Three Things You Should Know About Orthodontics and Braces

If you are interested in straightening your teeth, we encourage you to visit our Laurel orthodontics office for braces. This is an excellent treatment solution if you have crooked teeth, gaps in between them, or a misaligned jaw. In the past several years, more solutions have become available so we have several ways to straighten your teeth and can discuss them with you during a consultation.

When you first come in, we will need to conduct a physical examination and take X-rays so that we can determine the exact position of your teeth and bite, then make a determination as to the best way to correct any challenges that you have. We will explain everything in detail and answer any questions so that you can make a fully informed decision regarding how to best proceed. With that in mind, here are a few things to keep in mind.

Orthodontics takes time.

Moving the teeth into the right position is a process that takes time because we must do so gradually. If a patient tries to move the teeth too quickly, then the teeth and roots can sustain damage. Improperly speeding up the teeth straightening process can lead to sensitivity and irritation, something that a patient can avoid with a proper treatment schedule. While there is no magical fix to straightening one's teeth, the solutions we offer are effective. There are also steps a patient can take to keep the treatment on track. This includes protecting the teeth and keeping regular dental appointments.

You have options to straighten your teeth.

Braces are popular because they are a dependable solution that produces results. Many people owe their beautiful smiles to wearing braces. Traditional metal braces no longer take up the majority of one's teeth, the brackets and wires are now smaller than in the past, making them more discreet. Still, if one likes the idea of straightening teeth but does not want anyone to notice, clear aligners are a better solution. In this procedure, clear plastic aligners that look like retainers will surround the upper and lower teeth.

By applying pressure, the aligners move the teeth into the right position over time. Both solutions can also help align the jaw. Occasionally, there is a tooth that will not respond to orthodontics and in this situation, oral surgery may be necessary, but this is rare. We also see patients that only have one or two minor issues to correct, like a small gap between their teeth. In this case, orthodontics may be a more intensive procedure than what the patient needs. Cosmetic dentistry can address these small issues and do so in less than a month.

You must care for your teeth.

During an orthodontics treatment, you must take good care of your teeth. This is true whether you are wearing braces or aligners but even more so when you wear braces. You must brush and floss after every meal to ensure that food does not become stuck and plaque does not build up. This will help your mouth to be healthy for the rest of your treatment.