Unveiling the Artistry of Orthodontics: Crafting Perfect Smiles

In the realm of dentistry, orthodontists stand out as the architects of beautiful smiles, tirelessly working to align teeth and create a harmonious balance in oral health. Let's delve into the fascinating world of orthodontics and discover the artistry behind crafting perfect smiles.

Precision and Expertise:

Orthodontists are dental specialists who devote their expertise to diagnosing, preventing, and correcting misaligned teeth and jaws. Armed with a profound understanding of dental anatomy, they embark on a journey to bring about positive transformations in their patients' smiles.

The Power of Braces:

One of the primary tools in an orthodontist's arsenal is braces. These devices have evolved over the years, becoming sleeker and more comfortable while retaining their powerful ability to shift teeth into proper alignment. Whether it's traditional metal braces or the discreet allure of Invisalign, orthodontists carefully tailor treatment plans to meet the unique needs and preferences of each patient.

Early Intervention for Lasting Effects:

Orthodontic care isn't just about aesthetics; it's about ensuring optimal oral health. Early intervention in childhood can prevent potential issues from escalating, leading to a lifetime of benefits. Orthodontists work closely with parents to identify and address developing dental concerns, setting the stage for a lifetime of confident smiles.

Beyond Braces:

While braces are a cornerstone of orthodontic treatment, these specialists offer a range of solutions to cater to diverse dental needs. From retainers and clear aligners to jaw surgery, orthodontists employ a variety of techniques to create balanced and functional smiles.

A Personalized Approach:

No two smiles are alike, and orthodontists understand the importance of tailoring their approach to each patient. Through thorough assessments and consultations, they create personalized treatment plans that consider not only the current state of the teeth but also the individual's overall oral health goals.

The Journey to a Radiant Smile:

Embarking on orthodontic treatment is a journey, and orthodontists serve as trusted guides. Regular check-ups and adjustments ensure that the transformation progresses smoothly, ultimately leading to the unveiling of a radiant and confident smile.

In conclusion, orthodontists are not just dental professionals; they are artists sculpting smiles that radiate confidence and well-being. Through precision, expertise, and a commitment to personalized care, orthodontists play a vital role in enhancing both the aesthetics and functionality of the human smile. So, if you're dreaming of a perfect smile, consider the artistry of orthodontics – where science meets beauty.

Dreaming Through Dentistry: The Transformative World of Sleep Dentistry

For many, the dentist's chair can be a source of anxiety, but what if that chair could also be a place of tranquility, where dreams take center stage? Welcome to the realm of sleep dentistry, a transformative approach that turns dental visits into peaceful journeys and ensures a restful experience for those who may otherwise be apprehensive about dental procedures.

The Essence of Sleep Dentistry: More Than Just a Nap

Sleep dentistry, also known as sedation dentistry, extends a calming hand to individuals who experience dental anxiety, have a strong gag reflex, or require extensive dental work. Contrary to the name, it's not about putting patients to sleep entirely; rather, it offers varying levels of sedation to induce a relaxed state, making dental procedures more comfortable and stress-free.

Levels of Sedation: Tailoring the Experience to Individual Needs

Sleep dentistry provides a spectrum of sedation options, allowing dentists to tailor the experience to each patient's unique needs. Nitrous oxide, often known as "laughing gas," offers mild sedation, while oral sedatives or intravenous sedation provide deeper relaxation. The choice depends on the complexity of the procedure and the level of anxiety the patient experiences.

A Soothing Atmosphere: Crafting a Dreamlike Dental Experience

Imagine drifting into a serene state as you recline in the dentist's chair, surrounded by a calming atmosphere. Sleep dentistry creates an environment that encourages relaxation, incorporating elements like soft lighting, soothing music, and comforting surroundings to enhance the dreamlike quality of the experience.

