Brace Yourself for a Perfect Smile Makeover
How Do I Determine If I Need Orthodontics?
Only your dentist or orthodontist can tell you if West Point orthodontics are right for you. An orthodontist or dentist can propose orthodontics and build a treatment plan for you based on diagnostic tools such as a comprehensive medical and dental health history, a clinical assessment, plaster models of your teeth, and special X-rays and pictures.
You may be a candidate for orthodontic treatment if you have any of the following conditions:
- Overbite, sometimes known as “buck teeth,” occurs when the top front teeth protrude too far forward (stick out) over the lower teeth.
- Underbite – a “bulldog” appearance in which the lower teeth are too far forward or too far back.
- When the top teeth do not drop down somewhat in front of the lower teeth when biting together regularly, this is referred to as a crossbite.
- When the back teeth bite together, an open bite occurs when there is space between the biting surfaces of the front and/or side teeth.
- When the center of your upper front teeth does not line up with the center of your lower front teeth, you have a misplaced midline.
- Gaps or spaces between teeth caused by missing teeth or teeth that do not “fill up” the mouth
- Crowding occurs when there are more teeth than the dental ridge can accommodate.
What Is the Process of Orthodontic Treatment?
A variety of fixed and removable gadgets are utilized to help reposition teeth, retrain muscles, and influence jaw growth. These devices function by applying moderate pressure to the teeth and jaws. Your problem’s severity will indicate which West Point orthodontics approach is most likely to be helpful.
Among the fixed appliances are:
Braces are the most frequent fixed appliances, and they are made up of bands, wires, and/or brackets. Bands are attached to the teeth or teeth and serve as anchors for the device, whereas brackets are usually cemented to the front of the tooth. Arch wires are threaded through brackets and fastened to bands. Tightening the arch wire applies tension to the teeth, eventually repositioning them. Braces are often adjusted regularly to obtain the desired results, which can take anything from a few months to a few years. Braces today are smaller, lighter, and have significantly less metal than in the past. They are available in vibrant colors for children as well as clear forms that many adults like.
Special fixed appliances – These items are fastened to the teeth by bands and are used to control thumb sucking or tongue pushing. They should only be used as a last option because they are quite uncomfortable during meals.
Fixed space maintainers: These are used when a baby tooth is lost prematurely to keep the space open until the permanent tooth erupts. A band is fastened to the tooth next to the gap, and a wire is extended to the tooth on the other side of the gap.