Your teeth are an important aspect of your appearance and in addition they contribute to your health by enabling you to chew properly. You should therefore take good care of your teeth so that they can serve you for a long time without problems.
It is also recommended that you visit the dentist at least twice a year to have your teeth checked. A regular visit to the dentist is important so that any problems can be detected early enough. Your dentist will be able to identify if your teeth are misaligned and will refer you to a dentist that has specialized in orthodontics.
What Is Orthodontics?
Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry which focuses on enhancing the appearance and function of teeth that are not properly aligned. Crooked and overcrowded teeth are very difficult to clean and food particles and plaque can end up accumulating in the mouth. This can lead to the development of cavities and periodontal disease.
When the upper and lower teeth are not properly aligned, the muscles that you use to chew can experience excess pressure. This can cause you to have headaches and neck pain. Orthodontic treatment is therefore used to straighten your teeth and align your jaws to give you a proper bite. A dentist that has specialized in the field of orthodontics is known as an orthodontist.
Orthodontic Treatment Options
Orthodontic treatment involves the use of braces which are made up of brackets, arch wires and rubber bands. Retainers are also used once your treatment is over in order to maintain the teeth in their new position. Retainers can also be used to correct teeth that are only slightly out of place. A headgear may also be used to create space for overcrowded teeth by moving the molars behind.
A space maintainer is used when a milk tooth falls off before the permanent tooth erupts. The space maintainer will keep the gap open so that the permanent tooth can erupt without any problem. Aligners are made from a smooth plastic material and they are not visible when worn. They can be removed when eating and when brushing your teeth. The aligners do not use wires and brackets and are therefore comfortable in the mouth.
Conditions That Can Be Treated
There are different conditions that can be effectively treated through the use of orthodontic treatment. An overbite is when the upper teeth bite over the lower teeth while an under bite is when the lower teeth bite over the upper teeth. An open bite is when the upper and lower teeth at the front or side cannot come together when you bite the back teeth. Crowding happens when the space on your jaws is not enough to accommodate all your teeth. Spaced teeth are those that have gaps in between them while a midline that is misplaced is when the center of the upper and lower teeth does not align properly.
Which Treatment Is Suitable For You?
The orthodontist will decide on the treatment options that are suitable for you after diagnosing your condition. The length of your treatment will depend on your condition. If braces are recommended, you will probably have them on for about twenty-four months.
Dr Nino Gullotta is a friendly and passionate orthodontist who has over thirty years of experience in offering orthodontic treatment. For more details, please visit the website Gullotta Orthodontics.