Orthodontics addresses the diagnosis, prevention and correction of misaligned teeth and jaws. It also focuses on modifying facial growth, and is commonly known as dentofacial orthopedics. Depending on the complexity of the case, orthodontics treatment can take as little as six months or up to three years. The time it takes is influenced by the patient’s age, as well as by how much natural growth is still occurring at that point in life.

Orthodontic treatment can help with mild to moderate dental issues like overbite, under bite and crossbite. It can also correct thumb sucking and tongue thrusting, and fix small gaps between the teeth.

Braces

Braces apply continuous pressure to the teeth, slowly moving them into their proper positions. This constant pressure causes some discomfort, especially immediately after an adjustment, but it’s worth the long-term payoff of a straight smile. People who have straight teeth are more likely to smile more often, which in turn affects how others perceive them and can have a positive impact on their social life and career success.

There are many different types of braces, but most consist of a metal wire that fits into the horizontal slots in each bracket and is secured by tiny rubber bands called “ligatures.” These ligatures have a specific job — they connect the arch wire to the bracket, providing the force needed to move the teeth. Today’s brackets are very small and sleek, compared to the bulky models of a generation ago or even those from 10 or 15 years ago. Some are made from clear ceramic material that blends in with the teeth, making them less noticeable than metal braces.

Crooked or crowded teeth are harder to clean, leading to the buildup of hard, white deposits known as calculus, which in turn can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. In addition, a person with crooked or crowded teeth is at a greater risk for chipped or broken teeth as they chew. Wearing braces helps to correct these problems by allowing the dentist to better clean the teeth and remove plaque, reducing the risk of oral disease. Having a healthy mouth also makes it easier to keep up with regular dental hygiene, including flossing and brushing.

Invisalign

During an Invisalign treatment, your teeth will gradually shift into their proper positions. During this process, a series of clear, BPA-free plastic aligners will be worn. Each one will replace the previous one in a row until they are all in place. Invisalign offers several benefits over traditional braces, including a more subtle appearance, the ability to maintain eating and drinking habits without limiting what you can eat or drink (except for water), less discomfort, and a shorter treatment time.

Invisalign can also improve the function of your teeth and jaws. Crooked or misaligned teeth can impact speech and chewing abilities, and many people who have these issues develop a lisp or other speech impediment. Straightening these teeth can help restore these abilities and boost your confidence.

With traditional braces, the metal brackets and wires can trap bits of food stuck in them. This is a problem that can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health problems. With Invisalign, the trays can be easily removed before eating or drinking. This allows patients to enjoy a wide variety of foods and drinks, including sticky, crunchy, or hard foods.

The removable aligners make it easy to brush and floss your teeth, reducing the risk of plaque buildup and other dental problems. Invisalign can also improve your self-esteem by boosting your smile. The clear trays are almost invisible, and you can see the results of your treatment in as little as six months.

Invisalign is a great option for anyone who has crowding or spacing issues and minor bite problems. It is a good choice for adults who are concerned about the cosmetic impact of traditional braces, and some dental insurance plans cover some or all of the costs. If you are considering this type of treatment, talk to your orthodontist to find out more and to discuss your specific needs.