All About Orthodontics
In this article we will go though everything you need to know about orthodontics. If you have questions or concerns about orthodontics procedures, please contact us today!
What is orthodontics?
Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that specializes in the treatment of improperly aligned teeth. Orthodontics also includes the controlling of facial growth and jaw development, used to improve quality of life and appearance.
Orthodontics, originally called orthodontia, comes from the Greek words orthos - meaning ‘straight and proper’, and dontos – meaning ‘teeth’.
Which dental issues are considered orthodontic issues?
- Wide gaps between teeth
- Crooked teeth
- Protruding teeth
- Eating and speech issues (related to teeth)
- Health of gums and teeth
- Tooth wear and injury
- Improper bites (malocclusion)
What is the difference between an Orthodontist and a Dentist?
Dentistry is a broad medical field that deals with teeth, gum, nerves, and jaw, whereas Orthodontists are specialized experts in bringing teeth, lips, and jaws, into proper alignment.
Who is a candidate for orthodontic treatment?
Adults
While children typically receive traditional orthodontic treatment through, dentists may also suggest braces as a solution for adults with orthodontic concerns. As orthodontic technology has advanced, there are now many clear brace options for adults who want to straighten their teeth more discreetly.
Children & Teens
Abnormalities in tooth growth usually develop between the ages of six and twelve; however, orthodontic treatment is unlikely to begin until the child is at least nine years old. Having your child’s misaligned teeth treated during youth, can improve their self-confidence, and lessen the chances that they will have more severe dental issues later in life.
What are braces?
The application of braces is a form of orthodontic treatment designed to correct tooth misalignment. Braces can help to improve a person’s ability to properly bite, improve overall dental health, and increase self-esteem.
Traditional braces work to align teeth through the application of wires, which are bracketed to misaligned teeth, and apply constant pressure over time. As teeth begin to shift into the desired position, an orthodontist re-tightens the braces to continue the shift.
Types of braces include: metal braces, ceramic braces, damon braces, lingual braces, and invisalign.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is an alternative alignment treatment to traditional braces. This process involves the application of custom-fit plastic aligners, which fit into the mouth like a mouth-guard. Clear and removable, Invisalign is one of the most popular brace types for adults who want to straighten teeth slightly and discreetly.
For more information visit our Invisalign Invisible Braces page.
How expensive are orthodontic services?
404 Dental believes that orthodontic treatments are an investment against the cost of more serious problems associated with remaining untreated.
Orthodontic treatment can bring long-term health benefits and lessen the risk of more serious dental concerns later in life.
What can happen if orthodontic problems go untreated?
When orthodontic problems remain untreated, the mouth and jaw can experience tooth decay, gum disease, bone deconstruction, temporomandibular joint problems, and teeth chipping.
What are the benefits of orthodontic treatment?
An orthodontist is able to recognize the various characteristics of the both teeth and jaw deformity, define the nature of the problem, and treat the problem.
Attending yearly dentist appointments, as well as receiving any needed orthodontic treatment will:
- Straighten teeth
- Improve appearance
- Help to maintain general health
- Save you money in the long run
- Improve self-esteem
How can 404 Dental help?
We know that it can be difficult and overwhelming to find a dentist and orthodontist you trust. 404 Dental combines Orthodontic practice with general dentistry to allow for efficient communication and scheduling between services. We collaborate our specialties to provide not only the best service but also the best approach to patient care.
As your trusted and certified Newmarket orthodontist, our team can improve your smile, correct bite discrepancies, and help to prevent other dental issues aggravated by misaligned teeth,
Contact us today to start your journey towards a more beautiful smile.
