Orthodontics

How can orthodontics improve the appearance of my smile?

Never before have there been so many options when it comes to orthodontics treatment. You can choose from traditional metal braces, which now come in several different forms or tray-based aligner systems like Invisalign®. 

All orthodontic systems use gentle pressure to slowly shift your teeth into optimal alignment. Over time, this pressure causes your jaw bone tissue to remodel around your tooth roots as they move. 

Some of the alignment issues orthodontic care can improve include:

• Overbite
• Underbite
• Crossbite
• Open bite
• Gapped teeth
• Mix of permanent and baby teeth
• General misalignment

During your initial consultation, your general dentistry provider explains which options offer the best fit for your needs. 

Do orthodontics deliver oral health benefits as well as aesthetic improvements?

While orthodontic care is most commonly performed as part of cosmetic dentistry to create aesthetic enhancements, there are also many oral health benefits that come with braces. For instance, misaligned teeth are more challenging to properly clean, which can lead to cavities, especially in the spaces where teeth join together. 

Misalignment also causes problems with your bite. When your teeth don’t fit together properly when you bite and chew food, undue pressure is placed on certain teeth. This can cause teeth to chip, crack, or become worn down. 

In some cases, severe misalignment can interfere with normal speech. Braces can create a functional and visually appealing smile, helping you feel more confident about the impressions you make on the world. Reality Bites Dental also offers gum surgery to refine the contouring of your gumline after you complete orthodontic treatment.  

How long does it take to complete orthodontic treatment?

Every smile is unique, and your journey through orthodontic care is unlike that of any other person. Your treatment timeline depends on several factors, including the severity of your misalignment. 

Coming in for your scheduled appointments is essential so your provider can place a new treatment wire, which is the mechanism that creates pressure and moves your treatment plan forward. 

For those who choose Invisalign orthodontics, wearing your aligners as prescribed is a critical part of successful treatment. Aligners can only work when they’re being worn, so leaving your trays out for long periods of time will delay your progress. 

When you’re ready to learn more, call Reality Bites Dental or request an appointment online today.