Have you ever checked in the mirror and desired that your teeth were straighter? Or maybe you’ve had difficulty biting or chewing accurately? If so, you are not solo. Many people handle problems related to the alignment of their teeth or jaws, and that’s exactly where orthodontic services come in. These services are all about fixing challenges with crooked teeth, crowded mouths, or misaligned bites.
The main objective is to help you enjoy a healthy mouth and a smile you can feel proud of. Orthodontic treatment is more than just acquiring braces. Achieving the perfect smile requires careful planning, professional care, and modern tools to move your teeth into the right position over time. Even if you are a child, teen, or adult, it’s never too late to start your journey toward a better smile.
How Are Orthodontists Different from Dentists?
It’s easy to believe that dentists and orthodontists do the same work, but they play various roles. Dentists manage a wide variety of oral health problems, such as cleaning your teeth, filling cavities, and treating gum disease. They experience years of training and education to keep their mouth healthy and strong.
Orthodontists, however, are dental specialists who choose to go even further. After finishing dental school, they take an extra two or three years of special training, concentrating only on how to move teeth and fix jaw alignment. That’s why they’re the dental experts when it comes to braces, clear aligners, and other devices used to straighten teeth.
So, while your routine dentist can help keep your teeth clean and healthy, an orthodontist is the right person to see if your teeth or jaws aren’t lining up accurately.
What Kinds of Problems Do Orthodontic Services Treat?
Orthodontic services are designed to fix several common dental problems that impact the appearance and function of your mouth.
Crowded or Crooked Teeth
One of the most common complications is crowded or crooked teeth. When teeth overlap or twist, it can be tough to clean them perfectly, which may lead to tooth decay or gum issues. Braces or clear aligners can mildly move them into the exact place.
Bite
The second issue is bite issues, also referred to as malocclusions. They are overbites, underbites, and crossbites. Not only do they affect the way you chew food, but they also create jaw pain or uneven tooth wear. Orthodontists use particular devices, such as braces or expanders, to correct these bite issues over a period of time.
Hold Space
Sometimes, orthopedic treatment is also necessary to place something in the mouth. For example, if a child loses a tooth very quickly, the nearby teeth can move into the space. This can later give rise to problems when adult teeth come in. Artodontic tools such as the space creator can help prevent it.
To begin with, by fixing these problems, jaw orthopedic services help increase your smile and protect your oral health for the future.
What Treatment Options Are Available?
There is no one-size-fits-all solution for orthodontic care. Each person’s mouth is unique, and therapy plans are tailored to meet individual requirements.
- Meta Braces: One of the most common treatments is metal braces, including brackets and wires to move the teeth over time. These are very effective and suggested for more complex dental problems.
- Clear Braces or Clear Aligners: If you prefer a more discreet option, clear braces or clear aligners such as Invisalign may be better suited for you. These alternatives are nearly invisible and can be removed for eating and brushing, making them a popular selection for many teens and adults, as they are easier to handle and less detectable.
- Tools: In addition, tools that may be used during treatment include retainers (to keep your teeth in place after acquiring braces), expanders (to widen your jaw if required), and space maintainers (to avoid teeth from shifting when one is missing).
Your orthodontist will assist you in choosing the treatment that is best for your lifestyle and goals.
Why Does Orthodontic Treatment Take Time?
Moving teeth is a steady and careful procedure. That’s why most orthodontic treatments last anywhere from 12 to 36 months. The duration depends on the severity of the problem and the type of therapy being used. Though it may take time, the results are worth it. Once the treatment is finished, you’ll likely wear a retainer to keep your teeth from shifting back. This step is significant if you want your new smile to last for years.
Why Choose Dietrich Kelso Orthodontist for Orthodontic Services?
At Dietrich Kelso Orthodontist, we provide expert dental care tailored to your needs. Whether you need braces, scaling and root planning, implants, or dentures, our talented staff ensures high-quality results for a healthy, confident smile.
A skilled dentist has the special tools and expertise to remove the tartar that causes periodontal disease. We offer personalized care, advanced techniques, and scaling and root planning instruments. Trust us to restore your smile beautifully and maintain your oral health.
Final Thoughts
In summary, orthodontic services involve much more than simply straightening teeth. They greatly enhance oral health, fix bite problems, and help you feel better about your smile. Even if you’re a child, teen, or adult, it’s never too late to benefit from orthodontic care.
At DKO Smile, you’ll get expert advice, a clear treatment plan, and a team that truly cares about your comfort and results. An appreciative examination is the first and free step, so there’s no reason to wait.