Straighter Teeth Can Improve Oral Health
It is used to correct a malocclusion (bad bite), a condition caused by crowded, crooked or protruding teeth; teeth that are out of alignment; or jaws that do not meet properly. Malocclusion may be inherited, or it may be the result of thumb sucking, the premature loss of teeth or an accident.
Correcting the problem can result in better oral health because crooked and crowded teeth can make daily oral hygiene difficult. Over time, this may lead to tooth decay, periodontal disease and possibly tooth loss. An improper bite can interfere with chewing and speaking, cause abnormal wear to tooth enamel and lead to problems with the jaws.
Orthodontic treatment often is more comfortable and takes less time than it did years ago. Braces can be as inconspicuous as the patient desires. Brackets (the part of the braces that attach to each tooth) are smaller. Some brackets are attached to the back of the teeth, making them less noticeable.
Two types of braces are available: fixed, which are worn all of the time and can be removed only by the dentist, and removable, which the patient can take out of his or her mouth. The dentist selects the type based on the patient’s treatment needs and how well he or she will follow instructions regarding care and oral hygiene.
Although treatment plans are customized for each patient, most people wear their braces for one to three years depending on the conditions that need correcting. This is followed by a period of wearing a retainer that holds the teeth in their new positions. Although a little discomfort is expected during treatment, today’s braces are more comfortable than ever before. Newer materials apply a constant, gentle force to move teeth and usually require fewer adjustments.
Invisalign is one of the choice patients has to correct their teeth. Invisalign uses clear aligners they are virtually invisible. No one may even notice that you’re wearing them, making Invisalign a seamless fit with your lifestyle. Invisalign aligners are removable. For the best results and a timely outcome, aligners should be worn for 20 to 22 hours per day. However, unlike with braces, you have the flexibility to remove your aligners to eat and drink what you want during treatment. And you can also remove the aligners to brush and floss as you normally would, for fresh breath and good oral hygiene. There are no metal brackets or wires that could cause irritation to your mouth, an advantage over traditional braces. Plus, since your office visits during treatment don’t involve metal or wire adjustments, you’ll likely spend less time in the doctor’s chair. Invisalign allows you to view your virtual results and treatment plan before you start so you can see how your straight teeth will look when your treatment is complete. Instead of imagining how much better it can be, you’ll be able to see it for yourself.
Good oral hygiene is especially important for people wearing braces. Brushing regularly, as directed by the dentist, flossing daily and scheduling dental visits can help keep teeth healthy.
Regular dental check-ups continue to be the front line in detection of other problems in the body.
Dr. Sadineni is an AACD sustaining member cosmetic dentist practicing at Dublin Metro Dental Group, Dublin, Ohio. For patient consultations, contact the doctor at (614) 766-5600.
About the author Dr. Aparna Sadineni:
Dr. Sadineni takes care to understand your comfort zone when it comes to dental treatments. She has over 15 years of experience in Cosmetic, General & Implant Dentistry and completed more than 1,800 hours of continuing dental education, including 950 hours dedicated to hands-on skills and techniques.
Dr. Sadineni received Master’s in Academy of General Dentistry and also a sustaining member of American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. She attended nationally recognized 3 years Post-Graduate Continuing Education Program in Contemporary Esthetic Dentistry at the University of Minnesota, where she received hands on training in advanced cosmetic techniques. She completed one year Implant Maxi course from New York University School of Dentistry.
Dr. Sadineni is trained to use the most technologically advanced dental equipment – helping to eliminate the pain and discomfort associated with traditional dentistry.
For more information, please visit www.DublinMetroDental.com or call (614) 766-5600
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