Braces and orthodontics are a common specialty treatment that adutls and children seek for a number of reasons. Orthodontic treatment is not just for looks, misaligned teeth are more succeptible to decay and can cause a slew of health issues.
It's never too late to correct misaligned teeth or jaws, in fact many adults seek braces to improve their appearance and health. Follow this basic guide to navigating types of braces, how the process works and when to see an orthodontist.
How do orthodontics work?rnBraces improce a person’s smile by gently applying pressure that stimulates movement in the teeth and gum tissues to correctly aligning teeth. Although there are several types of braces including metal brackets, clear invisible aligners, invisible and ceramic brackets, each type of orthodontic treatment works similarly to correct dental alignment.
This constant pressure moves teeth through a process called bone remodeling, which refers to the gradual breakdown and rebuilding of the jawbone, that actually allows the teeth to move over the course of months or years.
With the help of orthodontic treatments, also known as braces, applying pressure to the teeth, the surrounding ligament transfers that pressure to the jawbone, which in turn breaks down in the immediate area, where the pressure is applied. In the space created by this shifting, the jawbone then naturally rebuilds over time to keep the fit of the teeth snug and the position permanent.
In addition to pressure, successful repositioning of teeth will also depend on patience. Bone remodeling takes time, more so for adults than children, because unlike children, bones are no longer growing.
What sort of issues are corrected or improved with braces?rnOrthodontic treatments can avoid, alleviate or correct one or more issue such as overbite, cross, bite , crowding and more.
rnThe following common issues that orthodontic treatments address:
CrossbiternCrowdingrnMismatched Dental MidlinesrnOpenbiternOverbiternSpacingrnUnderbiternUpper Front Teeth ProtrusionrnCavitiesrnGingivitis (inflamed and swollen gums)rnPeriodontitis (destruction of ligaments and bone that support the teeth)rnChronic halitosis, also known as bad breathrnAbscesses, pain and the inability to use teethrnSpeech impedimentsrnJaw, head, and ear painrnIssues caused by physical trauma
When do you need orthodontic treatment? rnThere is no wrong time to seek an orthodontic assessment, but if and when treatment is best really depends on the individual’s specific dental needs. Now with that said, there are a few guidelines that can help make the decision to make an appointment.
Braces for Children and TeensrnAn initial orthodontic evaluation by a licensed orthodontist should take place by age 7, even if the child’s teeth appear to be straight. Children who harbor bad habits such as thumb sucking or nail biting should also see a dentist for evalutation. Identifying potential problems early will allow the orthodontist to provide consult and appliances that can help children develop healthy teeth.
Adult BracesrnAdults primarily seek orthodontic treatment for cosmetic, corrective and restorative reasons, although many adults seek braces to correct jaw or tooth pain, or to address poor oral health.
Adults should seek orthodontic treatment or adult braces to:
• Prevent or improve periodontal problems
• Prevent or reduce further bone loss around teeth
• Improve ability of the dentist to restore missing teeth
• Improve aesthetics for a better smile and facial appearance
• Improve function of teeth
• Improveself-confidence and self-esteem
• Improve oral health
What should not hold any adult back from seeking treatment is age. Because age is simply a number, every year more and more adults seek orthodontic advice, care, and treatment with great results. Orthodontists offer a range of braces and orthodontic solutions that comfortably and discreetly straighten teeth.
Types of orthodontic treatmentsrnThere are many different types of orthodontic treatment, however most patients pick from traditional metal braces, clear or invisible braces, ceramic braces or clear removable aligners. The type of treatment and length of time required to achieve results varies by patient. Some patients can see results in as little as 6 months to a year, other patients require a longer treatment or orthodontics in conjunction with another treatment.
Metal Brackets Braces
Because advancements in technology, orthodontists now use high grade stainless steel, making today’s metal treatments lighter and more comfortable. Many children and teens enjoy metal braces because they can select fun colors for the brackets or O bands, many parents also opt for this solution because they tend to be less expensive braces.
The metal bracketsare bonded to the teeth and hold in place the metal archwire, the device that puts guided pressure on the teeth to result in movement.
Special care must be taken to thoroughly clean metal treatments to ensure that all food particles have been removed, otherwise gingivitis, plaque, tartar, and cavities may develop. Brushing and flossing, though sometimes tedious, are important for good dental health.
Invisible Clear Correction TraysrnClear correction trays have truly revolutionized orthodontic treatment because they are not only removable but they are nearly undetectable in most scenarios, making them a great option for adults. These trays, also called aligners, are made of hard clear plastic that is custom crafted to fit over teeth. As the teeth move, new aligners are created and supplied to the patient.
After the initial tray, the patient then receives a new and slightly different tray every few weeks. Each removable aligner will move the targeted teeth bit by bit until the teeth are corrected. Patients wear the trays anywhere from 20 to 22 hours a day, most times except while eating or cleaning the teeth.
Cost of BracesrnThe cost of braces varies based on the length of treatment, type of treatment and several other factors. There are affordable braces options, as well as ways to finance orthodontic treatment. Many orthodontists accept payment plans that allow families and individuals to break up the cost of braces into manageable payments. Moreover, some insurance plans have an orthodontic allowance so check with your insurer to see if you qualify.
While braces can create a more aesthetically pleasing smile, orthodontics can also be instrumental in creating healthier smiles. Visit
www.jeffersondentalclinics.com/services/dental-services/orthodontics for more information