Achieving a Perfect Smile: The Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment
What a difference straight teeth can make! A great-looking smile can boost your self-confidence and have a positive impact on social and professional opportunities. Orthodontic treatment is the original smile makeover tool—and you will be happy to know that you’re never too old to take advantage of it. But it isn’t all about looks: Properly aligned teeth help you to bite, chew, and speak more effectively. They are also easier to clean, which helps keep your mouth free of tooth decay and gum disease.
The amazing thing about orthodontics is that it harnesses the body’s natural ability to remodel its own tissue. With the application of light, constant force, orthodontic appliances gently reshape bone and move teeth into better positions.
Bite Problems and How to Fix Them
Orthodontic treatment can resolve a number of bite problems, which often become evident by around age 7:
- Underbite, Crossbite, or Excessive Overbite: Where upper and lower teeth don’t close in the proper position.
- Open Bite: Where a space remains between top and bottom teeth when the jaws are closed.
- Crowding or Excessive Spacing: Where teeth are spaced too close together or too far apart.
Teeth aren’t fixed rigidly in their supporting bone; instead, they’re held in place by a hammock-like structure called the periodontal ligament, which is very responsive to forces. Orthodontic appliances move teeth by careful application of light, constant pressure, applied via metal wires (braces) or the semi-rigid plastic of clear aligners.
Orthodontics is for Children—and Adults
Having orthodontic treatment in childhood is ideal to take advantage of a youngster’s natural growth processes. For example, a “palatal expander” can rapidly widen the upper jaw in a crowded mouth. This growth modification can shorten overall treatment time.
However, healthy teeth can be moved at any age. About one in five of today’s orthodontic patients is an adult. New technological developments, including ceramic braces, clear aligners, and invisible lingual braces, have made the experience better for grown-ups. Before treatment, adults are carefully examined for signs of periodontal (gum) disease, which must be controlled before treatment begins.
Types of Orthodontic Appliances
- Traditional Metal Braces: Small metal brackets bonded to the front of the teeth with a thin wire running through them.
- Clear/Ceramic Braces: Use tooth-colored ceramic or plastic brackets, making them less visible.
- Lingual Braces: Just like traditional metal braces, but they’re bonded to the back (tongue side) of your teeth so no one can see them.
- Removable Clear Aligners: A series of clear plastic “trays” that fit over your teeth exactly. Each tray moves your teeth a little bit until they reach the proper position.
After a complete examination, the best treatment options for your specific situation will be discussed.
Retention & Post Orthodontic Care
Once your orthodontic treatment is completed, it’s extremely important to wear a retainer as directed. Teeth naturally tend to drift back to their original locations. Wearing a retainer holds your teeth in their new position long enough for new bone and ligament to re-form around them, helping to keep your gorgeous new smile looking good for a lifetime.