An orthodontist deals with concerns related to the alignment of the teeth and the jaw. The most common concerns they treat are crooked or overcrowded teeth and a misaligned jaw. This article discusses how an orthodontist can help patients fix misalignments and create an even smile and bite.
How an orthodontist treats teeth and jaw misalignments
The most proven ways to straighten teeth and jaw misalignments are through braces, clear aligners, and other orthodontic treatment options. By learning more about your orthodontic treatment options, you can decide which one is right for your specific situation.
The purpose of orthodontic treatment
Orthodontics is a dental specialty that addresses jaw and teeth alignment concerns. Orthodontists go through extensive education and training to specialize in this branch of dentistry. This provides patients with an improved smile and better function, along with reducing the risk of cavities in hard-to-reach areas of the mouth.
Orthodontic treatment to correct teeth and jaw misalignments
Orthodontic treatment addresses jaw and teeth misalignments. The specific types of alignment concerns treatments such as braces and clear aligners can address include:
- Crooked teeth
- Overcrowding
- Teeth gaps
- Underbite
- Overbite
- Crossbite
The orthodontist can determine the precise concerns a patient has and discuss treatment goals during a consultation, followed by providing a treatment recommendation on the same visit.
Choosing the right orthodontic solution
The recommended treatment solution your orthodontist provides depends on the severity of the misalignment and treatment preference. The two most common forms of orthodontic treatment are metal braces and clear aligners. Lingual or ceramic braces may be an available option as well, in addition to veneers or bonding for addressing minor instances of short teeth or teeth gaps. An orthodontist can explain the pros and cons of each available option and make a recommendation during a consultation visit.
The orthodontic treatment process explained
The process begins with a consultation visit. The treatment plan is put together during the first visit, and the patient can begin during a follow-up appointment. Depending on the type of treatment chosen, the patient is asked to come in regularly to either change their aligners or have their braces tightened as teeth shift into a better alignment.
Keeping a straight smile after treatment from an orthodontist
Treatment to fix misaligned teeth and a bad bite can typically take up to two years. After treatment, patients are required to wear a retainer to prevent teeth from shifting back to their original position. The retainer should be worn all day at first, and once the jawbone hardens around the teeth, then it only is required to wear while sleeping.
Ready to set up an appointment?
Whether you have crooked teeth, an overbite, or other orthodontic concerns, we can help. We offer braces, clear aligners, and additional orthodontic solutions, providing a personalized treatment plan to help patients achieve ideal teeth and jaw alignment. Contact us today to learn more and to schedule a visit.
Request an appointment or call Price Family Orthodontics at 972-528-5519 for an appointment in our Frisco office.
Related Posts
When it comes to teeth straightening, two options come to mind: braces or clear aligners. Though people usually have a predetermined idea of which option they would like, it is important to consult a dentist first. Though both options are effective, there are key differences to take into account when choosing between the two.Before discussing…
Braces are used to address myriad oral health concerns, including but not limited to overcrowding, gaps between teeth (i.e., spacing concerns), and crooked teeth. They can also address bite complications like underbites, overbites, and crossbites. In this review, we look specifically at how braces can fix overcrowding and spacing issues in patients of all ages.Whether…
Traditional braces have been used for decades to address a variety of dental problems. These metal brackets and wires have proven to be highly effective in correcting alignment issues and creating beautiful smiles for patients of all ages. Let us explore the many reasons why an orthodontist may recommend traditional braces.Crowding occurs when the jaw…