Weighing Your Options for Underbite Corrections

Woodlawn Orthodontics weighs in on various solutions for underbite corrections. (Source: WebMD, Braces, by WebMD Editorial Contributors, Medically Reviewed by Arefa Cassoobhoy, MD, MPH, August 17, 2020, https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/braces-and-retainers ).

 

Although an underbite may seem like a cosmetic issue, it can cause a number of problems, from speech difficulties, problems chewing food, and jaw pain to tooth decay, wearing away of the tooth enamel, and headaches. The exciting news is that there are many underbite solutions to restore the functionality of your jaw and make eating, speaking, and breathing easy.

An orthodontist is a professional who fixes underbites

Treating an underbite is a job for an orthodontist, a dentist who has undergone specialized training to diagnose, treat, and prevent jaw and teeth misalignment. An orthodontist completes dental school and goes on to obtain an orthodontics specialty education. The dental conditions an orthodontist is qualified to treat include jaw misalignment, overbites, underbites, crowded teeth, crooked teeth, and teeth that are too far apart.

“Orthodontic solutions help improve your smile and provide you with a better quality of life,” says Woodlawn Orthodontics. “An orthodontist will determine the best way to correct an underbite. For milder cases, underbite solutions consist of braces and clear aligners, while severe cases may require surgery.” A mild underbite is undetectable from the outside. The protrusion is easily evident when the teeth extend far forwards. This is seen in a severe underbite, which orthodontic treatments can fix.

Orthodontic solutions for an underbite

Braces are by far the most common way to treat misaligned teeth in children, according to WebMD editorial contributors. They have evolved in look and material, meaning you have choices beyond the traditional braces, underbite solutions consisting of metal brackets (small squares) placed on your teeth using an adhesive and connected by wire. Ceramic braces are another option. They use tooth-colored brackets, which make them subtler and less noticeable than their metal counterparts. Another type, lingual braces, are placed behind the teeth rather than the front. Finally, clear aligners or invisible braces consist of thin, transparent dental trays that fit your teeth and are removable. The discreet design of clear aligners and the ability to remove them during meals and brushing makes them a popular alternative to conventional orthodontic solutions.

“Based on your underbite, your orthodontist will recommend a dental appliance,” says Woodlawn Orthodontics. “You can have a conversation about the various underbite solutions available for your condition. Ultimately, the ideal method for your dental condition – whether traditional braces or aligners – will deliver the desired results.”

Braces work over time

Braces put constant pressure on the teeth and jaws to gradually move their position. The brackets, which can be plastic, stainless steel, or ceramic, are affixed to your teeth using a bonding agent or orthodontic bands. Spacers create sufficient space between teeth to make attaching the bands easier without applying too much pressure on the teeth. The arch wire in traditional braces acts as a track and guides the teeth in place. Ties are fine wires that fasten the arch wire to the brackets. A small metal part called the buccal tube is secured to the band of the last tooth. The rubber bands or elastics connect to the brackets. You can order them in any color you want. You’ll need to attach them as instructed by your orthodontist. You may additionally need to wear headgear to correct a misaligned bite. But you’ll have it on only while sleeping or at home.

Braces may hurt just a bit when they’re applied to your teeth or when they’re adjusted. “Never leave your adjustment until you’re sure your braces are comfortable,” advises Woodlawn Orthodontics. “Let your orthodontist know how your braces feel to prevent having to come in again for an adjustment.”

 

Make sure to follow your doctor’s care instructions. This includes avoiding foods like hard candies, gummies, popcorn, and corn on the cob. Treatment, on average, takes 1-3 years. Once your braces are off, you’ll love your new appearance. Are you considering orthodontic treatment? Contact Woodlawn Orthodontics for more information!

What is the Purpose of a Lip and Cheek Bumper?

Lip and cheek bumpers are custom orthodontic devices that are used during orthodontic treatment for misaligned teeth. They are most commonly used in cases where teeth protrude or where there is a significant gap between the upper and lower teeth.

