What Orthodontic Treatments are Available?

Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that focuses on diagnosing & treating “bad bites” (malocclusion). Common treatments include braces & transparent aligners. Learn more about what orthodontists use & how they can help.

What Orthodontic Treatments are Available?

Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that focuses on diagnosing and treating “bad bites” (malocclusion). Common treatments include braces, transparent aligners, and retainers. The way your teeth fit together has a major impact on oral health. Invisalign is a popular type of invisible aligner that offers several advantages, such as its “easy to use” design. Invisalign is invisible and removable at all times, but it is more expensive than other braces.

Orthodontics is the treatment of misaligned teeth and jaws, including overbites and underbites, crooked or crowded teeth, or teeth with too much space between them. An orthodontist is a dentist trained to diagnose, prevent, and treat tooth and jaw irregularities. They can correct existing conditions and identify potential problems in the future. Orthodontists work with people of all ages. After orthodontic treatment, everyday tasks such as chewing, biting, talking, flossing and caring for your teeth will be easier.

Fixed orthodontic appliances are used to correct or guide the teeth to the absolute position. Tests will inform your orthodontist about how to proceed with your treatment and what interventions are best for you. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends mouth guards for children and adults during organized sports and recreational activities. Orthodontists use fixed and removable dental devices, such as braces, retainers, and bands, to change the position of the teeth in the mouth. Although results can be achieved within a year, certain conditions must be met at all times, such as observing oral health, following an appropriate diet and using the devices recommended by a professional.

Mandibular surgery is only used if you have finished growing and if less invasive orthodontic treatments have not been successful. The orthodontist will decide the type of orthodontic treatment after evaluating your dental problem. Over time, the orthodontist will tighten and adjust the wires, add brackets to the teeth, and add orthodontic elastics to the treatment. You can easily straighten your teeth and correct your bite with the help of proper orthodontic treatment. Your orthodontist will examine your teeth and take x-rays of your head and mouth to determine your needs. Using diagnostic tools such as clinical exams, plastic tooth models and x-rays, the orthodontist will develop a treatment plan that works for you and your teeth.

Another option is lingual braces, or braces that are placed behind the teeth instead of in front of them. Orthodontic treatment helps prevent serious dental procedures in the future.