Many people seek orthodontic treatment to repair smiles. Various issues can affect the way a person’s teeth and jaw look. Some people may have bite abnormalities. Other patients may come to an orthodontist because of crowding or gaps in the mouth. If you have crooked teeth, you are among a large number of patients seeking relief and a new smile. With the right treatment, you will see the advantages of straightening crooked teeth.
A smile is one of the first things a person will notice about someone else. When that smile consists of crooked teeth, it can be embarrassing to the individual. In some cases, there is not much a person can do to prevent teeth from coming in crooked. Genetics can play a role in how this occurs. A person’s teeth can also be crooked due to preventable factors.
Thumb-sucking and eating from a bottle as a baby and toddler can cause teeth to be crooked. Early loss of baby teeth can also result in permanent teeth having alignment issues. A person’s teeth can also be crooked because of injuries to the mouth. Poor oral hygiene can cause gum disease, which may lead to the loosening and shifting of teeth.
Braces are perhaps the most common orthodontic treatment that an orthodontist will recommend. Braces consist of metal brackets and wires, along with elastics. Together, these components put pressure on the teeth. Over time, the force moves the teeth into the correct locations in the mouth. A person typically wears braces for two to three years.
More recently, clear aligners have become popular. This appliance resembles a mouthguard that fits over the teeth. The aligners are virtually invisible, which appeals to people who are self-conscious about their appearance. Aligners have the same goal as braces and also put pressure on the teeth. The treatment length is usually shorter. Plus, the aligners are removable and do not need to be in the mouth 24/7.
Even moderately crooked teeth can hamper a person’s self-esteem and self-image. A person with crooked teeth may avoid being around other people. This can lead to challenges in relationships and even at work and in personal pursuits. Straightening teeth with orthodontic treatment can restore a person’s self-esteem. The results can be long-term too.
Crooked teeth do not only have health implications. Misalignments can affect an individual’s oral health too. Crooked teeth can be difficult to brush because they can hide. The person may not be able to reach them or hit every surface with the toothbrush. Consequently, tooth decay and gum disease can develop. By doing orthodontic treatment, the patient can expect to have cleaner, healthier teeth and gums.
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You should not have to live with crooked teeth. This condition can be embarrassing and cause oral issues, including tooth loss. The good news is effective treatment is available. Talk to your orthodontist today about straightening your teeth and what option makes the most sense.
Request an appointment or call Precision Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry at 703-391-8800 for an appointment in our Reston office.
An orthodontist typically offers clear aligner treatments for patients that want a reliable and discreet way to straighten their smile. This blog post discusses some of the more frequently asked questions that orthodontists receive regarding clear aligners and the benefits they can provide. Read on to learn more about clear aligners.Some of the more frequently…
An orthodontist fills a critical role when crooked teeth, bite dysfunctions, and other issues affect your smile. If you are unhappy with the way your teeth work, braces might be the right option. Having crowded teeth is another condition that you may struggle with. This can have both cosmetic and health implications. You can find…
With the help of an orthodontist, even the most troubling orthodontic conditions do not have to permanently ruin your smile. One of the most common conditions that these professionals treat is an underbite. If you have one, you may feel embarrassed about smiling. You may even have pain and discomfort. But you do not have…
An orthodontist typically offers clear aligner treatments for patients that want a reliable and discreet way to straighten their smile. This blog post discusses some of the more frequently asked questions that orthodontists receive regarding clear aligners and the benefits they can provide. Read on to learn more about clear aligners.Some of the more frequently…
An orthodontist fills a critical role when crooked teeth, bite dysfunctions, and other issues affect your smile. If you are unhappy with the way your teeth work, braces might be the right option. Having crowded teeth is another condition that you may struggle with. This can have both cosmetic and health implications. You can find…