This article covers the key aspects of lip and cheek bumpers, including their purpose, function, necessary use cases, and management guidelines.

The 101 on lip and cheek bumpers

Lip and cheek bumpers are used to create space in the mouth, especially in cases where teeth are overcrowded. They also help to maintain space after teeth extraction, prevent the upper teeth from biting behind the lower teeth, and correct bite problems.

The orthodontist first takes impressions of the patient’s teeth and mouth, which are used to create a custom-fit appliance. The appliance is then cemented onto the patient’s molars in the back of the mouth.

Children and teenagers most commonly need lip and cheek bumpers. However, adults may also need them in some cases. The orthodontist determines if they are necessary based on the patient’s specific dental needs.

How do lip and cheek bumpers work?

Lip and cheek bumpers guide the teeth into their proper positions. They create space between the patient’s lips and cheeks and the teeth, which allows for the teeth to move without obstruction. This space can also prevent the teeth from rotating or moving inward, helping to create a more even bite.

Lip and cheek bumpers can be used together with braces to align teeth by creating space between the patient’s lips and cheeks and the teeth. Additionally, they can be used with headgear, which helps to pull the teeth and jaw into alignment.

Wearing a lip and cheek bumper will feel different in the mouth and may cause discomfort or soreness, increased saliva production, and initial difficulty speaking or pronouncing certain words. These are normal changes as the mouth adjusts to the appliance, and the discomfort subsides over time.

How to manage and maintain lip and cheek bumpers?

Dental hygiene

Brush and floss twice a day to prevent decay and gum disease. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and incorporate fluoride toothpaste to clean the teeth and braces gently. Interdental brushes or water flossers can help clean hard-to-reach areas.

Please refrain from using toothpicks or other sharp objects near the bumpers, as they can cause damage or dislodgment to the bumpers.

Avoid these food items

Hard, crunchy, sticky, or chewy foods can damage the appliance or cause it to come loose. This food includes hard candy, popcorn, nuts, gum, caramel, taffy, and anything that requires excessive chewing or biting.

Eat soft foods like mashed potatoes, cooked vegetables, soup, yogurt, and pudding. Some other great options include scrambled eggs, soft fruits like bananas or berries, and well-cooked pasta or rice.

How to manage discomfort?

Use over-the-counter pain medication, like ibuprofen, to reduce inflammation and soreness. With any addition of medication, always consult your doctor and orthodontist. Another great way to manage discomfort is by applying orthodontic wax to cover any sharp or irritating parts of the bumper. To further address safety and comfort, we recommend wearing a mouthguard when playing sports to protect the bumpers and teeth from damage.

It is highly recommended not to play with the bumpers using the tongue or fingers, as this can also cause them to become dislodged.

If the lip bumper becomes dented or damaged, visit an orthodontist as soon as possible. The bumper may need to be adjusted or replaced to prevent any further damage.

 

Lip and cheek bumpers are typically worn for several months to a few years, depending on the severity of the teeth misalignment. They can help achieve improved tooth alignment and a more even bite, which can improve overall oral health and appearance.

However, the effectiveness of the bumpers also depends on the patient’s commitment to wearing them as directed and maintaining good oral hygiene.

Are you interested in learning about orthodontic treatments? Contact Woodlawn Orthodontics today!

Is it Too Late to Correct My Smile?

There are many reasons why smile correction was a second thought. Maybe families couldn’t include straight teeth solutions as part of their budget when they were kids. Perhaps their teeth didn’t begin to shift until they grew up. Either way, many people are now considering adult orthodontic treatment options to correct their smiles. Fixing your teeth can improve your aesthetic appeal as well as your overall physical health. So yes, there is always time to correct and restore your smile!

Let’s talk about orthodontic options

When it comes to adult orthodontic treatment options, Invisalign and ceramic braces are the most popular. Let’s look at them closely to identify which one is right for you.

Invisalign treatment to straighten your teeth

Invisalign treatment uses custom-made braces that straighten your teeth over time. The clear braces or aligners cover your teeth and slowly but steadily pull them into the proper position. These aligners can be removed whenever you wish, and they have no metal wire or brackets either, making them less noticeable compared to traditional metal braces.

