According to the National Institutes of Health, about 65% of the adult population have at least noticeable teeth misalignments. Addressing malocclusions is crucial since they can encourage gum inflammation and tooth decay. You ought to see Litchfield Park orthodontics whenever you notice teeth misalignments. Read on to explore the impact of orthodontics on your oral health.
What is orthodontics?
Orthodontics is a discipline whose goal is to address misalignments and malocclusion of teeth. Malocclusions can manifest in many different ways. Irregular spacing and teeth misalignments are the most prevalent problem for dental patients.
Malocclusions can be in the form of:
- Crossbite: When the upper teeth fall behind the lower teeth when your mouth is closed.
- Underbite: The lower teeth protrude to cover the upper teeth.
- Open bite: It happens when the lower and upper teeth are not overlapping correctly. It creates between the upper and lower front teeth, creating an opening in between.
- Backteeth misalignments: This happens when the back teeth do not align correctly.
- Teeth crowding: When the teeth have insufficient space to allow teeth to emerge.
- Incorrect spacing: too much spacing between the teeth, increasing the risk of teeth moving out of position.
Malocclusions may emerge from genetic anomalies or problems that arise during childhood. Sucking the thumb and tongue thrusting are common factors that often cause oral health issues later.
Your dental specialist may refer you to an orthodontist after noticing inconsistencies with your teeth and gums. Timely diagnosis and treatment are essential for limiting the risk of oral health issues.
Why do you need orthodontics treatment?
Tooth misalignments impact the function of your teeth and gums. They can affect how you talk, chew, and even breathe.
Malocclusions can complicate the dental hygiene process. Food debris often gets stuck between teeth, increasing the risk of tooth decay.
Teeth may rub against each other, deteriorating the enamel and encouraging tooth decay. The incorrect alignment may also irritate the gums, causing inflammation. In severe cases, it can trigger the rapid progression of gum disease.
Additionally, misalignments can impact your self-esteem and confidence. It may keep you from engaging with peers and colleagues in school or work. Fortunately, several orthodontics treatments can restore the look of your teeth.
Benefits of orthodontics
Developments in orthodontics technology present many treatment options for people with malocclusions. The diagnosis involves taking 3D digital scans of your teeth and gums. The process helps to fabricate dental appliances that fit precisely in your oral cavity.
Metal braces gradually push the teeth back into their original position using archwires and brackets. The conventional approach is ideal for most cases of teeth misalignments.
Your orthodontist may also offer clear aligners, which are virtually undetectable. They are suitable for teens and adults who are often conscious of their teeth’s aesthetics. But they are not ideal for severe cases of malocclusions.
Traditional metal braces may address malocclusions in a shorter time for people with severe misalignments. Your orthodontists can discuss the different options and generate before and after images of your teeth.
To learn more about orthodontics treatment options, call Litchfield Dental today.