Pain-Free Procedures: Enhancing Comfort and Minimizing Discomfort

One of the key benefits of sleep dentistry is its ability to make dental procedures virtually pain-free. By inducing a state of deep relaxation, patients are less aware of discomfort or pain during treatments. This not only ensures a more pleasant experience but also encourages individuals to prioritize their oral health without the fear of pain.

Overcoming Dental Anxiety: A Lifeline for Nervous Patients

Dental anxiety is a real and common concern that prevents many individuals from seeking timely dental care. Sleep dentistry acts as a lifeline for those with dental phobias, offering a solution that allows them to receive necessary treatments without the overwhelming fear that often accompanies a trip to the dentist.

Efficiency and Comprehensive Care: Maximizing Dental Visits

Beyond its calming effects, sleep dentistry also enhances the efficiency of dental visits. Patients are often more cooperative during procedures, allowing dentists to complete treatments more quickly and effectively. This is particularly beneficial for individuals requiring extensive dental work, as it minimizes the need for multiple appointments.

Empowering Patients: A Positive Shift in Perception

Sleep dentistry goes beyond the physical aspects of dental care; it also empowers patients by shifting their perception of dental visits. By turning the dentist's office into a place associated with relaxation and positive experiences, sleep dentistry encourages individuals to prioritize their oral health, ultimately contributing to better overall well-being.

In the world of dentistry, sleep dentistry emerges as a transformative force, turning dental visits into serene journeys and providing a solution for those grappling with anxiety. It's a pathway toward dreamlike dental experiences, where tranquility and oral health seamlessly converge, ensuring that everyone can achieve the smile they dream of, one stress-free visit at a time.

Beyond Braces: Embracing Confidence with Adult Orthodontics

The journey to a perfectly aligned smile is no longer exclusive to the realm of adolescence. In a modern era that values self-expression and individuality, adult orthodontics has emerged as a transformative ally, providing a pathway to a straighter, more confident smile. Let's explore the world of adult orthodontics and discover how it's reshaping not just teeth but also the narratives of self-assurance.

A Paradigm Shift: Breaking the Age Barrier in Orthodontics

Gone are the days when braces were associated solely with teenagers. Adult orthodontics represents a paradigm shift, acknowledging that the pursuit of a beautifully aligned smile knows no age limit. Whether for aesthetic reasons or to address functional concerns, an increasing number of adults are opting for orthodontic treatment, embracing the transformative power of a well-aligned set of teeth.

Invisible Solutions: Discreet Orthodontic Options for Grown-Ups

One of the key reasons adult orthodontics has gained popularity lies in the discreet alternatives it offers. Say farewell to the days of conspicuous metal braces; adults can now choose from a variety of nearly invisible options. Clear aligners, tooth-colored brackets, and lingual braces discreetly work their magic, allowing individuals to undergo orthodontic treatment without compromising their professional image or personal style.

Beyond Aesthetics: The Health Benefits of Adult Orthodontics

While a straighter smile undoubtedly enhances aesthetics, the benefits of adult orthodontics extend beyond appearance. Properly aligned teeth contribute to better oral health, reducing the risk of issues such as gum disease, cavities, and jaw discomfort. Adult orthodontic treatments are designed not only to create a beautiful smile but also to promote long-term oral well-being.

Tailored Solutions: Individualized Care for Every Smile

Adult orthodontics recognizes the unique needs of each patient. Orthodontists carefully tailor treatment plans to address specific concerns, whether it's closing gaps, correcting misalignments, or adjusting bite issues. The emphasis is on personalized care, ensuring that adults receive the precise orthodontic intervention needed to achieve their smile goals.

The Time Factor: Quick and Efficient Orthodontic Solutions

Adults often juggle numerous responsibilities, making time a precious commodity. Recognizing this, adult orthodontics offers solutions that are not only effective but also time-efficient. Advancements in orthodontic technology, such as accelerated orthodontics and shorter treatment times, cater to the busy lifestyles of adults, allowing them to achieve their desired results without prolonged treatment periods.