Invisalign is among the best straight teeth solutions for those with misaligned teeth. It is also ideal for those with improper bites, which not affect your appearance but also causes jaw discomfort. In addition, since Invisalign aligners are clear, you can smile freely even when undergoing treatment, with nothing in your teeth to hinder your smile.

One of the main reasons Invisalign is preferred among adults is the shorter treatment time compared to regular braces. It only takes a few months for Invisalign treatment to align your teeth perfectly and bring out a naturally beautiful smile.

Ceramic braces to correct your smile

Ceramic braces are the other popular adult orthodontic treatment options. They come in shades that match the colour of your teeth and are far less noticeable compared to traditional braces. These braces do, however, consist of arch-wire and brackets and work similarly to traditional metal braces.

If you are considering straight teeth solutions, ceramic braces are less expensive compared to Invisalign treatment. However, fixing your teeth and correcting your smile takes between 12 and 36 months with this orthodontic treatment option. You will also have to maintain orthodontic visits at regular intervals of time to tighten the wire. On the bright side, ceramic braces are more durable, stain-resistant, and less irritating than traditional metal braces.

How to prepare

When preparing for adult orthodontic treatment, it is essential to consult with a reputed orthodontist and ask any questions you may have about straight teeth solutions. You must be prepared for some challenges over the course of the treatment. Sometimes, orthodontic treatments take longer than expected, so it is also best to keep that in mind. Each orthodontic case is different and depends on individual goals and oral health.

Before starting the treatment, it is advised that you start with a dental cleaning. Pay close attention to your oral care and hygiene during and after treatment. You may even have to wear a retainer to maintain your smile, but preparing in advance will eventually give you something to smile about.

 

Our teeth shift as we age, but there’s always something we can do about it. Adult orthodontic treatments will correct your teeth and make you smile confidently, no matter how old you are. Schedule your start date when you are ready to undertake your smile journey. For more information, contact Woodlawn Orthodontics today!

When Can My Child Receive Orthodontic Treatment in Guelph?

In recent years, kids’ orthodontic treatment has become more prevalent. It is now common practice to recommend orthodontic solutions to children as young as seven. Providing solutions to misaligned teeth and bite problems is the goal of orthodontics and pediatric dentistry.

Several kids orthodontic treatment options are available in Guelph, but how do you know your child needs treatment?

Every Case is Unique

Orthodontic solutions depend on many factors, including the child’s age and health. It’s common for orthodontic treatment to start between 7 and 14 years old, but it’s not always the case. A lot depends on your child’s genetics, dental history, and the problem’s severity.

Deciding Factors for Orthodontic Treatment

Teeth alignment is one of the main factors that determine kids orthodontic treatment. Malocclusions like overbites, underbites, and crossbites also need treatment. Poor bite function and difficulty speaking could indicate orthodontic issues.

As a result of these factors, your child may develop further dental problems later in life, such as tooth decay, gum disease, and erosion of your enamel. These issues can be mitigated, and your child can have healthy teeth if the problems are detected early and treated.

The Advantages of Starting Early

There are several advantages to starting kids’ orthodontic treatment early. Starting early is recommended by orthodontic and pediatric dentistry since it helps detect any problems before they become severe. Taking care of your child’s teeth at the right time can prevent them from becoming crooked, misaligned, or overcrowded. Additionally, early treatment can prevent dental problems caused by thumb sucking and tongue thrusting.

Using braces and aligners on young patients can provide optimal results. It would be best if you started early for the best result. Also, when looking for orthodontics and pediatric dentistry in Guelph, make sure to do a lot of research and meet with them to discuss orthodontic treatments.

 

Listed below are the steps of your little ones’ orthodontic treatment.

Stage 1: Planning

In addition to your consultation, the first step is to create a plan with the orthodontist before starting the treatment; an X-ray, impression, and photographs are taken to create a customized treatment plan.

