Fixing Tooth & Jaw Alignment Issues
No matter how old you are, it is in your best interest to have crooked teeth, poor jaw alignment, and other orthodontic issues fixed.
Misaligned teeth can be more difficult to clean in between, leading to a variety of oral health issues. Because crowded and crooked teeth are harder to keep clean, there is a greater likelihood that you will develop cavities and gum disease.
Not only can your oral health suffer due to poor tooth alignment, but misalignments of the teeth an jaw can cause teeth to wear down. A poorly aligned jaw can also lead to clenching and grinding causing the muscles of the head and neck to become overworked, resulting in headaches, migraines, and jaw joint pain.
The goal of orthodontics is the same for children, teenagers or adults – to straighten teeth so they are healthier, look better and work more effectively.
What Can Be Treated With Orthodontics?
Almost anyone with a jaw or tooth misalignment can benefit from orthodontics, but some people need treatment more than others. Many people seek orthodontic treatment because they want to improve the appearance of their smile and preserve their oral health.
For many patients, orthodontics can:
- Straightening crooked teeth
- Fix bite problems, like an overbite or an underbite
- Alleviate overcrowding
- Bring teeth that are too far apart closer together
- Align the jaw
- Reshape and restructure the lips, jaw or face
Traditional Braces
Braces straighten teeth and give patients an aligned jaw. They consist of wires and brackets, usually made from metal or ceramic.
Brackets will be cemented to each tooth, then a wire will be used to connect the brackets. This wire is tightened to exert continuous but gentle pressure on the teeth to gradually shift them until they are properly aligned. All of our orthodontic treatments offered at Ocean Dental are conducted by certified general dentists.
Invisalign
Invisalign clear aligners can gradually straighten your teeth using clear, removable plastic aligners. Invisalign is suitable for both adults and teens.