The Confidence Boost: A Life-Changing Smile Transformation

Beyond the physical changes, adult orthodontics brings about a profound psychological transformation. A straighter smile can boost confidence, improve self-esteem, and positively impact various aspects of an individual's life, from personal relationships to professional endeavors. The journey to a more confident, radiant smile is not just about aligning teeth; it's about rewriting the narrative of self-assurance.

In the realm of adult orthodontics, age is no longer a barrier to achieving the smile of your dreams. With discreet options, personalized care, and efficient treatment plans, adults can embark on a transformative journey that goes beyond aesthetics, contributing to improved oral health and a newfound sense of confidence. So, if you've ever considered enhancing your smile, know that adult orthodontics is here to redefine what's possible and help you embrace the full potential of your confident, radiant grin.

Clear Aligners vs Braces: Which is Better?

When it comes to straightening your teeth, you have a few options to choose from. Two of the most popular options are traditional braces and clear aligners. Here's a closer look at each option to help you decide which one is right for you:

Braces:

Traditional braces consist of brackets and wires that are attached to your teeth. The wires are tightened periodically to gradually shift your teeth into the desired position. Braces are effective for treating a wide range of dental issues, including severe misalignment, crowding, and bite problems. They are also the most affordable option for orthodontic treatment.

Clear Aligners:

Clear aligners are a series of clear plastic trays that are custom-fitted to your teeth. You wear each tray for a few weeks, then switch to the next one in the series. Over time, the trays gradually shift your teeth into the desired position. Clear aligners are a good option for mild to moderate dental issues, such as mild crowding or spacing. They are also popular because they are nearly invisible and can be removed for eating and brushing.

So which option is better? It depends on your specific dental needs and personal preferences. Braces are a good choice for more severe dental issues and may be more effective in some cases. Clear aligners are a good choice for mild to moderate issues and are popular for their nearly invisible appearance and easy removability.

Ultimately, the best way to determine which option is right for you is to schedule a consultation with an orthodontist. They can evaluate your dental needs and help you choose the best treatment option for your unique situation. With the right treatment, you can achieve a straight, healthy smile and enjoy the benefits of improved oral health and self-confidence.

 

How to Manage Discomfort During Orthodontic Treatment

Orthodontic treatment can be a bit uncomfortable at times, especially during the first few days after getting braces or clear aligners. Here are some tips for managing discomfort during orthodontic treatment:

1. Eat soft foods: When you first get braces or clear aligners, your teeth may be sore for a few days. Stick to soft foods like mashed potatoes, soup, and yogurt until the soreness subsides.
2. Use orthodontic wax: If your braces are rubbing against the inside of your cheeks or lips, apply some orthodontic wax to the brackets to help alleviate the discomfort.
3. Take over-the-counter pain relievers: If you're experiencing significant discomfort, you can take over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Be sure to follow the instructions on the label.
4. Rinse with saltwater: Swishing with saltwater can help relieve soreness and promote healing. Mix 1 teaspoon of salt with 8 ounces of warm water and swish for 30 seconds, then spit it out.
5. Use a warm compress: If you're experiencing jaw soreness, a warm compress can help relieve the discomfort. Apply a warm, damp cloth to your jaw for 20 minutes at a time.
6. Follow your orthodontist's instructions: Your orthodontist will give you specific instructions on how to care for your braces or clear aligners. Following these instructions closely can help minimize discomfort and ensure a successful treatment outcome.

It's normal to experience some discomfort during orthodontic treatment, but these tips can help make the process more manageable. Remember to be patient, take good care of your teeth and braces, and communicate with your orthodontist if you're experiencing significant discomfort. With time and proper care, you'll have a beautiful, healthy smile to show for it.

Fixing crowded and crooked teeth with orthodontics

Correcting problems with crowded and crooked teeth not only gives you a better smile, it also leads to a healthier mouth.

Malocclusion, also known as “bad bite”, involves teeth that are crowded or crooked.

Sometimes, the upper and lower jaws may not meet properly and, although the teeth may appear straight, the individual may have an uneven bite.

