Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that focuses on diagnosing, preventing, and treating jaw misalignment and crooked teeth. Misaligned teeth can be unattractive and make biting or chewing food properly hard. When left untreated, crooked teeth can also contribute to gum problems, tooth decay, and abnormal wear of the tooth enamel. At First Smile Family Dental, various types of orthodontic treatments are available, and the specific type recommended for an individual depends on their unique dental condition.
Types of Orthodontic Treatments
Traditional Metal Braces
Metal braces are the most recognizable and traditional orthodontic treatment. They consist of metal brackets attached to the teeth, connected by archwires. Over time, the tension in the wires applies pressure to the teeth, gradually moving them into their proper positions. Metal braces are highly effective and versatile, capable of addressing various dental misalignments.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces are similar to traditional metal braces but use tooth-colored or clear ceramic brackets instead of metal brackets. This makes them less noticeable and more aesthetically appealing. Ceramic braces are popular for individuals who desire a less conspicuous orthodontic treatment option.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners like Invisalign are a popular alternative to traditional braces. They consist of custom-made, clear plastic aligners that gradually move the teeth into alignment. Clear aligners are removable, making them convenient for eating, brushing, and flossing. They are virtually invisible when worn and offer flexibility and comfort during treatment.
Why Straighten Teeth?
When teeth are misaligned, sometimes it can be tough to reach every surface of each tooth. Properly brushing and flossing your teeth helps remove plaque buildup, which can lead to cavities if left to sit. By straightening your smile with braces, you have greater accessibility to each surface of every tooth so that you can fight plaque buildup more effectively.
When you suffer from misalignment, the pressure from biting and chewing can be distributed unevenly throughout the mouth. As a result, some areas are pushed together too hard while other areas are not pushed together at all. Over time, this uneven pressure can cause the teeth to chip, crack, and break. Misaligned teeth can also increase the chances of developing gum disease because it can be challenging to keep the area underneath the gum line clean when it’s not easily accessible. You can decrease your risk of encountering these issues by straightening your teeth.
But the benefits of a straighter smile extend beyond your oral health. A healthy smile makes many people feel more confident about their appearance, positively impacting their self-esteem. Additionally, having a straighter smile can make it easier to chew your food, which can help boost your overall nutritional intake.
Orthodontic treatments are designed to correct misaligned teeth and jaw irregularities, improving oral function, aesthetics, and overall oral health. If you’re interested in learning more about how orthodontics treatments can improve your oral health and lead to a healthier and happier life, visit First Smile Family Dental at 32717 1st Ave S., Suite 9, Federal Way, WA 98003 or call (253) 785-7323.