontic Services

Orthodontists are healthcare professionals who align teeth and guide facial development, enhancing both aesthetics and smile functionality.

The way you feel about your teeth can significantly impact the way you feel about yourself.

 
Female with braces smiling
 

Let’s Get You Scheduled

 

Start the conversation about straighter teeth with your dentist today.

 

 
 

Orthodontic Treatment and Self-Esteem

Orthodontic treatment can significantly impact self-esteem. Enhancing the alignment and appearance of teeth can provide a newfound sense of confidence in your smile. The process of achieving a straighter smile fosters positive self-image and a more optimistic outlook. As self-esteem grows, it can have an uplifting effect on your well-being and quality of life.

Teenager with braces framing face
 
 

Got questions?

 

Browse our FAQs or give us a call at 1-800-SMILEGEN to learn more.

Orthodontic treatment relies on appliances to gently move teeth into their ideal positions. Braces are the most common appliance. Some orthodontic problems can be treated with clear aligners. In some cases, such as when the teeth are overcrowded, removing teeth may be a necessary orthodontic procedure.

 

Orthodontic procedures can be used to help patients who have difficulty chewing or biting, speaking, or closing their lips. Additionally, Orthodontists can perform procedures necessary to prevent cheek and upper roof biting as well as grinding and clenching teeth. They can also fix protruding, broken, crowded, misplaced, or blocked-out teeth, jaw shifting, protrusion, or recess and help give patients asymmetrical faces.

Both types of braces can help you achieve a straighter, healthier smile, but there are some key differences between them. Metal braces are noticeable when you smile or talk, while clear braces have a more natural tooth-colored appearance. For more complex tooth and bite issues, orthodontists may recommend metal braces.

 

Ceramic braces, as well as clear aligners like Invisalign, may not be appropriate for all orthodontic problems.

 

Learn more in our blog article, "Invisalign vs. Braces."

Braces have two parts: brackets and wires. Brackets are metallic squares that are cemented onto your teeth. Most of the time, brackets are placed on the front of your teeth, but it is sometimes possible to place them on the backs of the teeth. The wires are threaded through the brackets and place gentle forces on your teeth to guide them into their ideal positions.

 

Typically, over several months or years, braces can slowly move the teeth to correct a variety of issues. These issues include things such as crossbites, overbites, or underbites. Braces are especially helpful in cases where your bite is causing headaches or other issues. They can also be used to fix the aesthetics of your smile, such as excessive gaps or spaces between the teeth.

 

Learn more in our blog article, "Metal Braces."

Teeth aligners are another cosmetic alternative to traditional metal braces. There are a series of custom-made, clear plastic trays that fit on top of your teeth. You will wear each tray for around one to three weeks before moving on to the next tray. Over time, the trays gently shift your teeth into their ideal positions. There are many brands of teeth aligners on the market, including Invisalign.

 

In some cases, where there is severe misalignment, your Orthodontist may recommend traditional metal braces. It is always best to check with your provider to see what option works best for your teeth and the type of dental treatment needed.

 

Learn more in our blog article, "What Are Clear/Invisible Aligners and Why Get Them?"

 

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