Orthodontics is a special type of dentistry that involves straightening or moving teeth and aligning jaws to make the mouth function better. It is often needed when teeth or the jaws become crooked, making it harder to keep them clean and to chew correctly. The treatment can also help to improve the overall health of the mouth, gums and teeth by preventing tooth decay and helping to reduce the risk of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
Some of the common issues that orthodontics can fix include:
Crowding – this is when there is not enough room in the mouth to accommodate all the teeth. This makes it hard to floss properly and can lead to cavities. Overcrowded teeth are more likely to trap food which can cause bad breath, and may also increase the risk of gum disease.
Misalignment – this is when the bite is not correct and can cause problems like headaches, shoulder or jaw pain or even sinus problems. It can also cause teeth to wear down faster than they should and can lead to teeth grinding, which can damage the teeth and surrounding tissues.
There are many different types of orthodontic treatment available, so it is important to discuss your options with an orthodontist to find the right treatment for you. These treatments include traditional metal braces, ceramic braces, lingual braces, clear aligners, and self-ligating braces.…