Orthodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry that deals with the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. An orthodontist is a dental specialist who focuses on correcting misaligned teeth and jaws to improve the patient’s oral health, function, and aesthetics. They assist numerous people each day with fixing different dental issues that cause them hindrances. Here are some of the reasons why people visit the orthodontist:
Crooked or crowded teeth: This is one of the most common reasons why people seek orthodontic treatment. Misaligned teeth can affect the appearance of the smile, make it difficult to clean the teeth properly, and cause bite problems that can lead to tooth wear, jaw pain, and headaches.
Overbite or underbite: When the upper or lower teeth protrude too far beyond the opposite teeth, it can result in an overbite or underbite, respectively. This can cause problems with chewing, speaking, and overall oral health. Orthodontic treatment can correct these issues by repositioning the teeth and jaws.
Crossbite: When the upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth, it can cause problems with tooth wear, jaw pain, and gum disease. An orthodontist can correct this issue by moving the teeth and jaws into their proper position.
Open bite: When the upper and lower teeth do not touch when the mouth is closed, it can cause speech problems, chewing difficulties, and jaw pain. An orthodontist can treat this issue by moving the teeth and jaws into the correct position.
Braces: Many people visit the orthodontist to get braces to straighten their teeth. Braces are made of brackets and wires that apply gentle pressure to move the teeth into the desired position. There are many different types of braces available, including traditional metal braces, ceramic braces, and clear aligners.
Jaw problems: Some people may have jaw problems, such as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, that can cause pain, clicking, or popping in the jaw. An orthodontist can diagnose and treat these issues by repositioning the teeth and jaws.
Speech problems: Misaligned teeth or jaws can affect speech, causing problems with pronunciation or enunciation. An orthodontist can correct these issues by repositioning the teeth and jaws to improve speech clarity.
Self-esteem: Finally, many people visit the orthodontist to improve their self-esteem and confidence by improving the appearance of their smile. Straighter teeth and a better bite can help boost self-confidence and improve overall quality of life.
Assistance From a Dental Professional
People visit the orthodontist for a variety of reasons, including crooked or crowded teeth, overbite or underbite, crossbite, open bite, braces, jaw problems, speech problems, and self-esteem. Orthodontic treatment can improve oral health, function, and aesthetics, and can have a positive impact on overall quality of life. Taking your dental care and health seriously is something that many people take for granted. If you are experiencing any of these issues, it is recommended to visit an Oceanside, CA orthodontist from a clinic like John Redmond Orthodontics for an evaluation and treatment plan.