Orthodontists: Straightening Your Crooked Teeth
Recent research revealed that people with straight teeth are smarter and more successful than those having misaligned or crooked teeth. Furthermore, a survey found that most people notice ‘teeth alignment’ about a person’s smile, which indicates why it may be difficult to smile with confidence when someone has crooked teeth.
Fortunately, investing in orthodontic treatment can make your smile more attractive and pay off big by developing self-confidence in people with crooked teeth. However, before delving into the details of how n orthodontic specialist correct crooked teeth, it’s better to understand what cause crooked teeth.
Causes of Crooked Teeth
Scientifically referred to as malocclusion, crooked teeth not only make your smile unattractive but also cause several oral health issues. Crooked teeth usually become evident around age 7; it is better to identify malocclusion and go for the treatment early to prevent severe dental issues that may arise later.
This usually happens when a child’s jaw doesn’t have enough space for the newly erupting tooth. As a result, the emerging teeth will push baby teeth and throw off the bite. Besides this, thumb sucking can also cause crooked teeth.
A thumb exerts pressure on the teeth and jaws lead to malocclusion referred to as ‘open bite.’ It is where the upper and lower teeth do not meet when you close your mouth. Premature loss of baby teeth due to injury or decay can also cause crooked teeth.
Not to mention, orthodontic treatment can make a great difference to your smile. However, it may take years, depends on your condition. Now that you know the common causes of crowded teeth, the next you need to know is how orthodontists fix crooked teeth.
Treatment of Crooked Teeth
As mentioned earlier, crooked teeth can be straightened with orthodontic treatment. It is important to mention here that orthodontists are the dental specialists who deal with the specific problems associated with your jaw movement, teeth alignments, and craniofacial development.
These medical professionals use appliances, such as braces, which apply gentle pressure to your teeth for better alignment. If the problem is identified at an early age, an orthodontic specialist will use other appliances like a palatal expander, which creates more space for the emerging teeth.
When it comes to adults, there are several types of appliances designed and used for them. You probably have heard about Invisalign clean aligners; these braces provide the patients with crooked teeth with a more discreet form of orthodontic treatment.
The treatment time for crooked teeth can vary but generally completed within 6-months to 3-years. However, once you have received the initial treatment, you will have to wear retainers later. This appliance helps hold your teeth in new positions and prevent them from maneuvering into their old position. Therefore, if you don’t want your effort and money to go wasted, it’s crucial to wear retainers after receiving your treatment.
Today, there are different yet effective options available for orthodontic treatment, including lingual braces, clear braces, conventional braces, removable aligners, clear aligners, and more. However, invisible braces are one of the most common options for orthodontic treatment.
The Bottom Line
Keep in mind that correcting the alignment of your teeth not only improves the bite but also optimizes your teeth functioning. Furthermore, it allows easier flossing and brushing, enabling you to keep your teeth healthy. If you want to get the best results from your orthodontic treatment, consult NYC Dental Orthodontics to correct your crooked teeth.