Why Consider Orthodontics
Orthodontics is the functional branch of dentistry that is responsible for correcting teeth and jaws that are improperly positioned. Crooked and ill-fitting teeth are hard to keep clean and are at some risk of being lost because of tooth decay and gum disease. They also cause increased stress on the chewing muscles leading to head, neck, shoulder and back pain as well as TMJ syndrome in certain cases. Crooked teeth may also detract from one’s appearance.
Orthodontic treatment provides a healthier mouth, a more pleasant appearance, and teeth that can last a lifetime.
A specialist in this dental field is called an orthodontist. Orthodontists, like Dr. Edwards, benefit from two or more years of education beyond their undergraduate studies plus four years in dental school in an ADA-approved orthodontic training program.
Braces for All Ages
Orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age, and adults especially appreciate the benefits of a beautiful smile. One of every five patients in orthodontic treatment is over 21. Adults may have experienced some breakdown or loss of their teeth and bone that supports the teeth and may require periodontal treatment before, during and/or after orthodontic treatment. Bone loss can also limit the amount and direction of tooth movement that is advisable.
We usually recommend braces to improve:
Overly crowded teeth: This occurs when there is simply a lack of room within your jaw for all of your teeth to fit normally. When left untreated, overly crowded teeth can cause dental decay, an increase in chances of gum disease, and can prevent the normal function of teeth.
Widely spaced teeth: This occurs with abnormal continued growth of the jaw bone. When teeth are missing, this issue can also be caused by the other teeth shifting due to extra space. Spacing issues in teeth can cause some periodontal diseases.
Crossbite: This occurs when the upper and lower jaws are both misaligned. It causes one or more upper teeth to bite on the inside of the lower teeth, and can happen on both the front and/or the sides of the mouth. This issue can cause wear of the teeth, gum disease, and bone loss.
Overbite: What people commonly refer to as an “overbite” is known to dental professionals as “overjet.” It occurs when the upper teeth bite over the lower teeth. It’s typically caused by either genetics, bad oral habits, or over development of the bone that supports the teeth. This issue can lead to gum problems or irritation, and/or wear on the lower teeth and can cause painful jaw and joint problems.
Underbite: This occurs when the lower teeth protrude past the front teeth. It’s usually caused by undergrowth of the upper jaw, overgrowth of the lower jaw, or both. It can also be caused by missing upper teeth. This issue can prevent the normal function of front teeth or molars which can lead to tooth wear. It can also cause painful jaw and joint problems.
How Does Orthodontic Treatment Work?
Different types of appliances, fixed or removable, can be used to help move teeth. These appliances place gentle pressure on the teeth and jaws to effect significant movement over time. The severity of the orthodontic problem will determine which orthodontic approach is used.
Removable appliances used may include any of the following:
- Invisalign® – A state-of-the-art alternative to traditional metal braces for adults only. This series of clear, plastic aligners are used by orthodontists to move teeth in the same way that fixed appliances do, only without any wires or metal brackets. Aligners are virtually invisible when in place and may be removed for easier brushing, flossing and eating. The manufacturers of these aligners recently named Dr. Edwards one of their Top Invisalign® Specialists worldwide.
- Removable space maintainers – these devices fulfill the same function as fixed space maintainers. They’re made with an acrylic substance that fits over the jaw, with plastic or wire branches between teeth to keep the gap between them open.
- Jaw repositioning appliances – these devices are also called splints and are worn on either the upper or lower jaw. They help train the jaw to shut in a more favorable position. They are sometimes used for temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ).
- Lip and cheek bumpers – designed to keep the lips or cheeks away from the teeth. Lip and cheek muscles sometimes put pressure on the teeth – these bumpers help relieve that pressure.
- Palatal expander – a device used to expand the arch of the upper jaw. A plastic plate is fitted over the roof of the mouth. Outward pressure on the plate forces the joints in the bones of the palate to open up lengthwise, thereby widening the palatal area.
- Removable retainers -these devices prevent return of the teeth to their previous position. They are often used to prevent thumb sucking also.
- Headgear – a strap is positioned around the back of the head and attached to a metal wire in front. Special headgear slows the growth of the upper jaw, holds the back teeth in place and allows the front teeth to be pulled back.
Fixed appliances used may include any of the following:
- Braces – braces are the most common fixed appliance used in orthodontics. They consist of bands, wires and/or metal brackets. Bands are fixed around the teeth anchoring the whole appliance, while brackets will frequently be bonded to the front of the tooth. Arch wires are passed through the brackets and fixed to the bands. Tightening the arch wire applies pressure to the teeth, gradually moving them to their desired position. Braces can be adjusted monthly to give the desired results, which can even be achieved within a few months. Today’s braces are smaller, lighter and less metallic than in the past. They are produced with bright colors for kids as well as “clear look” preferred by many adults.
- Special fixed appliances – most often used to control thumb sucking and/or tongue thrusting, these devices are fixed to the teeth by bands. Because they are very awkward during meals, they are used only as a last resort.
- Fixed space maintainers - whenever a baby tooth is lost prematurely, a space maintainer can be used to keep the gap open until the permanent tooth erupts. A band is fixed to the tooth next to the empty space, and a wire extends out to the tooth on the other side of the space.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Edwards if your are considering braces.
Don’t hesitate to contact us to discuss any aspect of your dental health – we don’t charge for giving advice!