Problems such as protruding, crowded or irregularly spaced teeth may be inherited. But thumb-sucking, losing teeth prematurely and accidents also can lead to these conditions.

As well as spoiling your smile, crooked and crowded teeth make cleaning the mouth difficult. This can lead to tooth decay, gum disease and possibly tooth loss.

A bad bite can also interfere with chewing and speaking, cause abnormal wear to tooth enamel and lead to problems with the jaws.

Orthodontic treatment can help correcting these problems giving you a better smile but, more importantly, creating a healthier mouth.

Your dentist will advise you on how orthodontic treatment could help you.

The Process of Getting Braces: What to Expect

If you are considering orthodontic treatment to straighten your teeth or improve your bite, getting braces is a common and effective option. Here's what you can expect during the process of getting braces:

1. Consultation - The first step is to schedule a consultation with an orthodontist. During this visit, the orthodontist will evaluate your dental needs, discuss treatment options, and answer any questions you may have.

2. Preparation - Once you've decided to get braces, the orthodontist will take x-rays, photos, and impressions of your teeth to create a customized treatment plan.

3. Placement - At the next appointment, the braces will be placed on your teeth using a special adhesive. The process may take a few hours, and you may experience some discomfort or soreness afterward.

4. Adjustments - You will need to visit the orthodontist regularly for adjustments to the braces. The orthodontist will tighten the wires and make any necessary changes to keep the teeth moving in the right direction.

5. Oral Hygiene - Proper oral hygiene is critical when wearing braces. You will need to brush and floss regularly to prevent tooth decay and gum disease.

6. Diet - Certain foods, such as hard or sticky candy, should be avoided while wearing braces. The orthodontist will provide you with a list of foods to avoid and tips for eating with braces.

7. Completion - Once the teeth have moved into the correct position, the braces will be removed. You may need to wear a retainer to maintain the new position of your teeth.

Getting braces is a process that requires patience and commitment. With proper care and attention, the results can be a lifetime of healthy, beautiful smiles. If you have any questions or concerns about the process, don't hesitate to reach out to your orthodontist for guidance and support.

Clear aligners and jaw pain: what's the connection?

Clear aligners are a popular orthodontic treatment for straightening teeth, but some patients may experience jaw pain during the treatment process. While this can be concerning, it's important to understand the connection between clear aligners and jaw pain.

Clear aligners work by applying gentle, continuous pressure to shift teeth into their desired position. This pressure can also affect the jaw muscles and joints, especially during the first few days of wearing a new aligner. Some patients may experience discomfort or even jaw pain during this initial adjustment period.

In most cases, this discomfort is temporary and should subside after a few days as your jaw and muscles adapt to the aligner. It's important to follow your orthodontist's instructions and wear your aligners for the recommended amount of time each day to ensure that your treatment stays on track.

However, if the jaw pain persists or becomes more severe, it's important to speak with your orthodontist. They may recommend adjustments to your aligner or suggest additional treatment options, such as physical therapy or pain management techniques.

In summary, some patients may experience jaw pain during clear aligner treatment due to the pressure that aligners place on the teeth and surrounding jaw muscles and joints. While discomfort is normal, severe or persistent jaw pain should be addressed by your orthodontist to ensure that your treatment is progressing as it should.

What Happens After Orthodontic Treatment is Complete?

Congratulations! You've completed your orthodontic treatment and now have a beautiful, straight smile. But what happens next? Here are some things to keep in mind after your braces or aligners come off:

• Retainers: Your orthodontist will likely recommend wearing a retainer to maintain the position of your teeth. Retainers can be either removable or fixed, and your orthodontist will advise you on how often and how long to wear it.
  
  
• Oral hygiene: Now that your teeth are straight, it's important to maintain good oral hygiene habits to keep them healthy. Brush twice a day, floss daily, and schedule regular dental cleanings.
  