Stage 2: Application

A treatment plan determines whether orthodontic appliances are used, such as braces. In this phase, we can proceed with the treatment.

Stage 3: Maintenance

Maintaining the teeth’s alignment after treatment involves wearing a retainer to prevent them from moving.

In the case of orthodontic for teens in Guelph, careful attention is paid at each stage. Maintaining good oral hygiene is also essential to prevent tooth decay and gum disease during treatment.

 

In conclusion, orthodontic solutions in Guelph can resolve problems related to misaligned teeth and bites. Kids orthodontic treatment in Guelph has various options, but every case is different. In addition to improving speech, digestion of food, and reducing tooth decay, you can minimize damage to your child’s teeth and gums by starting your kid’s orthodontic treatment early. To ensure healthy teeth and gums, it is crucial to maintain good oral hygiene and book an appointment for your kids’ orthodontic treatment in Guelph.

The Difference Between the Many Straight Teeth Solutions

Orthodontic treatments have evolved dramatically over the past couple of decades. There are several orthodontic treatments to consider these days, like ceramic braces, self-adjusting braces, and Invisalign treatment. Whether you have crooked, crowded, or gapped teeth, these orthodontic solutions are designed to correct your dental issues and enhance your smile effectively. In today’s article, we will take a closer look at some of the most popular straight teeth solutions out there.

Ceramic braces

Also known as clear braces, ceramic braces work similarly to metal braces. However, the ligatures, brackets, and wires are tooth- or enamel-coloured, making them blend seamlessly with your smile. They are ideal for fixing bite problems and straightening your teeth.

The main advantage is that though they are visible, ceramic braces are less noticeable, so they hardly detract from your smile. But, they are prone to breakage as they are less durable than metal braces. Ceramic braces are also harder to clean and maintain, thereby increasing your regular oral care time.

Self-adjusting braces

Self-ligating braces, as they are also called self-adjusting braces, deploy an inbuilt system through which the arch wire is secured to the brackets. Instead of using metal ties or tiny elastic bands (ligatures), these braces use a different method to reposition your teeth and jaws. Self-adjusting braces can use active or passive brackets. Active brackets deploy a sliding spring clip that applies an active force on the arch wire. The sliding mechanism used in passive brackets is simple, and there is no pressure on the arch wire. One of the main advantages of self-adjusting braces is that they are less painful compared to their traditional counterparts. They are also easy to clean and require fewer and shorter visits to the orthodontist.

Traditional metal braces

Traditional metal braces are among the earliest orthodontic treatments for crooked teeth. An excellent solution for extremely crowded teeth, they deploy wires, brackets, and stainless-steel bands that gently move your teeth into the desired or proper position over time. While traditional metal braces are less expensive than most other orthodontic treatments, their main drawback is that they are obvious, thereby affecting your smile. Another disadvantage of these braces is that they must be tightened every four to six weeks, so you will have to visit the orthodontic office more frequently.

Invisalign

Among the modern orthodontic treatments, Invisalign straightens your teeth without using metal braces. Instead, it deploys custom-made ceramic/plastic braces to cover your teeth and slowly but steadily pull them into the desired position. Since they are clear and easily removable, Invisalign braces or aligners are less noticeable in comparison with traditional braces. They do not hinder your smile and work twice as fast as traditional braces to straighten your teeth. Invisalign treatment is ideal for those with mild to moderately misaligned teeth.

 

Dental braces are designed to straighten your teeth and beautify your smile. In addition to the aesthetics, they also improve the overall health as well as the functionality of your teeth. Dental braces also make your oral care regime easier while preventing gum disease and cavities. It is essential to consult with your dentist to identify which orthodontic treatments are right for you.

The Connection Between Your Jaw and Migraine Headaches

Problems with your jaw can cause migraines and similar headaches. Even though the pain is felt at the side or the top of the head, it may also persist in your ear and jaw. It is for this reason that jaw alignment is considered among the top orthodontic solutions, as it corrects your jaw and eliminates pain caused by it.

