Braces or other appliances straighten your teeth so they look and function more efficiently. Who may need orthodontics? The position of your teeth and jaws has an effect on your bite. Your bite is how your top and bottom teeth come together. When your top and bottom teeth do not fit together properly, this is called a malocclusion or a bad bite. Problems like missing, crooked, crowded or protruding teeth can contribute to a “bad bite”. Thumb or finger sucking may also affect your bite.
What are the benefits of orthodontics?
- Braces
An improper bite can make it hard to chew some foods and may cause some teeth to wear down. It can also cause muscle tension and pain. Teeth that stick out are more easily chipped or broken. Crowded and crooked teeth are harder to clean and may be more likely to get cavities and gum disease. Fixing an improper bite malocclusion improves your smile and your health. Different types of improper bites include deep overbites, crossbites, excessive overjets, crowding of teeth and open bites.
Orthodontic treatment isn’t just for teens, as teeth can be moved at any age. In fact, more and more adults are having orthodontic treatment to improve the look and health of their smile. In some cases it is helpful to start orthodontic treatment before all the permanent (adult) teeth come in, to stop a problem as it is developing. This is called interceptive orthodontics. It allows beneficial modification of jaw growth during puberty to create a proper bite.
How braces are done?
- Adults also benefit from braces
Small brackets (or bands) are attached to each tooth with bonding. Arch wires are fitted into all the brackets and are usually held in place with rubber or wire ties. Braces put gentle pressure on your teeth. Over time, this pressure can move your teeth into the right position. Proper brushing and flossing is even more important for people with braces because plaque can easily build up around the edges of your braces. If this plaque is not properly removed, white or brown marks may appear on the enamel surface of your teeth and these marks may be permanent.
How do I care for my braces?
If you have braces, do not bite on hard things such as ice cubes and nuts. Do not chew the ends of pens or pencils. Also avoid sticky treats like chewing gum or toffee because they can loosen braces, distort wires and even pull braces off your teeth.
Invisalign
For mild malocclusions, Invisalign Clear Braces are another treatment option. They are clear, BPA-free acrylic aligners fit over teeth and work by exerting gentle pressure. This pressure incrementally moves teeth in the desired direction for a beautiful, healthy smile. The aligners are removable, which is an attractive feature. You can easily clean your teeth – and your aligners. There are no diet restrictions with Invisalign, and adult patients appreciate the discrete nature of treatment with clear braces.
- Braces and Invisalign
Book an appointment to determine whether traditional braces or Invisalign clear braces are right for you.