Getting help from an orthodontist is a great way to improve the health and aesthetic of your smile. Orthodontic treatment can help to realign crooked teeth, close gaps between teeth, eliminate overcrowding, and even improve jaw alignment issues. If you are experiencing any of the following signs, then it might be time to make an appointment with a qualified orthodontist.
1. Overbite and Underbite
According to the American Association of Orthodontists, over a quarter of U.S. and Canadian orthodontic patients are adults. Many adults still struggle with overbites and underbites. An overbite occurs when the upper teeth cover too much of the lower teeth, while an underbite is when the lower teeth protrude past the upper ones. Overbites and underbites can cause problems with eating and speaking, as well as tooth issues such as cavities and gum disease. If you have severe overbites and underbites, you should consider orthodontic treatment.
2. Crowded Teeth
Crowding occurs when there is not enough space in the jaw for all of your teeth. This can be caused by genetics, premature loss of baby teeth, or thumb-sucking as a child. Crowding causes it to be harder for you to properly brush and floss your teeth and can increase the risk of plaque buildup and tooth decay. Crowded teeth can also be difficult to clean around if you are using manual flossing tools or a dental water jet. Orthodontic treatment can help move your teeth into a better position that is easier to maintain.
3. Gaps in Teeth
If you have gaps in between your teeth, it can be an aesthetic issue as well as a dental health concern. Gaps between the teeth can make it difficult to properly clean the affected area and increase the risk of plaque buildup or cavities. Orthodontic treatment such as braces or Invisalign can help close the gaps and improve your dental health.
4. Misaligned Jaw
Many patients with misaligned jaws do not realize that their jaw is the problem. An uneven bite can cause problems such as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, which can lead to headaches, neck and shoulder pain, as well as jaw pain when opening or closing your mouth. Orthodontic treatment can help realign your jaw, which can improve the function of your bite and help relieve pain associated with TMJ disorder.
If you are experiencing any of these signs, it’s important to see a qualified orthodontist. Our orthodontist can help diagnose the problem and recommend a treatment plan to help improve your oral health and aesthetic. Give us a call today to schedule an appointment.
What Are Some Benefits of Having Straight Teeth?
According to History of Dentistry, people have struggled with crooked teeth and misaligned jaws since 400 BCE. However, in today’s society, many people will do anything to straighten their teeth regardless of their age. A few decades ago, most patients who wore orthodontic retainers to straighten their teeth were children and teenagers. Today it is a different story, braces and other methods for straightening teeth are now widely available for use in adults as well.
Why is there such a fuss about having straight teeth? Here are some interesting facts!
Benefits of Straight Teeth
• When compared to crooked teeth, straight teeth have a more attractive appearance. In addition to the aesthetic benefits, having straight teeth also has several oral and general health benefits.
• Having straight teeth makes it simpler to keep them clean, which in turn lowers the risk of developing cavities.
• Inflammation of the gums can occur if a person’s teeth are either too close together or too far apart. Periodontal disease may develop because of this. Cleaning between crooked teeth is more challenging because of the narrower spaces.
• Properly aligned teeth improve one’s ability to speak clearly. Your speech may suffer if your teeth are crowded or have gaps between them.
• Straight teeth reduce the frequency and severity of migraines.
• Straight teeth contribute to improved digestion because they chew food more effectively and efficiently, which is the initial stage of the digestive process.
• Compared to crooked teeth, straight teeth are more durable and have a lower risk of cracking or breaking. Crooked teeth are weaker because they are more challenging to clean, which contributes to their deformity.
• If you have straight teeth, you have a better chance of keeping them whole in the event of a fall or other accident.
• When your teeth are straight, your gums, joints, and jawbone suffer less stress. Jaw misalignment caused by crooked teeth can lead to chronic pain in the face, neck, and head.
If you want straight teeth for yourself or a loved one, do not hesitate to reach out to our orthodontists for the best way forward.
In conclusion, straightening your teeth will improve your alignment, oral health, and overall well-being. Book an appointment with Jacaranda Smiles to review your dental health and begin creating your perfect smile!
Keeping Your Kids Teeth Healthy With Orthodontic Treatment
Your child’s first visit to the dentist should be around the age of 1. Many parents are surprised to find out that their child should be seeing a dentist from about the time their primary teeth have erupted. Early intervention is key when it comes to your child’s health including their dental health.
By the time your child is seven years old, they may need orthodontic treatment. The best orthodontist will deliver a range of services that will help ensure that your child’s teeth develop properly and they are set up for a lifetime of good oral health.
For the Health of Your Child’s Teeth
We now know that healthy teeth and gums are not just about aesthetics, chewing, and living pain-free. We know that in the long term dental disease can be linked to other physical health problems like heart disease, headaches, and other physical health concerns.
Many parents do not realize that the placement of the teeth can cause headaches in children, bruxism, and can thwart great results for good oral hygiene. Braces and other orthodontic treatment when applied early in a child’s development (age 7 or above) can deliver exceptional results.
Start With Your Pediatric Dentist
Your pediatric dentist is the professional that will evaluate your child’s teeth and the growth and development of their teeth, but their skill set is limited if braces are going to be necessary. You will have to take your child to an orthodontist for kids. The best orthodontist for children is an orthodontist that specializes in orthodontic services for children and that knows how to put a child at ease.
How Will I Know If My Child Is Going to Need Braces?
Like so many other traits, teeth placement is often inherited from the parents. If you or your partner wore braces or should have worn braces as a child, then it is highly likely that your little one will also have to wear braces.
