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 even 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. Some examples of these appliances are traditional metal braces, inconspicuous clear or tooth-colored braces, and clear aligners, an option for adults and teens.Paragraph 2
Orthodontic treatment can fix bite issues like underbite, crossbite, overbite, open bite, and crowded or widely spaced teeth often noticeable by age 7. Teeth aren’t rigidly fixed in bone but are supported by a flexible ligament that responds to pressure. Braces or clear aligners gently move teeth using light, constant force.
Having orthodontic treatment in childhood is ideal because we can take advantage of a youngster's natural growth processes to help move the teeth into proper alignment. Like the rest of the body, the teeth and jaws are now changing rapidly. So at this time it's possible (for example) to create more room for teeth in a crowded mouth by using a "palatal expander" to rapidly widen the upper jaw. This phase of growth modification can shorten overall treatment time and ensure the best result if additional orthodontic appliances are needed.
But remember, healthy teeth can be moved at any age, so you've never "missed the boat" for orthodontic treatment. In fact, about one in five of today's orthodontic patients are adults. Several technological developments including tooth-colored ceramic braces, clear aligners and invisible lingual braces have made orthodontic appliances less evident, and enhanced the treatment experience for grown-ups. Before treatment, adults are carefully examined for signs of periodontal (gum) disease, which will be brought under control before treatment begins.
When most people think of braces, they picture metal brackets on the front of the teeth with a wire. While still popular, newer options include clear ceramic or plastic braces that are less noticeable, and lingual braces placed behind the teeth for a hidden look. Removable clear aligners are another option. These custom-fit trays gradually shift teeth into place. Each type—fixed or removable—has its pros and cons, which we’ll review with you after a full examination.
Once your orthodontic treatment is completed, it's extremely important to wear a retainer as directed. That's because teeth naturally tend to drift back to their original locations, which is the last thing you want after you've gone to the trouble of straightening them! Wearing a retainer holds your teeth in their new position long enough for new bone and ligament to re-form around them, and helps keep your gorgeous new smile looking good for a lifetime.
If you've been thinking about orthodontic treatment for yourself or someone you care about, you may be wondering: When is the right time to see an orthodontist? It's an excellent question, and there are several ways to answer it. The most basic one is this: You should see an orthodontist any time you have a question about the alignment of your teeth, or the quality of your bite. Sometimes, a problem in this area is painfully obvious. For example, you may have difficulty biting, chewing or speaking, or some of your teeth may be clearly protruding, crowded or misplaced. If that's the case, then it's time to consult with our office — an orthodontist has the special skills and training needed to diagnose and treat the problem.
Other conditions may not be as clear cut. Mouth breathing, clenching or grinding your teeth, and the inability to comfortably close your lips may be signs that orthodontic treatment is needed. Likewise, if your jaws seem to frequently shift in position or make sounds as they move, or if you find you're unintentionally biting your cheek or the roof of your mouth, you may have an orthodontic issue. Teeth that meet abnormally can even cause a facial imbalance (asymmetry), meaning that some facial features aren't in proportion with others. This is a problem that can often be corrected by orthodontic treatment.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a check-up by age 7 for two key reasons. First, tooth development varies widely at that age, and only an expert can tell if there’s a real issue or normal growth. Second, early detection makes treatment easier while a child’s jaw is still growing—for example, using a palatal expander to correct crossbites and potentially avoid surgery later. Other signs that may need attention include early or late loss of baby teeth, thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, and mouth breathing. Early exams don’t always mean immediate treatment—most kids start between ages 9 and 14.
You know when your child should come in for an orthodontic exam. Now, how about you? Do you cover your mouth with your hand when you smile? Are you self-conscious around strangers because your smile isn't as perfect as you want it to be? If so then the best time to see an orthodontist might be — right now! Maybe you think orthodontics is just for kids. If so, then it's time to think again! In fact, according to the AAO, around one in five orthodontic patients today is an adult. Why are more adults getting orthodontic treatment? There are plenty of reasons. Orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age — and in older patients, compliance isn't usually an issue. Plus, with the growing availability of clear aligners, translucent ceramic brackets, and lingual braces, it's getting harder to tell whether or not you're wearing orthodontic appliances. So if you worry that metal braces might clash with your professional image, be sure to ask about less-visible alternatives. Other signs that may need attention include early or late loss of baby teeth, thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, and mouth breathing. Early exams don’t always mean immediate treatment—most kids start between ages 9 and 14.
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