Orthodontic treatment often referred to as orthodontics, is a branch of dentistry that focuses on diagnosing, preventing, and correcting malpositioned teeth and jaws. It is most commonly associated with braces. Though often thought of as a cosmetic procedure meant solely to improve aesthetics, there are many benefits to undergoing orthodontic treatment.
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What Are the Benefits?
Most people seek orthodontic treatment to improve their appearance and make themselves more attractive. However, there are multiple medical benefits in addition to aesthetic advantages. These include improved dental health by better-aligning teeth and helping with difficult toothbrushing areas, reducing wear down of tooth enamel due to abnormal pressure during chewing or speaking, Decreasing the risk of developing jaw pain caused by uneven bites, and improving self-confidence due to having straight teeth. Furthermore, properly aligned teeth can help with easier speech production — particularly for those who have difficulty correctly pronouncing certain words.
Types Of Treatment Options
There are a variety of options when it comes to orthodontic treatment. The most common option is traditional metal braces made up of brackets glued onto the surface of each tooth connected via archwires. Another popular option is clear aligners, which use clear plastic trays made from molds taken from impressions of your mouth that are used over an average period of 6-12 months, depending on the severity of individual cases. Lingual braces consist of small brackets glued behind each tooth; they’re not visible when you open your mouth, which makes them a great option for those who don’t want highly visible braces. Removable retainers are also available, but these are mainly used for minor corrections once treatment has finished or for maintenance if there’s a chance for relapse after treatment. Your dentist can advise what type of treatment would work best based on individual cases.
When Should I Get Orthodontic Treatment?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends children receive an initial evaluation no later than age 7. By this age, most children have lost some baby teeth and grown into adult teeth which will give enough information about how the permanent ones will grow and if any additional interventions may be required before they’re fully grown. For adults seeking orthodontic treatment, it really depends on individual cases; however, most treatments can usually still be successful regardless of age, providing you take good care of your oral hygiene during the duration course because general dentistry rules still apply even when having braces or aligners fitted!
How Much Does It Cost?
The cost typically varies from patient to patient based on variables such as the type used (metal/clear/lingual), complexity, and time factor. If you have insurance, check with your provider beforehand if any part may be covered, as some do offer partial reimbursement for specific procedures like orthodontia! That being said, it is costly, so it might be worth looking into payment plans if you are interested in getting a treatment done but are unable to afford the full amount at once.
Preparing For Your Orthodontic Visit
Once you have decided that orthodontic treatment is right for you, you must prepare for your initial consultation by researching the process ahead of time so that you know what questions to ask the doctor when you arrive at their office. During the consultation, they will take X-rays, pictures, impressions, and measurements of your mouth so that they can determine which type of appliance is best suited for your needs as well as provide a timeline for completion of treatment based on how long it takes each patient individually to move their teeth into proper position using an appliance like braces or Invisalign®️ aligners respectively. Additionally, asking about any follow-up care required after removing an appliance, such as wearing a retainer, will ensure long-term success with maintaining straight teeth afterward!
Conclusion
Orthodontic treatment is an important tool in maintaining good oral hygiene. When it comes to improving teeth and jaw alignment, orthodontics can help people avoid more severe issues and provide a cosmetic improvement. By understanding the various types of treatments, people can make the right choice for their situation. EL Cajon Dental and Orthodontics provides full-service orthodontic services with experienced orthodontists and friendly staff committed to helping patients achieve beautiful smiles. If you’re interested in learning more about how our team can help you, don’t hesitate to reach out! We offer free consultations, so there’s no risk in finding out what we can do for you. Today could be the day that sets you on the path to the perfect smile, so don’t hesitate – to contact an El Cajon, CA dental practice today!