In this article, Woodlawn Orthodontics and Health Match, with reviewer Davi Santana, M.Sc, discuss the correlation between jaw pain and headaches. (HealthMatch, How are Migraines Associated With Jaw Pain?, written by HealthMatch staff, Medically reviewed by Davi Santana, M.Sc., https://healthmatch.io/migraine/migraine-jaw-pain ).

Understanding the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) and how it causes headaches

Health Match discusses the temporomandibular joint and what it does. Woodlawn Orthodontics explains, “A temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is present on both sides of the head. It enables the jaw’s movement, allowing you to open your mouth.”

According to Health Match, similar to other joints, your TMJ can also develop issues over time. Woodlawn Orthodontics adds, “TMJ headaches may be caused by several different conditions affecting your temporomandibular joint. Whether it is joint hypermobility or tooth grinding, the pain caused by a TMJ headache spreads from your jaw and affects other parts of your head.”

Both Health Match and Woodlawn Dental agree that it can be challenging to differentiate a TMJ headache or migraine from other headaches. “Sometimes, the jaw pain caused by migraines is a result of a TMJ headache spreading to the jaw, typically on just one side,” reveals Woodlawn Orthodontics.

Identifying the signs of TMJ headaches

Health Match notes that there are signs that can help identify whether a migraine or headache is related to TMJ. It stresses the pain caused by jaw activity, the grinding of teeth during headaches, and other signs. It also suggests a ‘pencil test’ to identify a TMJ headache.

“If you experience pain following jaw activity such as eating chewy or crunchy foods, the headache is possibly caused by your TMJ. Also, check if your head hurts when your teeth are clenched or if your jaw remains tight during a headache. These may be signs of a TMJ headache,” states Woodlawn Orthodontics. They add,” One of the best ways to identify a TMJ headache is by using a pencil. Just hold it between your teeth without applying any kind of pressure on your jaw. If there is a noticeable change in the headache, it is likely a TMJ headache.”

Some of the common signs of a TMJ headache that require orthodontics for adults include popping or clicking sounds during jaw movement. Ringing in your ears, stiff jaw, and changes in your bite are all signs of TMJ headaches, they agree.

Woodlawn Orthodontics advises, “If you notice any of these signs, it is highly recommended to consider jaw alignment or orthodontics for adults.”

Can TMJ issues be treated?

Health Match states that, albeit rare, there are two popular surgical orthodontic solutions for TMJ headaches: Arthrocentesis and Arthroscopy. “In arthrocentesis, a needle pushes a liquid into the joint. This causes the ejection of substances and adhesions that cause inflammation. Arthroscopy uses the same technique with the addition of a camera for adhesion removal,” explains Woodlawn Orthodontics.

Woodlawn Orthodontics warns, “Although conservative treatments can fix most TMJ problems, getting a dentist’s diagnosis is crucial to understanding how to proceed. Migraines and TMJ headaches sometimes don’t react to certain oral or topical treatments, making it crucial to consider long-lasting orthodontic solutions,” it concludes.

 

Both Health Match and Woodlawn Orthodontics agree that the temporomandibular joint can cause migraines and headaches. However, there are orthodontic solutions such as jaw alignment or orthodontics for adults to correct the joint and prevent the pain from spreading to your head. All you have to do, they advise, is to consult a dentist before seeking treatment.

Top Reasons to Correct Your Underbite

An underbite is a medical condition where the lower teeth protrude past the upper teeth, resulting in the lower jaw protruding. If left untreated, it can result in medical and dental complications. An underbite can negatively affect your overall health in various ways. It can lead to problems such as difficulty in speaking and chewing. Additionally, it can lead to more severe conditions like sleep apnea and TMJ disorder.

If you are looking for underbite solutions, then keep on reading. This article covers dental treatment options for an underbite, including jaw alignment and orthodontic treatments.

The development of an underbite

The term “underbite” refers to a dental condition whereby the lower jaw extends beyond the upper jaw, resulting in an overlap between the lower and upper front teeth.

Types of underbites

As far as underbites are concerned, there are two types: dental underbites and skeletal underbites.

