What Do Orthodontists Do? Exploring Orthodontic Treatments and Their Benefits
Are you curious how orthodontic treatments can enhance your smile and dental health? Orthodontists in Surrey specialize in correcting dental malocclusions, which are misalignments of the teeth and jaws. This article will explore what they do, the treatments they offer, and the numerous benefits of undergoing orthodontic care.
What Does an Orthodontist in Surrey Do?
An orthodontist Surrey is a dental specialist who diagnoses, prevents, and treats dental and facial irregularities. Their primary goal is to align teeth and jaws, ensuring a functional bite and an aesthetically pleasing smile. They use a variety of appliances, including braces, clear aligners, and retainers, to gradually move teeth into the correct position. They work with patients of all ages, from children who need early intervention to adults seeking to improve their smile.
Common Orthodontic Treatments Available
These treatments vary depending on the patient’s needs and the case’s complexity. Some common treatments include:
- Braces: Traditional metal braces are the most well-known treatment. They consist of metal brackets attached to the teeth and connected by wires. The wires are adjusted periodically to move the teeth into their correct positions gradually.
- Clear Aligners: Clear aligners are a popular alternative to braces, especially among adults. These custom-made, removable trays are worn over the teeth, gradually shifting them into alignment. These are less noticeable than traditional braces and can be removed for eating and cleaning.
- Retainers: After completing treatment, patients often need to wear retainers to maintain the new position of their teeth. Retainers can be either removable or fixed and help prevent teeth from shifting back to their original positions.
- Palatal Expanders: For children with a narrow upper jaw, palatal expanders widen the jaw and create more space for permanent teeth. This treatment is often a precursor to braces and helps prevent overcrowding.
Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment
Undergoing treatment with an orthodontist in Surrey offers numerous benefits beyond an improved smile. Here are some key advantages:
- Improved Oral Function: Correcting a dental malocclusion can make biting, chewing, and speaking easier. Properly aligned teeth ensure the upper and lower jaws fit together correctly, reducing strain on the jaw muscles and joints.
- Enhanced Facial Symmetry: This treatment can improve the symmetry of your face and overall appearance. By aligning the teeth and jaws, an orthodontic procedure can create a more balanced and harmonious facial structure.
- Pain Relief from TMJ Disorders: Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders can cause chronic pain and discomfort in the jaw, neck, and shoulders. The treatment can ease this pain by correcting the underlying bite issues that contribute to TMJ disorders.
- Easier Oral Hygiene: Straight teeth are easier to clean, making the procedure more straightforward to maintain good oral hygiene. Properly aligned teeth reduce the risk of tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease by eliminating hard-to-reach areas where plaque and bacteria can accumulate.
- Long-Term Dental Health: Investing in treatment can have long-term benefits for your dental health. By addressing alignment issues early, you can prevent more serious dental problems, such as excessive wear on teeth, tooth loss, and even digestive issues caused by improper chewing.
Steps to Begin Orthodontic Treatment
Once you’ve decided to see a Surrey orthodontist, the process of beginning the treatment is straightforward.
- Start by scheduling a consultation with a qualified orthodontist to assess your teeth and jaw alignment.
- During this consultation, the orthodontist will develop a customized treatment plan modified to your needs.
- After discussing and agreeing on the plan, treatment can begin with applying braces, clear aligners, or other necessary appliances.
- Regular check-ups will be required to monitor progress and make any necessary adjustments.
Seeking the expertise of an orthodontist in Surrey can significantly improve your dental health and appearance. With treatments like braces and clear aligners, you can achieve a functional bite and a beautiful smile that lasts a lifetime. If you’re experiencing any of the signs mentioned in the article, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward better oral health.
