Orthodontic treatments can enhance your smile in multiple ways, including cosmetically, restoratively, and provide you with a good foundation to move forward and prevent future dental problems like and cavities and irregular bite patterns from happening.
At Mill Bay Dental, we provide orthodontics near you. Whether you’re returning to our clinic or coming in for the first time, our staff is here to support you on your dental journey. Contact us today.
What Does an Orthodontist Do?
Considered a specialized branch of dental medicine, orthodontics aims to improve people’s smiles by straightening their smiles, altering their bites so that their teeth line up properly, and reducing stress on their jaw.
Typically, this is done by administering braces. The kinds of braces that are available to you are as follows:
Traditional braces
Also referred to as metal braces, this device utilizes metal brackets and arch wires and, in some cases, tiny elastic bands to move your teeth. The arch wires exert firm pressure on your smile, encouraging them to shift over an extended period.
Ceramic braces
Ceramic braces are virtually identical to metal braces, except that the square bracket is made of ceramic. As a result, the material is not as visible, which helps your braces blend in with your natural smile.
Lingual braces
This device is also very similar to traditional braces. Instead of being installed on the external surface of your teeth, they’re installed behind your teeth.
Clear aligner therapy
Invisalign is the most popular form of clear aligner therapy. Trays are designed from high-grade dental plastic and made to fit nice and snug over your top and bottom row of teeth. This “invisible” material is where Invisalign gets its name. If you want to avoid feelings of self-consciousness while undergoing your treatment, then this is the option for you.
On average, most people need to wear braces for 12 to 18 months. Patients who require more extensive care may need to wear them for up to 24 months.
For more information about orthodontic treatment, reach out to your dentist in Mill Bay.
What are the Benefits of Orthodontics?
There are many advantages to obtaining orthodontic care. The primary ones are noted below for your convenience:
• Prevents gum disease (known more formally as periodontal disease).
• Prevents tooth decay.
• Prevent bone deterioration.
• Improves your ability to eat. If you have issues breaking down your food properly into digestible pieces, you may not be able to process it as quickly or properly either.
• Allows us to speak more clearly.
• Reduces the chances of TMD from forming. TMD stands for temporomandibular disorder or dysfunction. These joints are located on either side of our face, connecting our jaw to our skull. When they’re stained or under unnecessary pressure, this can lead to toothaches, headaches, earaches, and even neck aches.
• Less dental emergencies!
• More self-confidence.
If you have any questions or concerns about orthodontics in Mill Bay, book a private consultation with your dentist. They’ll discuss your dental history with you and determine the best course of treatment for your unique situation by means of a physical assessment of your teeth and gums. Your dentist can refer you to an orthodontist who will oversee and conduct the actual treatment.
Who Can Receive Orthodontic Care?
Anyone can seek out orthodontic care. It’s largely dependent on the state of your oral health and what your dental team recommends. Most people begin to inquire about braces and retainers once they reach young adulthood and their teeth are fully mature. But even if you’re in your 40s, 50s, or 60s, it’s never too late to prioritize your smile!
Are you interested in talking to a dentist near you about specialized dental care? Our local dental practice in Mill Bay is here to help you with all your needs. Call, come in, or go to our website to set up a time to come and discuss your treatment options.