A dental underbite is a result of wrong jaw alignment; the lower teeth are positioned in front of the upper teeth, resulting in a dental underbite. Skeletal underbites occur when the lower jaw projects further than the upper jaw.

Factors contributing to the development of an underbite

Several factors, including genetics, thumb sucking, prolonged use of pacifiers, mouth breathing, and tongue thrusting, can cause an underbite.

If you have an underbite, you may notice some common characteristics. They include overlapping lower and upper teeth, a prominent chin, and discomfort while speaking, chewing, or biting. You may face difficulty closing your mouth or shifting the jaw while opening or closing the mouth. These signs indicate that it’s essential to opt for orthodontic treatments to seek underbite solutions.

Complications of an underbite

Teeth that have underbites can be more susceptible to plaque and bacteria build-up, which can, in turn, lead to gum disease or even tooth decay. This build-up of dental plaque can be problematic as it can be difficult to remove through regular brushing and flossing, making it challenging to maintain good oral hygiene.

Apart from oral health concerns, underbites can also cause snoring, sleep apnea, and mouth breathing. Headaches are another common problem associated with underbites. When the jaw is misaligned, it can put a strain on the muscles, causing discomfort and headaches.

Speech difficulties may also arise due to underbites. Additionally, underbites can cause temporomandibular disorder (TMD) in some cases, which can cause limited jaw movement and pain.

When teeth are not aligned correctly, cleaning them properly can make it challenging, leading to bacteria build-up and halitosis.

Overall, it is crucial to address underbites as they can cause various oral and overall health concerns.

A quick guide to underbite solutions

Some of the most common underbite solutions include a palatal expander, Invisalign, jaw surgery, and traditional braces.

By using clear aligners, Invisalign gradually shifts teeth into their correct position. In case of a severe underbite, jaw alignment surgery is usually recommended to realign the jawbones. Moreover, you can also opt for traditional braces that employ brackets and wires that are designed to gradually move the teeth into the correct position by applying pressure to them. A palatal expander is also one of the most recommended orthodontic appliance treatments that enlarge the upper jaw to allow the teeth to shift correctly.

 

Keeping your teeth healthy requires correcting an underbite. In order to avoid further dental and medical complications, orthodontic treatment should be sought as soon as possible. To correct an underbite and improve your overall oral health, use orthodontic solutions like Invisalign, jaw surgery, and braces. Contact Woodlawn Orthodontics today for more information!

 

Common Reasons You Need to Visit an Orthodontist

An orthodontist is different from your typical dentist. Unlike a regular dentist who cleans teeth and looks after oral health, an orthodontist specializes in correcting bite and jaw irregularities. Here’s a look at how you can benefit from seeing an orthodontist on a regular basis – regardless of your age.

Preventing: Prevent future dental problems

 Teeth and jaw problems can develop as early as eight years old, but an orthodontist can help you whether you are eight, 18, or 80.

Overcrowding teeth, overbites, and underbites are some problems that can be detected and treated promptly with corrective orthodontic solutions.

Correcting: Function and aesthetics

Corrective orthodontics can help with both functional and cosmetic periodontal issues. Here are some common teeth and jaw problems that can be corrected when treated on time. Remember that the sooner a problem is identified and treated, the better the outcome.

Misaligned jaw correction

A misaligned jaw can be painful and make chewing difficult. With the help of corrective orthodontics (fixed/removable dental braces), your orthodontist can fix any jaw misalignment without surgery.

Bite correction

Large gaps between your teeth can be unsightly and cause bite issues. Bite issues can alter the shape of your face and cause headaches, clenching, speech difficulties, and grinding. Crossbite, open bite, overbite, and underbite are all issues that can affect anyone at any age. If you notice a problem or change in your bite, you should immediately see an orthodontist.

Crooked and crowded teeth

Teeth are best treated early, but an orthodontist can help fix crooked teeth even in adulthood with braces that suit your lifestyle.

Overcrowding of teeth in your mouth can make it very hard to clean your teeth thoroughly and cause gum problems. An orthodontist can extract a tooth or two and then have you wear braces to close the gap.

