ORTHODONTICS AT VALLEY DENTAL
Your smile is so important for your confidence and self-image. Unfortunately, there are certain dental conditions that can negatively impact the appearance of your smile while reducing the functionality of your bite. Orthodontics is a specialized type of dentistry that provides treatment for various dentition ailments such as overbite, cross bite, malocclusion and other conditions.
At Valley Dental, we provide orthodontic treatments that can improve the appearance of your smile while also improving oral function. You deserve to love your smile! Here’s what you need to know about orthodontic treatment at Valley Dental.
Why Should You Seek Orthodontic Treatment?
There are many conditions that could require you to see an orthodontist for treatment. Some examples of these conditions include:
- Underbite: This is a condition that occurs when the upper teeth are too far back while the bottom teeth protrude too far forward.
- Overbite: Also known as buckteeth, this condition occurs when the upper teeth stick out too far forward over the lower teeth.
- Crossbite: This condition occurs when the upper and lower teeth don’t come together in the correct position.
- Spacing: Spacing is a problem that occurs when your teeth are spaced too far apart in places, which leads to gaps between the teeth.
- Crowding: This condition occurs when there are too many teeth along the dental ridge.
Types of Orthodontic Treatments
There are many types of orthodontic treatments that can be used to correct your bite. Orthodontic appliances are designed to impact the growth of your jaw, change the position of your teeth and retrain the muscles in your jaw.
Most orthodontic appliances use gentle pressure to slowly make changes to your bite. The length of time an orthodontic treatment takes depends on the severity of the problem and the type of dental appliance being used to correct the problem. Often, orthodontic treatments take months or years to have the full effect on your teeth. Common orthodontic treatments include:
BRACES
Braces are one of the most common types of orthodontic treatments. Braces consist of brackets, wires and bands affixed to the teeth to put gentle pressure on the teeth and slowly force them to change position. Brackets are bonded to the teeth and then connected by wires that are tightened over time.
ALIGNERS
Aligners are an alternative to braces and are often used in place of braces to correct the alignment of the teeth. Aligners consist of a clear cover placed over the mouth to slowly force the teeth to assume a new position.
Over time, the aligners are replaced with new aligners to force the teeth into a new position incrementally. Aligners are often preferred to braces because they are hard to see and therefore far more subtle than standard braces. Aligners can also be removed when certain foods are eaten.
REMOVABLE RETAINERS
A removable retainer is an appliance that the patient wears after braces have done their job. Retainers are worn on the roof of the mouth to prevent the teeth from returning to their original position after the braces are gone.
About Orthodontic Surgery
Sometimes orthodontic surgery is necessary to correct certain orthodontic conditions. Surgery can expedite treatments and make treatments more effective. Your orthodontist will tell you if this type of surgery is necessary. Your professional will also help prepare you for your surgery to ensure that your experience is smooth and successful.
Think You Need Orthodontic treatment in Onalaska WI? Contact Us
Do you think you need orthodontic treatment in Onalaska, WI? If so, call Valley Dental today. At Valley Dental, we can help you determine whether orthodontic treatment is right for you. Call today to learn more.
