Orthodontics is a specialised field within dentistry and dentofacial orthopedics. To become a specialist, an orthodontist must first train to be a dentist, then complete additional post graduate training in orthodontic techniques and patient management.
They can correct crooked teeth and gaps, as well as severe misalignments of the jaws that can lead to problems chewing, speech or keeping your mouth clean. They also use devices like dental braces, headgear and facemasks to further encourage alignment.
Orthodontic Treatment
Orthodontist tallahassee fl treatment corrects misaligned teeth and jaws to improve both the appearance of your smile and the way it functions. A well-aligned bite makes chewing and swallowing more comfortable, while also reducing the risk of tooth decay, gum disease and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain.
Crooked or overcrowded teeth are harder to clean, increasing the likelihood of plaque build-up and gum disease. Straightening these teeth allows for more effective brushing and flossing, lowering your risk of these dental problems.
Some orthodontic issues require additional care, such as removing one or more teeth or having jaw surgery (orthognathic surgery). In these cases, your orthodontist will work with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon to ensure the best results. Often, early orthodontic consultations can help reduce the need for these more serious procedures, and may even make them unnecessary. Your orthodontist will discuss the options available to you during your initial consultation. They will take X-rays, photographs and digital scans of your teeth to diagnose the condition and prepare a treatment plan.
Dental Braces
A common treatment option for crooked teeth and a bad bite, braces are designed to apply constant pressure over time, encouraging the bone to remodel itself by shifting the position of your teeth. The end result is a smile that is both functional and beautiful, eliminating the need for dentures or extractions later in life.
Orthodontic braces consist of small metal brackets, which the orthodontist tallahassee fl bonds to your teeth using a safe type of bonding glue. These brackets are then attached to an arch wire, which helps guide your teeth into their correct positions.
The arch wire is connected to the brackets by means of tiny elastic bands, called ligatures, which can be made from clear or colored material (for example, latex) depending on patient preference. These little bands help to exert pressure on your teeth as they move, and need to be replaced frequently as they lose elasticity. A specialized type of band, known as a facebow, can be added to your braces to move your upper molars back to make space for crowded teeth or address a jaw imbalance.
Invisalign
The treatment involves wearing clear aligners that gradually shift your teeth into the desired position. It addresses a variety of issues including overcrowding, gapped teeth, and bite problems such as an overbite (where the upper teeth project further than or cover the lower teeth) and an underbite (where the lower teeth extend further than the upper teeth).
Invisalign is more comfortable to wear than traditional metal braces, especially for adults. The aligners are made of clear medical-grade thermoplastic polymers and are thicker than a mouthguard, so they won’t cut or irritate the gums like metal braces can.
They are also more discreet than metal braces, so they won’t draw attention to your smile. Plus, the removable trays make it easy to maintain good oral hygiene habits by brushing and flossing before and after you wear them. However, they do need to be worn regularly to achieve the best results. An orthodontist will oversee your Invisalign treatment, ensuring that your teeth move properly and that you’re getting the most out of it.
Jaw Surgery
Surgically correcting misaligned jaws can alleviate pain, improve chewing and speaking abilities and enhance facial appearance. Corrective jaw surgery is performed while you are under general anesthesia in a hospital, ambulatory surgery center or oral and maxillofacial surgeon’s office. The procedure generally takes one to several hours.
During the operation, your orthodontist tallahassee fl separates and repositions the jaw to align it properly. Depending on your specific needs, bone may be added, reshaped or removed. Tiny screws and metal plates are often used to hold the jaw in place during healing.
During recovery, swelling, stiffness and discomfort are normal and will resolve over time. To help reduce these symptoms, we recommend following a soft-food diet, taking pain medications as needed and keeping your follow-up appointments. We will also provide you with a splint and instructions for mouth care to promote proper healing.
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