Orthodontics

Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry specializing in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of jaw, face and bite irregularities (malocclusions*). Braces are commonly used to correct misalignment of the teeth and are typically recommended for children and teenagers, but an increasing number of adults are now seeking orthodontic treatments. Dental braces owe their success to technology that supports predictable results. Braces are tailored to the wearer’s unique needs and create beautifully straight smiles.

There are several common alignment problems that dental braces can fix:

• Underbite – An underbite, as the name may indicate, is the reverse of an overbite, where the lower teeth are projected further than the upper teeth. In many cases, the cause of an underbite is either a short upper jaw bone or an excessively large lower jaw bone. Signs of an underbite include a protruding lower lip and a chin that appears overly large.

• Overbite – An overbite is present when the upper arch of teeth projects further than lower teeth. In a more serious case, the lower teeth are completely overlapped. An overbite is also called anterior overlap or a deep bite. Signs of an overbite include a protruding upper lip, a gummy smile and the noticeable wearing of front teeth. This type of malocclusion makes the chin look like it has receded.

• Overcrowding – Overcrowding occurs when there is limited or no available space for permanent teeth to erupt and align properly. As a result of such crowding, some teeth may twist, become impacted or grow in a crooked manner. Though overcrowding is generally considered less serious than other types of irregularities, it tends to look unappealing and hinders efforts to thoroughly brush and floss teeth.

• Crossbite – In many cases, an underbite also gives rise to a crossbite. Crossbite is the tilting of the lower teeth in relation to the upper teeth. This causes the upper teeth to hit the lower teeth on the tongue side, as opposed to the outside. Crossbite can also occur alone and cause uneven wear patterns on the teeth.
  

Why choose braces?

Crooked, twisted or poorly spaced teeth can be an aesthetic issue, but malocclusion and dental misalignment impact far more than appearance. In fact, malocclusion has been linked to other dental problems, as well as uncomfortable physical issues. Even a single improperly positioned tooth can cause difficulties in hygiene routines and make patients feel self-conscious.

Braces offer many benefits, including:

• Improved Oral Hygiene – Poorly aligned teeth can make maintaining excellent oral hygiene difficult. Hard-to-reach places between overlapped and tight teeth can become breeding grounds for oral bacteria.       

• Better Digestion – Serious digestive disorders can result from improper chewing created by significant bite misalignment. Realigning the teeth and jaw using braces restores optimal functionality.         

• Improved Confidence – Dental patients with properly aligned teeth enjoy a positive self-image and do not feel worried about displaying their smiles in social and professional situations.
  

Whether it’s traditional braces or custom made removable appliances, orthodontics can help you have the healthy, straight, beautiful smile you’ve been waiting for! We have a great network of local orthodontics we refer our patients to.

*Malocclusion is the technical term for teeth that don’t fit together correctly.  Malocclusions not only affect the teeth, but also the appearance of the face.  Most malocclusions are inherited; however some are due to acquired habits such as thumb sucking and tongue thrusting.  The spacing left from an adult tooth being extracted or an early loss of a baby tooth can also contribute to a malocclusion.

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