Many people believe that orthodontic treatment is limited to having a metal brace for a number a months and then having straighter teeth by the time these months are up. However, orthodontic treatment can be used to treat a number of other tooth and jaw-related issues as well as have an affect on your overall lifestyle and health. Take a look at some of the ways in which orthodontics can help….
Issues addressed by orthodontic treatment include:
- Misaligned teeth (the most common usage).
- Crowded teeth.
- Overbites and underbites.
- Jaw pain/temproomandibular joint problems.
- Dental hygeine.
- Facial structure.
A healthier mouth
Overbites, underbites, crowded and misaligned teeth can all be the cause of serious dental hygiene issues. This is because when there are unnatural gaps sitting vacantly in your mouth, they become the perfect breeding ground for unwanted bacteria in the shape of plaque and tartar, which can later lead to gum disease if left untreated. These awkward gaps also make it difficult to reach tooth surfaces properly which leaves your susepcible to cavities.
What you might not think about is….
That misaligned teeth can change facial structure. Teeth are responsible for your face not ‘sagging’ out of position, which is why replacing missing teeth is so essential – you can read more about this here). With orthodontics and aesthetics, most patients think about the way their visible teeth look to others when they smile but non-visible teeth can be the cause of changes to the way your face appears, as there maybe teeth sitting in the wrong areas of your mouth, leaving vacant areas elsewhere.
Teeth in the wrong place will also make it difficult to break down certain foods which in turn can cause digestion problems if left untreated for many many years. Your speech can also become affected as well as the way your breathe – there are more and more links between misaligned and crowded teeth and jaw problems and sleep apnoea.
Bespoke treatment
Orthodontic treatment with our Norwich orthodontists is bespoke which means every treatment decision that is made has your exact tooth structure and requirements in mind. This makes for an effective, successful, safe and comfortable treatment period.
If you would like to arrange a consultation regarding orthodontic treatment, please do not hesitate to contact us.