Are you wondering what an orthodontist can do for you? Not sure if it’s the right fit for your dental needs? Well, there’s good news — orthodontists have a wide range of specializations that make them perfectly equipped to help with alignment or bite problems. They are able to fix crooked teeth and can correct jaw issues, such as underbites, overbites, crossbites, and open bites.
Whether you experience pain due to overcrowding in your mouth, want straight teeth and a better smile, or are curious if you need to have an orthodontic procedure performed — we answer some questions and provide helpful information about orthodontic treatments.
Problems That Orthodontic Treatments Can Address
Most patients think of just braces when it comes to orthodontist visits. While orthodontists like the professionals at Bay Area Orthodontics frequently offer braces to help straighten teeth, they are capable of much more than that. Orthodontic treatment can also fix problems with the alignment of your jaw and bite, among other issues. Here is a list of some common problems that orthodontists can fix.
Overcrowding
Braces and expanders have long been the classic go-to solution for fixing misalignment and overcrowding of teeth, mainly when a patient’s jaw isn’t large enough to accommodate their teeth.
With the close monitoring of an experienced orthodontist, this approach can effectively guide teeth into a more comfortable and beneficial position over time.
The key to success lies in taking accurate measurements of the problem areas throughout treatment; this allows the doctor to make adjustments if necessary and keep tabs on progress, ensuring that the final result will be as desirable as possible.
Underbites and Overbites
Underbites and overbites — also known as malocclusions — are common orthodontic issues that orthodontists can assess and treat.
An underbite is when the lower jaw protrudes in front of the upper jaw, causing an incorrect bite alignment. In contrast, in the case of an overbite, the upper jaw protrudes in front, making it difficult to close the mouth properly.
Orthodontists may use braces or other orthodontic appliances to correct the issue, depending on which problem is present and its severity.
Crossbites
Crossbites can cause more than just aesthetic concerns. In people with a crossbite, the imbalance in their bite can make it difficult to speak and eat properly. This misalignment also impacts chewing since the teeth do not meet simultaneously, which will cause problems in the mastication process.
Due to the potential severity of this problem, it is best to seek treatment from an orthodontic specialist.
Braces, expanders, and other devices adjust the bite to prevent further pain and damage, allowing patients to achieve an aligned smile and improved oral health.
Open Bites
Open bites can cause various complex issues with dental health, especially concerning speaking and eating. Not only might you have trouble pronouncing certain words and properly grinding your food, but the long-term implications could also be severe damage to your teeth if left unchecked.
An orthodontist can help close open bites and improve dental health.
Jaw Pain and Uncomfortable Bite
Sometimes orthodontists are consulted for jaw pain or an uncomfortable bite. Orthodontic treatments can help you feel more comfortable when chewing and speaking and correct the underlying orthodontic issue that is causing the issue.
Orthodontists use braces, expanders, and other orthodontic appliances to help adjust the alignment of your jaw and teeth, allowing you to experience a much more comfortable bite.
Benefits of Orthodontic Treatments
Orthodontic treatments can genuinely make a difference in a person’s life, both aesthetically and throughout daily life. The benefits of such treatments go beyond straighter teeth and bite alignment; they give patients better confidence and improved oral health.
Braces provide better jaw support, improved chewing efficiency, healthier gums and teeth, decreased risk of neck and TMJ disorders, and general improvements to health. Investing in an orthodontic treatment allows for greater self-esteem and easier contact with people around you.
Final Thoughts
There are many things that an orthodontist can help you with — both cosmetic- and health-related. While it may seem like a big decision, seeking experienced professional services can save you time and hassle in the long run.
If you think that you or your child might benefit from an orthodontic treatment, Bay Area Orthodontics is here to help. Our orthodontist and the rest of the team will be able to assess your orthodontic needs and provide you with the most suitable treatment plan. Contact us today to learn how orthodontics can improve your smile’s aesthetics and give you the confidence boost you need!