The sooner the intervention and application of the braces the better it is for your child. Braces Plantation parents have found can be an affordable option when you visit with the best orthodontist. It is an investment in your child’s future oral health and overall health.
What to Expect From Orthodontic Services at Any Age
Orthodontic services have come a long way in recent years, offering solutions for people of all ages seeking a healthier, more confident smile. Whether you’re a parent exploring options for your child, a teenager preparing to align your teeth, or an adult considering orthodontic interventions, there are customized options available. Here, we’ll guide you through what you can expect from orthodontic services at any age.
Orthodontic Care for Children
For children, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that an initial evaluation should occur around the age of seven. This early assessment allows orthodontists to detect any potential issues and create an appropriate treatment plan if needed. Early intervention can proactively address problems before they become more complicated, providing a foundation for a healthier smile in their teenage years and beyond. This early attention can also help guide jaw growth and prevent more extensive treatments later on.
Orthodontic Treatment for Teens
Teenagers often find themselves as the focal group for orthodontic treatments, with braces being a popular rite of passage. In this stage, most orthodontic issues can be effectively addressed, thanks to the ongoing development of the jaws and teeth. Modern braces have evolved to offer various styles and materials, including clear aligners that provide a more aesthetic solution while still being highly effective in correcting dental issues. These options give teenagers the flexibility to choose a treatment that fits their lifestyle and personal preferences while achieving the best possible results.
Orthodontic Options for Adults
Interestingly, according to the American Association of Orthodontists, 27% of Canadian and U.S. orthodontic patients are adults. This statistic reflects the growing trend among adults who choose to improve their dental health and aesthetics later in life. Adult orthodontics has advanced significantly, offering discreet options such as clear aligners and lingual braces, making it easier and less daunting for adults to embark on their orthodontic journey.
No matter your age, orthodontic services are designed to accommodate your unique needs and lifestyle. With advancements in dental technology, achieving a perfect smile is more accessible than ever before. Whether it’s early intervention for your child, braces during your teenage years, or an adult seeking a smile refresh, orthodontists have the expertise and tools to guide you towards optimal dental health at any stage of life. If you’re in need of orthodontic treatment, contact us at Jacaranda Smiles today!
Which Orthodontic Treatment Is Best for You?
Visiting your local orthodontist may be more important than you thought. According to a National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, as much as 15% of the US population have orthodontic problems severe enough to affect their ability to function normally. Whether you have an overbite or crowded teeth, it may be hard to tell which orthodontic treatment is right for you. Read on for more insight.
Metal Braces
Metal braces, also called traditional braces, are the oldest and most well-known type of orthodontic care. These are best for just about any bite or alignment issue. They can correct severe overbite, crowding, spaces, crooked teeth, and more. For severe issues, you may have to wear them for up to two years.
Clear Aligners
Aligners, such as Invisalign, have gained a lot of traction in the past few years. They provide a way to correct milder forms of the issues traditional braces are used for. If you follow your orthodontist’s instructions, the average time for treatment is about 12 months. However, some patients have reported seeing results in as little as three months.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces, like clear aligners, are invisible to those around you, but for a very different reason. Lingual braces are placed on the inside, or tongue side, of the teeth so they cannot be seen when you smile or talk. These are another great option for those who are nervous about the appearance of orthodontic treatments.
Retainers
Retainers are a vital part of aftercare once your initial orthodontic treatment is over. Even after braces or clear aligners have moved your teeth into a straight position, you’ll need to wear a retainer to keep your teeth in place. Otherwise, those teeth can easily move back into their old position. You may have to wear a retainer for about a year after having braces.
There are several types of orthodontic treatment available for patients. The best option depends on the severity of your alignment or bite issue. After a consultation with your local orthodontist, you’ll know the best options to achieve the smile you desire. If you’re ready to correct your smile, visit our local office today. Our caring and experienced dental professionals will walk you through the best treatment options for your situation.
Factors That Affect the Length of Your Child’s Ortho Treatment
Orthodontic treatment is an umbrella term encompassing every type of treatment from an orthodontist, like braces. Most people have to wear braces for an average of two years, according to Nemours. However, several factors impact how long your child’s treatment plan will take. In this article, we’ll cover everything you should know about the various factors to consider.
Orthodontic Issues
The severity of the issues being addressed is one of the most significant factors impacting a treatment timeline. More severe problems will take longer to correct and may require various types of treatment. Your orthodontist will be able to tell you approximately how long the treatment should take for your child’s specific issues.
Following the Plan
How well a child adheres to the rules outlined in a treatment plan is another factor impacting how long orthodontic treatment will take. For example, many children have to wear a retainer. However, if a child doesn’t wear the retainer like they should, the treatment will take longer to achieve the desired results.
Complications
Some children experience certain complications throughout treatment. For example, a child may wind up with broken brackets on their braces. When this happens, the braces do not effectively align the teeth. The more complications like this a child has, the more extended orthodontic treatment will take.
Early Intervention
Many dental conditions are eligible for early intervention strategies. Early intervention often involves various treatments offered to children before adolescence. When children undergo earlier treatment plans to address orthodontic concerns, the treatment plans are shorter when they are older. So, if your child has early intervention plans for the same issues, you can enjoy a shorter treatment plan.
Child’s Age
Children are more susceptible to orthodontic treatment when the bones and teeth are still growing and moving. That’s why it’s common for teenagers to wear braces. Their permanent teeth are in, but they are also still growing. However, the older a child is, the longer the treatment may take. This varies depending on your child.
An orthodontist will perform a comprehensive evaluation to determine specific concerns. They’ll review a treatment plan and tell you how long it will take. Contact Jacaranda Smiles to get started with this exciting process today!