Curious about orthodontic treatment? Read on to learn more. Straight teeth and properly aligned jaws make for a healthy and functional smile. Many people are lucky to have naturally straight teeth, but others require orthodontic intervention to correct overcrowding, gaps, or misalignment. In some cases, orthodontic therapy can extend far beyond repositioning the teeth in the proper positions. The treatment can also correct the aesthetic and functional problems presented by skeletal differences between the lower and upper jaws.
An overview of orthodontic treatment
Orthodontic treatment involves the use of specialized devices to move teeth gradually and precisely in the desired direction. For many years, patients could only get metal braces, but today, patients have several more options. In comparison to earlier models of braces, orthodontic devices these days are slimmer, much less noticeable, and more comfortable.
There are various orthodontic treatments and the duration depends on the patient’s situation. The treatment options for orthodontics may range from moving one tooth to aligning a whole bite. One can achieve significant change within a few months, but more extensive orthodontic issues might require a few years to complete.
The orthodontist understands both oral health and the aesthetic needs for an appealing smile. When patients come in for a consultation, the dental professional will evaluate the situation to determine the next steps. They will recommend a complete range of dentistry services to enhance the alignment, aesthetics, and health of the oral cavity.
The benefits of a well-aligned smile
A straight smile is about more than just physical appearance. Aligned teeth are essential for good dental health, jaw function, and health. Each smile is unique, but the consequences of having crowded, misaligned, or gapped teeth are the same. Straight teeth require less effort to keep clean. In other words, brushing and flossing are quicker. There are a lot fewer places where food could get trapped, which could raise the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
When teeth are properly aligned with no overcrowding, protruding, or sticking out, they are properly protected by the lips and surrounding soft tissues in the mouth. They are better able to resist trauma, being knocked out, or sustaining serious breakage. Straight teeth help with all oral functions. Finally, patients with straighter teeth will be able to talk, eat, and bite into food more easily.
Also, proper alignment of teeth and jaws reduces tooth wear. Misaligned teeth or teeth that do not meet properly can cause more damage and erosion. Proper bite prevents issues with the temporomandibular joint. An imperfect occlusion can affect their function and comfortability. TMJ disorders can cause headaches, jaw discomfort, limited jaw movement, and various types of neck and head pain. A healthy smile is important for overall health because overall well-being and oral health are connected.
The bottom line
As you can see from the above, there are many benefits to undergoing orthodontic treatment. When you go in for your consultation appointment, the orthodontist will evaluate the condition, look, and function of your smile to know if orthodontic treatment is necessary.
Request an appointment here: https://www.smilesbyshell.com or call Dr. Gregory K Shell at (828) 386-9811 for an appointment in our Granite Falls office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Orthodontics in Granite Falls, NC.
Recent Posts
Expert teeth straightening services can help you achieve your dream smile by bringing your teeth back into alignment. However, the advantages of doing so are far from just cosmetic. You also have various options when it comes to this approach, and each choice has its own advantages and disadvantages. So, you should know how expert…
Looking for a braces specialist? Read on to learn more. You might be hesitant to see a braces specialist if you already see a general dentist regularly. In some cases, patients have an individual situation that requires consulting a specialist. Generally, these professionals have more experience in orthodontics and a consultation with them might make…
Are you considering your teeth straightening options? Read on to learn more. Imperfect teeth can lower self-esteem and prevent people from smiling naturally. With all the advances in orthodontics, there are more options for getting straighter, healthier teeth. Getting a teeth straightening procedure is well known for cosmetic reasons, but its health benefits are noteworthy…
An orthodontist spends their entire career helping people to feel confident with their smiles, so if you have searched for “orthodontist near me” and are faced with choices about whom to see, you should choose a professional who values your patronage and happiness.Orthodontists focus on how the teeth are aligned and the jaw's position and…