Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that is dedicated to the treatment of dental misalignment and facial irregularities. Orthodontics improves appearance, oral health, and overall well-being by correcting issues like crooked teeth, overbites, underbites, and crossbites. Orthodontic treatment involves traditional braces, clear aligners, and other devices gently guiding a person’s teeth and jaw joint into alignment.
Why Is Orthodontics Important?
Orthodontics can improve a person’s oral health and overall quality of life. Some of the main ways in which it does this are:
- Providing the boost in self-confidence (and perception of others) that comes with having a strong, healthy, and perfectly aligned smile
- Making it easier to eat and speak clearly and comfortably
- Facilitating stronger biting and chewing functions, which facilitates overall health by improving digestion and nutrient absorption
- Fixing crooked or misaligned teeth, making them easier to properly care for, and reducing the risk of cavities, plaque buildup, and gum disease
Popular Types of Orthodontics
There are several different orthodontic treatments, each suited to particular patient needs, goals, and preferences. The popular among these are:
- Traditional metal braces – A series of metal brackets attached to the fronts of teeth and connected by wires. An orthodontist gradually tightens these over time, gradually moving the patient’s teeth into the alignment.
- Clear aligners – Orthodontic systems that employ sets of clear, removable mouthpiece-like plastic trays to move teeth into alignment. Clear aligners – like those used in the Invisalign® system – are ideal for patients seeking a discreet solution.
- Ceramic braces – Functionally similar to metal braces but far more discreet, as their brackets are clear or tooth-colored brackets.
- Lingual braces – Another treatment that functions like traditional braces. Lingual braces, however, offer the benefit of being virtually invisible, as their brackets are attached to the backs of the teeth.
Candidates for Orthodontic Treatment (and Options for Those Who Aren't)
Orthodontics, while beneficial for patients of all ages, is unfortunately not suited for everyone. The decision as to whether an individual is a good candidate for orthodontic treatment (and which treatment) lies with their dentist or orthodontist. Here are the two biggest factors affecting whether someone is a good candidate for orthodontics:
Age – Orthodontic treatment is most effective when a person's jaw is still developing. This is why it's common among children and teenagers. Adults, however, can also benefit from orthodontics.
Overall oral health – Orthodontics does not address existing oral health issues. Thus, patients with severe gum disease and tooth decay must address these problems before starting orthodontic treatment.
The good news is that patients deemed unsuitable candidates for orthodontic treatment have plenty of alternatives, including:
Porcelain veneers – Thin, tooth-colored shells permanently bonded to the fronts of the teeth to improve appearance. Veneers are a good solution for minor orthodontic issues.
Dental bonding – The use of tooth-colored resin on the surface of the teeth to enhance aesthetic. A good option for patients with minor chips, cracks, discoloration, and misalignment.
Dental crowns – Tooth-shaped porcelain caps placed over teeth to restore form and function. Crowns are an excellent solution for more severely damaged or decayed teeth.
Dental implants – An excellent long-term option for patients who’ve suffered tooth loss. Implants are artificial roots (made out of titanium) surgically placed into the jawbone to support a dental crown, bridge, or denture. Like orthodontics, implant placement has prerequisites, namely sufficiently healthy gums and a fully formed and stable jawbone.
It's important to speak with a dentist or orthodontist to determine whether you’re a good candidate for orthodontics and the most appropriate treatment for you.
The Most Effective and Efficient Orthodontics in Elk Grove Village, IL
If you’re in the Elk Grove Village area and want to learn more about how orthodontics can maximize the health and integrity of your bite and the radiance of your smile, contact Dr. Vishal Advani and the friendly and knowledgeable Elk Grove Smile Center team to schedule a consultation!