  
• Diet: During your orthodontic treatment, you likely had to avoid certain foods that could damage your braces or aligners. Now that treatment is complete, you may be able to enjoy these foods again, but it's important to continue to eat a balanced diet to maintain good oral health.
  
  
• Follow-up appointments: Your orthodontist will want to see you for follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and ensure that your teeth remain in their new position.
  
  
• Confidence: One of the most significant benefits of orthodontic treatment is the boost in confidence that comes with a straight, beautiful smile. Enjoy your newfound confidence and smile proudly!

After your orthodontic treatment is complete, it's essential to wear your retainer, maintain good oral hygiene habits, watch your diet, attend follow-up appointments, and enjoy your new smile with confidence.

The Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment

Orthodontic treatment involves the use of appliances like braces, clear aligners, and retainers to correct misaligned teeth and jaws. While many people associate orthodontic treatment with aesthetic improvements, there are many benefits beyond simply achieving a straighter smile.

One of the primary benefits of orthodontic treatment is improved oral health. When teeth are crooked or misaligned, it can be difficult to properly clean them, leading to a higher risk of cavities, gum disease, and other oral health problems. Orthodontic treatment helps to straighten teeth and realign the bite, making it easier to clean teeth effectively and reducing the risk of these oral health issues.

Orthodontic treatment can also improve speech and chewing abilities. Misaligned teeth can cause speech impediments or difficulties with chewing and biting, which can impact a person's quality of life. By correcting the alignment of the teeth and jaw, orthodontic treatment can improve these functions and make daily activities easier and more comfortable.

Another benefit of orthodontic treatment is increased self-confidence. A straighter smile can improve a person's appearance and boost their self-esteem, which can have a positive impact on their personal and professional relationships.

Orthodontic treatment can also prevent future dental problems. By correcting misalignments early on, orthodontic treatment can prevent more serious dental issues from developing later in life. For example, correcting a misaligned bite can reduce the risk of developing TMJ disorders, which can cause chronic pain and discomfort.

Overall, orthodontic treatment offers a range of benefits beyond just improving the appearance of the teeth. From improved oral health to increased self-confidence and more efficient chewing and speaking abilities, orthodontic treatment can have a positive impact on a person's life in many ways. If you are considering orthodontic treatment, talk to your dentist or orthodontist to learn more about how it can benefit you.

Invisalign: The Clear Choice for Straighter Teeth

Invisalign is a popular alternative to traditional metal braces for those seeking a straighter smile. This clear aligner system uses a series of custom-made clear aligners to gradually shift teeth into the desired position.

One of the main advantages of Invisalign is its nearly invisible appearance, making it an ideal option for those who want to straighten their teeth without the noticeable look of metal braces. The aligners are made from a clear, BPA-free plastic that fits snugly over your teeth.

In addition to their discreet appearance, Invisalign aligners are also removable, which allows for more flexibility in eating, drinking, and cleaning your teeth. However, it's important to wear the aligners for the recommended 22 hours per day to achieve optimal results.

The Invisalign treatment process begins with a consultation with an experienced orthodontist who will evaluate your teeth and create a custom treatment plan. The orthodontist will take impressions of your teeth and use computer imaging technology to create a 3D model of your smile. From there, a series of aligners will be created specifically for your teeth.

Every few weeks, you will switch to a new set of aligners that will gradually shift your teeth into the desired position. While the length of treatment varies depending on the individual, most Invisalign treatments take between 12-18 months.

Overall, Invisalign is a convenient and effective option for those seeking a discreet way to straighten their teeth. With the ability to remove the aligners for eating and cleaning, and their nearly invisible appearance, Invisalign allows you to achieve a straighter, healthier, and more confident smile with minimal disruption to your daily life.

Adult Orthodontics: Improving Your Smile at Any Age

Adult orthodontics is becoming increasingly popular as more and more adults are seeking to improve the appearance and function of their teeth. While many people believe that orthodontic treatment is only for children and teenagers, it's never too late to improve your smile.

