Orthodontic treatment has the potential to transform your smile and improve your oral health. From braces to clear aligners, there are a variety of options available that can help you achieve the perfect smile. But what is orthodontic treatment? What are the benefits, and what should you know before getting started? Read on to find out.
What Is Orthodontic Treatment? An Overview
Teeth straightening involves aligning the teeth and correcting the bite to improve the function and appearance of the teeth. It uses orthodontic tools that exert constant pressure on the teeth and jaw to move the teeth and jaw into their correct positions.
What Conditions Does It Treat?
Teeth straightening addresses a variety of conditions, including:
- Overbite
- Underbite
- Crossbite
- Open bite
- Misaligned jaw
- Unmatched midlines
- Crowding
- Spacing
- Tooth rotation
- Gapped teeth
- Unerupted adult teeth
Who Qualifies for Orthodontic Therapy?
While straightening your teeth can begin at any age, it is best for children and teens to start between the ages of 7 and 14 to take full advantage of the natural growth process. Adults can also get adult orthodontic treatment to fix tooth misalignment issues, even at an older age.
Orthodontic treatment is important for both children and adults looking to improve their oral health and confidence with a beautiful smile.
How Long Does Treatment Typically Take?
Treatment can take anywhere from six months up to 24 months, depending on the complexity of your case. The duration of treatment also relies on how often adjustments need to be made and how often you attend your appointments.
Your orthodontist will be able to give you a better estimate of what to expect for your individual situation.
Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment
There are several benefits for your oral and overall health, including:
- Improved tooth, gum, and bone health
- Aligned jaws
- Easier tooth cleaning
- Improved eating and speech
- Straighter teeth
- A more attractive smile
- Improved self-confidence
Types of Orthodontic Treatment
There are many types of orthodontic treatment, but they fall under two major categories: braces and clear aligners.
Braces
Braces are the most common way to straighten your teeth. They involve brackets attached to the teeth that are connected with a wire and rubber bands at the molars. There are several types available:
- Traditional metal braces: Braces with a metal bracket on each tooth are connected with metal wires.
- Clear (ceramic) braces: Braces with ceramic brackets and frosted wires that match the shade of your teeth.
- Lingual braces: An alternative to traditional metal and clear braces that are placed on the backside of the teeth and, therefore, less visible.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners such as Invisalign are an increasingly popular orthodontic treatment option. They involve using 3D printing technology to produce a series of custom-fitted clear plastic trays.
Clear aligners are an excellent alternative to traditional braces since they are virtually invisible and removable.
Get Orthodontic Treatment With the Best San Jose Orthodontist
Whether you’re a child or an adult, orthodontic treatment can benefit you if you have tooth and/or jaw misalignment issues. Straight, properly aligned teeth improve your oral health and self-confidence, leading to lasting benefits.
Are you interested in orthodontic treatment? The San Jose Orthodontist, Dr. Boschken, is here to help you! With over 20 years of orthodontic experience and a warm, friendly team of dental professionals, he will help you get straighter, healthier teeth. Request an appointment today to begin your journey to the perfect smile you desire.
