Orthodontic treatment involves using braces or clear aligners to move teeth into proper alignment, improving the look of a smile and making it easier for a person to bite, chew, and speak. The most common orthodontic conditions are crooked teeth, overbites, and underbites. When teeth are overcrowded or overlapping, it may be more difficult to effectively remove plaque, increasing the risk of tooth decay. An underbite can cause speech impediment, while an overbite can cause chronic jaw pain. At Drs. Davila & Velazquez, P.A., we can often correct these problems by straightening the teeth, and patients can achieve a healthier smile.
Orthodontic Treatment Options
Orthodontic treatment can often begin in children as young as seven, but adults can also benefit from orthodontic treatment. Braces are the most common orthodontic appliance to correct minor to moderate alignment issues. They are brackets placed on your teeth and connected by wires and bands. When worn consistently, braces can address misalignments in the teeth and jaw.
Invisalign is a popular alternative to braces for patients looking for a more discreet method of correcting their smile. These clear aligners use gentle pressure to reposition the teeth gradually without the appearance of traditional metal braces. Aligners can also be removed to allow normal brushing and flossing to keep your teeth healthy and clean during treatment.
Retainers are an orthodontic device often used after other types of orthodontic treatment have been completed to prevent teeth from shifting back into their original positions. Patients must wear their retainers regularly while sleeping during the first retention phase to prevent the teeth from moving back to their original position. Once this period is complete, patients may only need to wear their retainer a few nights per week to maintain the results of their orthodontic treatment.
Advantages of Orthodontic Treatments
Misaligned teeth can result in several problems, such as worsening periodontal disease, cavities, and tooth decay. Orthodontic treatment can correct these issues and prevent more severe complications from developing in the future. Additionally, orthodontic work can improve your appearance and boost self-esteem and confidence.
A beautiful smile is also a sign of good oral health, which can affect your personal and professional lives. With straight teeth and an ideal bite, you can enjoy improved speech and eating abilities, making it easier for you to present yourself well in social situations. Improved health can also result in increased energy and decreased pain, often associated with an improper bite or jaw misalignment.
A straighter smile can immediately make you look younger and more attractive! Visit Drs. Davila & Velazquez, P.A. at 120 Oakmont Dr, Greenville, NC 27858, or call (252) 756-7789 for the best dental care for your specific needs.
