While common, malocclusion and teeth misalignment can lead to various dental and physical challenges if not addressed. These issues can detract from one’s appearance and disrupt essential functions like chewing and speaking. Furthermore, they may result in tooth loss, decay, TMJ disorders, and uneven tooth wear, underscoring the importance of orthodontic care.

Realigning Teeth with Orthodontic Treatments
Orthodontic treatments utilize a range of appliances, categorized into fixed and removable devices, to correct teeth and jaw alignment.

Fixed Appliances:

• Traditional Dental Braces: The most widely used fixed appliance, braces consist of brackets (metal or tooth-colored) bonded to teeth and connected by an archwire. Orthodontic elastic bands are sometimes added for extra pressure on specific teeth. Regular adjustments gradually move teeth into proper alignment. In cases of overcrowding, tooth extraction might be necessary to optimize space.

Removable Devices:

• Invisalign®: This system employs clear plastic trays, changed every few weeks, to apply consistent pressure and gradually move teeth. Its invisibility makes it a popular choice among those seeking a less noticeable treatment option.
• Headgear: Used mainly for growth and developmental corrections, headgear attaches to a metal framework to address disparities in jaw growth. Reverse pull headgear is utilized when the upper jaw grows slower, while high pull headgear corrects delayed lower jaw growth.
• Retainers: Post-braces, retainers help maintain teeth alignment while the jawbone adjusts to the new positions. They are crucial for ensuring long-term results of orthodontic treatment.

Orthodontic advancements provide various solutions to address individual needs, ensuring that teeth are properly realigned for both functional and aesthetic benefits. For more information on orthodontic appliances and their applications, feel free to contact our office.