Orthodontics Can Help You Smile With Confidence

Orthodontic Treatment Basics

Maxillofacial surgery is not always necessary when there are problems concerning the jaw and teeth arrangement. Orthodontics deals with the shaping of the jaw, teeth, and correction of malocclusion. Severely crooked teeth, an overbite or underbite, and an unevenly shaped jaw can all be fixed by the placement of dental braces on your teeth. They are an ingenious way of improving your smile permanently.

In previous years, braces were designed and intended for younger patients, such as those in their preteen or teenage years. Now, braces can be worn by adults as well. In fact, approximately 30% of all braces wearers in America are adults. Nevertheless, it is recommended that braces are worn as early as possible, and many dentists recommend that children undergo an orthodontic examination by the time they are 7 years old.

When you first begin orthodontic treatment, your orthodontist will take several x-rays of your head, jaw, and teeth in order to determine your need. The more severe your need, the longer the treatment will last. Braces are often worn for up to two years. A retainer is worn after braces have been removed in order to maintain the corrected shape of the teeth and jaws.

Dental Braces Care

Although braces are a wise investment, they can be costly. Depending on your dental insurance and the severity of your malocclusion, braces may or may not be considered cosmetic dentistry. For this reason, it is important that you take the upmost care of your braces in order to ensure their proper function.

The first and foremost method of caring for your braces is caring for your teeth. Because braces can make it more difficult to brush your teeth daily, your orthodontist may be able to suggest certain types of toothbrushes or mouthwashes that are designed for braces wearers. This prevents the formation of cavities, which can significantly hinder the orthodontic treatment. Brushing after you consume any type of food (even a snack) is imperative to reduce the risk of dental caries. Also, it is necessary to abstain from eating certain foods that can get caught in your braces, such as gum and popcorn.

Finding an Orthodontist in Columbus

Picking a random orthodontist is never wise. If you are looking for Columbus orthodontists, Grove City Dental can help refer you to the right one. By being a patient at our office, our dentists will have access to your records and can forward them to the orthodontist who can help you the most. We value your business, and are trusted when it comes to referrals of orthodontic treatment.