Adult orthodontics can address a variety of issues, including crowded or crooked teeth, overbites, underbites, and gaps between teeth. There are several options for adults who want to straighten their teeth, including traditional metal braces, clear braces, and clear aligners.

While traditional metal braces are still a popular choice, many adults prefer clear braces or aligners because they are less noticeable and more comfortable to wear. Clear braces work in the same way as traditional braces but are made of a clear material that blends in with your teeth. Clear aligners are custom-made to fit your teeth and gradually move them into the desired position.

In addition to improving the appearance of your smile, orthodontic treatment can also improve your oral health. Straight teeth are easier to clean, which can help prevent tooth decay and gum disease.

If you're considering adult orthodontic treatment, it's important to find an experienced orthodontist who can assess your individual needs and recommend the best course of treatment for you. With the wide range of options available, you can achieve a straighter, healthier, and more confident smile at any age.

Living with Braces

While modern braces can be comfortable and inconspicuous, there are some extra steps you can take in your central hygiene to look after them better.

Firstly, you need to continue brushing your teeth regularly – your dentist will show you the best approach.

You should also continue flossing daily and making regular visits to the dentist.

When you wear braces, it’s especially useful to limit any snacks between meals.

There are also some foods that your dentist may advise you to avoid such as nuts, popcorn, hard candy, chewing gum or caramel.

Some of these may interfere with braces or accidentally bend the wires.

When you wear braces, you can still enjoy sports and other leisure activities.

Your dentist may recommend a protective mouth guard to cut any risk of injury to the mouth or jaw.

When you follow good oral hygiene practices, you can continue to wear braces comfortably while making a big difference to your smile and your dental health.

Different types of dental braces

Though many people still picture a “mouthful of metal” when they think of braces, there are now many more options available.

Dental braces work by applying pressure to the teeth so that they move gradually into a new position.

The pressure usually comes from a metal wire attached to tiny brackets placed on each tooth.

These brackets are what used to create the “metal mouth”.

However modern brackets are much smaller and are glued on the front of each tooth.

Added pressure is applied to the teeth using rubber bands called ligatures.

They can be made to look more attractive using different colors or gimmicks.

In addition to the much-improved traditional braces, there are now many more options:

• Mini Braces: Smaller than traditional braces
• Clear Braces: Porcelain braces with tooth-colored brackets
• Lingual Braces: Placed behind the teeth to be less noticeable
• Removable Braces: Similar to mouthguards and made of clear plastic

Whichever types of braces you choose, they all work in the same way and help you have straighter teeth which leads to better dental health and a great smile.

How braces look good

Braces are orthodontic appliances that can help straighten out crooked and crowded teeth.

As well as making you look better, they can help improve your dental health.

Many people have been put off wearing them because of how they look but modern braces can be very inconspicuous.

One way of making them inconspicuous is by having the brackets – the part that attaches to each tooth – fixed to the back of the tooth.

The brackets can be also be made in many different materials such as metal, ceramic or plastic so they can be more attractive or less visible.

They can also be designed to appear less noticeable – say be being clear or tooth-colored.

You can also choose to have them in virtually any color. You can even have them gold-plated or glowing in the dark.

Some people like to have their braces shaped in as something distinctive such as a heart or a football.

What an orthodontist can do for you

Orthodontic treatment is about straightening out crooked and crowded teeth and may use special appliances such as braces.

While most dentists can deal with minor orthodontic problems, they will often refer patients to an orthodontist for more specialist care.

Orthodontists are dentists with additional training and they specialize in the treatment of dental and facial irregularities.

One of the key aspects of orthodontics is straightening teeth and correcting jaw alignment.

This can be done through braces, corrective procedures and other ‘appliances’.

There are two types of braces:

• Removable: The patient can take these out of their mouth at any time
• Fixed Braces: These are worn all the time and have to be removed by a dentist

The length of time a person needs to wear braces varies depending on the condition but most people wear braces for between one and three years.

