Navigating Orthodontic Treatment: What You Need To Know

Orthodontic treatment focuses on fixing malocclusions ("bad bites") and other teeth alignment issues. This therapy can benefit people of all ages who want a straighter and healthier smile. Here is a closer look at what this treatment involves, what they can do, and things you need to know to help you decide if orthodontic treatment is right for you.

What is orthodontic treatment?

Orthodontic treatment involves using braces, clear aligners, and other orthodontic appliances to slowly place pressure on the teeth to move them into a more ideal position. Any dentist may perform this treatment, but an orthodontist is a dentist who specializes in diagnosing and fixing teeth alignment issues. Orthodontists are often best equipped to provide this treatment, especially for complex cases.

Orthodontic treatment usually involves months or years of active treatment. During this time, the patient wears braces or clear aligners to move the teeth into position. Active treatment is followed by retention, during which the patient wears a retainer to help the teeth maintain their new positions.

Benefits of orthodontic treatment

Most people are familiar with the cosmetic benefits of orthodontics. However, orthodontic treatment offers more than a way to gain a straighter smile. When teeth are in their ideal positions, they are better equipped for chewing and biting down. In addition, when teeth are well aligned, they are easier to keep clean and less likely to develop wear or damage. Some people benefit from alleviating dental pain and headaches thanks to orthodontic treatment.

Candidates for orthodontic treatment

Almost anyone who wants a straighter smile for cosmetic or oral health reasons can benefit from orthodontic treatment. Usually, orthodontists recommend children have their first orthodontic evaluation at seven. Even though orthodontics is often associated with the teenage years, adults with bite issues or other misalignments can also improve their smile's appearance with the help of orthodontic treatment. However, before treatment begins, candidates must have a solid foundation of good oral health, including healthy gums and cavity-free teeth.

Orthodontic treatment options

Today, there are two main orthodontic options: braces and clear aligners. Each has clear benefits and things to consider when choosing the option that best suits the patient.

Braces

Braces involve using fixed orthodontic appliances, such as brackets and wires, to place gradual pressure on teeth so that, over time, they move into a more ideal position. Braces come in a few different varieties, including traditional metal braces, tooth-colored ceramic braces, lingual, and self-litigating braces. The appliances are fixed and can only be removed by a dentist or orthodontist. Active treatment with braces can take anywhere from under a year to up to three years, depending on the patient. This is the most widely used form of orthodontic treatment and is especially useful for children and patients with severe malocclusions.

Clear aligners

Clear aligners are a newer advancement in orthodontic treatment. They involve using a series of custom-fit and removable clear trays that the patient wears for at least 22 hours daily. Every few weeks, the patient gets a new set of trays that gradually pressure teeth, moving them into the ideal position. An attractive advantage to clear aligners is that they are not as noticeable as braces and can be talent out for eating and teeth cleaning. However, the patient must wear them the recommended amount of time each day and be good about keeping track of the aligners when not wearing them so they are not damaged or lost. Typically, clear aligners are not recommended for children or those with severe malocclusions or bit issues.

How treatment works

All treatment begins with a consultation, during which the orthodontist examines the patient's bite and mouth and talks to the patient about their goals. No matter the patient's treatment, the orthodontist will need to take photos and create physical or digital impressions of the mouth for treatment planning and designing the appliances. The patient should meet with their regular dentist to take care of any dental health issues before treatment starts. After orthodontic treatment starts, the patient will see the orthodontist regularly to track the treatment progress and make any necessary repairs or adjustments. The treatment concludes with the patient wearing a retainer for a while to ensure teeth maintain their new positions.

Start your journey to straighter teeth

You deserve a healthy smile that you are proud to show off, and Precision Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry can help you achieve one. We offer treatment with braces or clear aligners in Reston and the surrounding area. Call our team today to learn more about how orthodontic treatment can improve the health and appearance of your smile.

Request an appointment here: https://www.orthodonticprecision.com or call Precision Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry at (703) 391-8800 for an appointment in our Reston office.

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