Braces, extractions and aligners may all be part of orthodontic treatment. These procedures can correct numerous dental issues regarding the alignment of the teeth and jaws.
What are some common questions about orthodontic treatment?
Many patients who need to see an orthodontist have questions regarding treatments. These are a few of the most frequently asked questions patients have about orthodontics.
What is an orthodontist?
Orthodontists are dental specialists who are specially trained in preventing, diagnosing and treating dental irregularities. The professionals require more extensive schooling than a typical dentist; after graduating from dental school they must complete a two- to three-year residency program in orthodontics.
What are malocclusions and what causes them?
Malocclusion, the Latin term for a bad bite, is used to describe misaligned teeth. Malocclusions are frequently inherited and can lead to conditions of extra teeth, crowding of the teeth and gaps between teeth. There are also numerous alignment issues with the face and jaw that may cause issues. Malocclusions can also happen due to accidents, pacifier or thumb sucking, and dental diseases.
What age does a patient need to be to receive treatment?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children be seen by an orthodontist by the age of seven. It is important for children to have an appointment sooner rather than later because waiting until facial growth is complete and permanent teeth have come in can make correcting some problems much more difficult.
What conditions do orthodontists usually treat?
Some of the most common orthodontic conditions that are treated are overbites and underbites, crowding of the teeth and spacing issues.
How long does treatment take?
The time of treatment depends on what correction is needed and how severe the problem is. Some conditions can be treated in a few months, while others can take years. Braces may take anywhere from one to four years to correct misaligned teeth.
How often do patients need to be seen during treatments?
How often patients need to be seen depends on which treatment they are receiving. Most patients will usually be seen less frequently during early stages of treatment and may go two to three months between treatments. Later on in the course of treatment, patients normally have appointments every six to eight weeks but may have them every two to four weeks as the treatment is close to completion.
What problems can arise without orthodontic treatment?
Misalignment and crowding of the teeth can result in a higher risk of tooth decay due to cleaning difficulties. A higher chance of decay can in turn lead to periodontal diseases that can adversely affect a patient’s overall health. Overbites and underbites may result in wearing down of the teeth.
Conclusion
Orthodontic treatment is a crucial part of dentistry. It is important that children and adults make appointments with an orthodontist to check for any problems. Patients can get treatment to improve their oral health and feel confident in their beautiful smiles again.
Request an appointment here: https://www.dentistryforwoodstock.com or call Dentistry for Woodstock at (770) 238-1437 for an appointment in our Woodstock office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Orthodontics in Woodstock, GA.
Recent Posts
Finding the right dentist for your oral health needs is an important process. While a general dentist and a family dentist offer similar services, there are significant differences between these dental specialties. Understanding these differences can help you make an informed decision that best fits your and your family's needs.A general dentist is a primary…
The term "root canal" often causes anxiety in patients. This fear is largely due to misconceptions surrounding this dental procedure. However, a root canal is an effective treatment that can relieve pain, save a natural tooth, and prevent further complications. By understanding the most common myths about root canals, patients can approach this treatment with…
General dentists' primary aim is to ensure optimal oral health, meaning the entire mouth. Therefore, they recommend various services to ensure the longevity of your natural teeth and surrounding structures. Take a look at the five preventative services we offer.Routine evaluations are recommended for all individuals, regardless of age. The American Dental Association, or ADA,…
General dentists are the primary dental professionals people visit once or twice per year for oral health care. According to the American Dental Association, or ADA, biannual appointments are necessary to protect the integrity of your oral health, regardless of age. During these appointments, the general dentist and their team perform check-ups and recommend preventative…