After the braces are no longer needed, the person usually need to wear a ‘retainer’ for some time that holds teeth in their new position.

Modern braces are much more comfortable than ever and usually require fewer adjustments than older apparatus.

Myths about orthodontists

Here is the truth on some common myths about orthodontists

Myth – Any dentist can straighten my teeth.
Truth – An orthodontist is a specialist at straightening teeth with two or three years of additional training after dental school.
They usually see hundreds of orthodontic patients a year where some family dentists may see only a handful.

Myth – Only children wear braces
Truth – Around 20% of orthodontic patients are adults

Myth – You only need to see an orthodontist for very complex cases.
Truth – Orthodontists have wide experience and deal with all types of orthodontic issue. However, their wide experience means they know exactly what to do in the most complex cases.

Myth – Seeing an orthodontist is more expensive than going to a general dentists for orthodontic treatment.
Truth – They are usually doing different work. An orthodontist offers value as an expert, highly experienced professional with specific training in this field.

Myth – Braces are painful and take years to work
Fact – Like a new pair of shoes, braces are perfectly comfortable after an initial ‘breaking in’ or adjustment period. Braces can get results after just a few months.

Myth – Braces are ugly and embarrassing in business settings.
Truth – Today braces can be made from clear plastic and can be nearly invisible. They can also be mounted on the back side of the teeth so that they are not visible.

Mothers Like Braces Better

The vast majority of modern mothers believe braces today are much cooler than when they were young.

In a study for the American Association of Orthodontists, 86 percent of mothers said braces are cooler today than when they were kids and 69% said wearing braces makes their children feel cool.

The vast majority – 81 percent – said their children’s experience with orthodontic treatment was either positive or extremely positive.

One of the factors making braces better today is the range of different color options available so that children can choose the look they want.

This makes the kids feel better about their orthodontic treatment.

Even though the mothers feel braces are cooler today, most – 78 percent – of those who had braces theselves as a child feel it was a great investment by their parents.

Most feel comfortable about visits to the orthodontist and 81 percent rated their child’s experience of visiting the orthodontist as positive or extremely positive.

Entertaining video games and music help children enjoy their visits to the orthodontist while computer software that predicts how they will look after treatment keeps them motivated.

Five ways an orthodontist could help you and your children

Orthodontists are specially-trained dentists who can give you a better smile.

They do this by bringing the teeth, jaw bones and facial profile into proper alignment.

Here are five ways they could help you or your family:

• Straightening your teeth to cut the risk of decay and gum disease
• Enhancing your appearance to boost your self-esteem
• Correcting protruding or misaligned teeth to get rid of speech problems
• Treating jaw joint difficulties known as TMJ
• Correcting jaw problems

An orthodontist will give you a full oral examination looking not just at the teeth but also at surrounding structures, jaw joints, facial aesthetics, muscular functions and speech patterns.

There are several options after this examination.

Sometimes – for example in younger children – it is too soon to do anything so they might advise coming back in a few months.

As the majority of a child’s facial growth happens before age 10, early treatment can deliver results without needing to have teeth extracted and may mean less time with braces.

When most of the adult teeth have erupted, it is possible to re-align the teeth into the desired position.

Although you get the best results by going to see an orthodontist as early as possible they can help people of any age.

Why Straighten Your Teeth?

If you don’t have straight teeth, you might wonder if you need to do anything about it.

Straight teeth have psychological and physiological benefits.

Straight teeth can help you bite, chew and speak better. They also contribute to healthy teeth and gums.

Properly aligned teeth and jaws may also alleviate or prevent physical health problems.

Having straight teeth enhances your smile and makes you look better.

An attractive smile enhances your self-esteem, self-confidence and self-image.

Orthodontic treatment can improve your appearance by bringing teeth, lips and face into proportion.

It can therefore be a step towards greater social and career success and can help you enjoy life more.

Straight teeth therefore work better and make you look better.

People with beautiful smiles therefore have a lot to be happy about.