While it would be nice to assume that all teeth just naturally erupt through the gum line with ease and in perfect alignment, the fact that we have orthodontists in the dental profession prove that doesn’t always happen. If you have a problem with your bite, your teeth are not straight, or they don’t have enough room to erupt, you’ll be happy to know that your orthodontist in Kittanning can help. How? Allow us to explain how you can achieve a beautiful, perfectly aligned smile with the help of orthodontics.
What is Orthodontics?
If you are in need of orthodontic treatment, it is because you have been referred by a general dentist who believes your teeth or bite could benefit from this type of dentistry. Whether you have crowded teeth, spacing issues, a bite alignment issue, crooked teeth, or an abnormal eruption, orthodontics can address the problem and create a healthier, more aesthetically pleasing mouth.
This specialty area of dentistry uses braces and various corrective appliances to straighten teeth, adjust jaw alignment, and treat other forms of facial and dental problems. Each patient who comes to an orthodontist for help has different needs, which requires a customized treatment plan. While most will need braces, the advancements in dental techniques and applications offer patients greater availability and choice when determining which method of treatment to pursue.
How Can Orthodontics Help?
Depending on your individual case, orthodontics can work in a variety of ways.
Crooked Teeth
Depending on the style of braces you choose – traditional metal braces or Clear Correct – you can achieve straighter teeth with the use of metal brackets and wires or clear, plastic trays. If you opt for metal braces, they will put constant pressure on your teeth. Each time the wire is tightened, your teeth will move toward the right location.
If you choose Clear Correct, clear, plastic aligners will gently shift your teeth in the right direction. You’ll be expected to wear your trays for two weeks before switching to a new set.
Bite Alignment
Whether it’s an overbite, underbite, crossbite, or an open bite, a bite alignment problem can be difficult to live with, especially when trying to eat, breath, sleep, or speak. If the joint where your upper and lower jaw meet is unable to function properly, you will experience immense pain.
Orthodontics can help with this issue by using braces to not only shift your teeth but also your jaw into proper alignment. It is also possible that you might need an upper jaw expander to correct an underbite.
Overcrowding
If your teeth do not have enough room to fit correctly in your mouth, this can cause them to become overcrowded and even cause teeth to erupt improperly. When room is lacking, teeth can become crooked, twisted, displaced, or even erupt in the wrong direction! Braces can shift your teeth in a way that creates necessary space. This will decrease the chances for tooth decay and gum disease and will enable you to properly and thoroughly clean your teeth.
Gaps Between Teeth
If too much space exists between your teeth, it can also be problematic. Why? Because gum disease becomes more prevalent and it creates a problem with the functionality of your teeth. If your teeth are too small when they erupt, they may not fill the space provided. This can cause food to become trapped and make it difficult to properly clean your pearly whites.
Braces make it possible to have a fully restored, complete normal-looking smile. By placing pressure on your teeth, they can move them back toward each other, eliminating unnecessary space and bringing your bite back into proper alignment.
If you or your child are in need or orthodontics, don’t wait to seek help. Straighter teeth make for a healthier mouth, so it is in your best interest to seek treatment as soon as possible and keep your oral health in optimal condition.
About the Author
Dr. Ray Voller earned his dental degree from the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine in 1980. Since then, he has earned a certificate in orthodontics from the United States Dental Institute and Fellowship and Mastership awards from the Academy of General Dentistry. At Voller Dentistry, Dr. Voller and his team can treat patients of all ages who need orthodontic treatment. Straighter teeth mean greater oral health, and our expert professionals aim to provide you with a variety of options to achieve a smile you deserve. To learn more about our services, visit our website or call (724) 543-4948.