An Orthodontist Can Help Straighten Your Smile

With orthodontic treatment, you can say goodbye to your crooked smile. If you are tired of people noticing your misaligned teeth, there are options. Your orthodontist can evaluate your mouth and teeth and give you the effective care you need. Even if you have severe issues, you have hope.

What an orthodontist offers

An orthodontist has knowledge and training of the mouth, teeth and jaw. This professional can diagnose and treat various dysfunctions and concerning conditions. Some of these issues include crossbites, underbites and overbites. Orthodontic treatment also solves crooked teeth, crowded teeth and problems with the patient’s bite. The orthodontist will give personalized care to each individual. The orthodontist will also present different options to the patient to most effectively address the condition.

Consequences of having crooked teeth

Living with crooked teeth can have several drawbacks. Cosmetically, people with misaligned teeth can have poor self-esteem and a negative self-image. Individuals with these issues may feel self-conscious, especially when meeting new people. Crooked teeth can also affect the person’s bite and put excess pressure on the jaw. Teeth can wear down faster as well.

How orthodontics work

By applying braces to the patient’s teeth, misalignments can turn into straight teeth. Traditional metal braces consist of brackets, wires and elastics. These put pressure on the teeth, moving them into the correct places. With continuous pressure, the bone supporting the teeth change shape.

Getting them on

Orthodontic care begins with a consultation with the orthodontist. The doctor will review the patient’s health history and will discuss any recent medications or treatments the person has had. Next, the orthodontist takes X-rays and makes an impression of the person’s mouth. This allows the orthodontist to develop a treatment plan and determine where and how the teeth need to move.

Other parts of the treatment

Along with brackets, elastics and wires, the orthodontist may use other appliances and equipment to straighten a person’s teeth. Spacers are useful when the patient has a crowded mouth. This device creates more room for the orthodontist to place bands in the mouth. Sometimes, the patient will have springs connecting to the brackets. These can close or open spaces between teeth. The patient may also wear a headgear to improve bite abnormalities or to create additional room for teeth.

Duration and frequency

Every patient has different needs, so treatments will vary from person to person. In most cases, the patient can have a straighter smile in as little as one year by wearing metal braces. Other methods such as clear aligners may do the job in six months. Most patients will not have to wear braces for much longer than two years to correct misalignment and bite conditions. Patients can expect to make orthodontic visits every four to six weeks.

Your turn has come

If you are tired of crooked teeth getting in your way, consider getting orthodontic care. Braces can straighten your teeth and help you both cosmetically and with your oral health. Call your orthodontist today to get started on your treatment.

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