What Is Orthodontics?
Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry specializing in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of malocclusions. Also referred to as a bad bite, having a malocclusion simply means your teeth are not aligned the way they should be. This can damage your face, teeth, and jaws. When left untreated, malocclusions can lead to pain, cavities, tooth loss, and TMJ issues.
Crooked or misaligned teeth are often the most noticeable part of a person’s smile, leaving them self-conscious and reluctant to smile. Orthodontic care from our Corner Street Dental dentists will correct the health and appearance of your teeth, giving you a perfect smile you’ll be happy to share with friends.
Orthodontic Treatment Fixes These Issues
Orthodontic care can be used to treat several types of malocclusions, including:
Overcrowding
Some patients’ arches are too small to accommodate all their teeth. In these cases, overcrowding can occur. This often leads to twisting and displacement of teeth.
Underbite
An underbite is what we call a lower jaw that protrudes further out than the upper jaw. Your jaw may look large or pointed if you have an underbite.
Overbite
An overbite is the opposite of an underbite — your upper jaw protrudes more than your lower jaw. This can make your chin look smaller and less pronounced.
Your Treatment Options
Fixed Appliances
Fixed appliances are orthodontic devices that are attached to your teeth and cannot be removed, except by your orthodontist. Traditional metal braces are the most common type of fixed appliance. Metal braces with less noticeable ceramic brackets are also available.
Removable Devices
Removable appliances are orthodontic devices or pieces that aren’t permanently attached to your teeth. These include headgear, retainers, and clear aligners like ClearCorrect®. ClearCorrect aligners are barely noticeable and they allow you to eat whatever you want during treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
While orthodontists are known for providing braces, and that is their primary focus. However, orthodontics care also includes the repositioning of the jaw and any alignment of teeth. If you have an overbite, underbite, or crossbite, an orthodontist can evaluate the position of your jaw to determine if they need correction.
Braces can be effective throughout adolescence and adulthood. Teeth are easier to move when you’re younger because your mouth is still developing and shifting. Once you reach adulthood, your teeth will take more time to be corrected, but it can be done. Your orthodontist can determine if braces are the right choice for your teeth.
Yes, adults can get braces. There’s no upper age limit to getting braces, as long as your orthodontist determines they’re a good solution for your smile. We also provide several options for adult orthodontics, including Invisalign®. Clear aligners are popular among adults because they don’t require metal brackets and are hardly noticeable.