Bite Problems and How to Fix Them
Various bite problems can be resolved through Orthodontic treatment, this is often noticeable by around age 7, which may include underbite, cross-bite or excessive overbite — where lower and upper teeth don’t close in the proper position, open bite — where a space remains between top and bottom teeth when the jaw is closed, and crowding or excessive spacing — where teeth are spaced too close together or too far apart.
Teeth need to be moved to correct bite problems — but doing just that isn’t as hard as you might think! Teeth aren’t fixed in their supporting bone, instead, there held in place by the periodontal ligament, similar to a hammock in structure. Orthodontic application moves teeth by carefully applying constant pressure. This force is applied through metal wires that run through small brackets attached to the teeth (braces), or by using semi-rigid, plastic clear aligners.
Orthodontics is for Children and Adults
Orthodontic treatment is ideal during childhood so to take advantage of a child’s natural growth processes to move and align the teeth into their proper location. As a child, the teeth and jaw are changing rapidly, just like the rest of the body, which is the right time to create more room for crowded teeth by using a “palatal expander” in order to rapidly widen the upper jaw. This growth modification can shorten the treatment time and ensure the best result if additional orthodontic applications are needed.
Remember, healthy teeth are moveable at any age, so you never “miss the boat” for orthodontic treatment. One in every five of orthodontic patients today is an adult. Several new technological developments — including tooth-colored ceramic braces, clear aligners and invisible lingual braces — have made orthodontic appliances less evident, and enhanced the treatment experience for grown-ups. Careful examination in done in adults to check for signs of periodontal disease before treatment, which is brought under control before any orthodontic treatment begins.
Types of Orthodontic Appliances
The image of someone wearing braces is probably pictured as small metal brackets bonded to the front of the teeth, with a thin wire running through them. This style remains very popular, but is not the only option. Clear braces use brackets made of ceramic or plastic are hardly visible except for the slim arch-wire. Lingual braces, similar to traditional metal braces, but so that no one can see them, they’re bonded to the back of your teeth (tongue side).
An alternative to fixed orthodontic application are removable clear aligners. This form of orthodontic application consists of a series of clear plastic “trays” that fit over your teeth exactly. Each tray moves your teeth a little bit, until in proper position. Whether removable or fixed, each type of application may have its own advantages or disadvantages in some situations. The best treatment options for you will be discussed after complete examination.
Retention & Post Orthodontic Care
Upon completion of your orthodontic treatment it’s extremely important to wear a retainer as directed. A retainer is required as teeth naturally tend to drift back to their original location, which is something that you never want after you’ve gone to all the trouble of straightening them! Wearing a retainer helps to hold your teeth in their new position long enough for new bone and ligament to re-form around them, and also helps to keep your beautiful new smile looking good for life.
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