Teeth shift – due to periodontitis

Loose teeth or teeth that shift their position are a sign of severe periodontal disease – inflammation of the tissue surrounding the teeth. As the infection spreads, the roots of the teeth are left vulnerable. There may be bone loss around the teeth. All that can cause your teeth to shift. Fortunately, your orthodontist can save your teeth from periodontal disease – but the problem must first be treated and diagnosed.

Improving: Quality of life

 Eating

Properly aligned teeth allow you to chew your food well with equal pressure exerted from the teeth on the upper and lower jaws.

Sleeping

Overcrowding and crooked teeth can cause sleep disturbances and problems like sleep apnea and bruxism. Getting your teeth straightened out can lead to improved sleep.

Breathing

Uneven teeth and misaligned jaws can make it difficult to close your mouth when you sleep and breathe through your nose. As a result, you might end up breathing through your mouth as you sleep – a problem that can be corrected with corrective orthodontics.

Making oral hygiene easier – Why is this essential 

Good oral hygiene is critical for your oral health to keep away harmful bacteria and plaque, infections, gum disease, and tooth infections. It can also lower your risk of cardiovascular disease. A well-aligned set of teeth can ensure it’s easier to look after your teeth, mouth, and gums.

Self-esteem

Healthy teeth can make you feel confident about your smile, and smiling helps release endorphins and increase your level of happiness in life.

 

Seeing your orthodontist at any age can help prevent future dental problems. Preventive orthodontics can keep teeth and jaw problems from getting worse, while corrective orthodontics can reduce bone loss around teeth and save your teeth and smile. Don’t put off seeing your orthodontist; begin any necessary orthodontic treatment as soon as possible to preserve and protect your teeth and smile.

 

What are Three Types of Orthodontic Treatment in Guelph

Today, more and more people are looking to enjoy the benefits of having straight teeth. Thus, orthodontic solutions in Guelph are becoming increasingly common and popular.

Orthodontics deals with the diagnosis, prevention, as well as correction of misaligned teeth and jaws. Today, a wide range of orthodontic treatments are available, depending on the type and severity of your issue.

We will, in this post, discuss the three types of orthodontic treatments in Guelph and what they include. Read on!

Why do you need orthodontic treatment?

Having misaligned teeth or crooked teeth can affect your appearance, chewing ability, speech, and overall dental health. Thus, orthodontic treatment becomes necessary to improve teeth and jaw alignment, enhance oral functions, and improve overall facial appearance.

When it comes to orthodontic solutions in Guelph, there are three levels of treatment available today. They include Aesthetic level one, Occlusions level two, and a combination of one and two, including jaw alignment. Let’s have a brief look at each of them:

 

Aesthetic level one treatment 

The level-one treatment is meant for individuals looking to improve their smile’s appearance. It is suitable for issues like misaligned teeth, crowded teeth, etc. Such problems can generally be treated with the help of retainers, Invisalign, traditional braces, etc.

Occlusions level two treatment 

When the level one treatment is not enough, patients will have to move to the level two treatment. It is basically for individuals dealing with the issue of a misaligned bite. This treatment focuses on correcting bite problems, such as overbite, underbite, crossbite, etc.

The combination of levels one and two, including jaw alignment

This is a comprehensive orthodontic treatment in Guelph. It is for individuals with complex orthodontic issues that require aesthetic correction, bite correction, and jaw alignment.

Benefits of having straight teeth

Receiving the right orthodontic solutions in Guelph can help you achieve perfectly aligned, straight teeth. Along with improving your facial appearance, straight teeth offer you several benefits, including the following:

 

Improved speech 

Using traditional braces or retainers can help you get rid of speech impediments. It will enable you to speak more clearly and confidently.

More self-esteem

Orthodontic treatment in Guelph can also boost your self-esteem by providing a more confident smile and speaking ability.

Improved oral function like eating and reduced discomfort

Straight teeth also improve oral functions. They make it easier to eat and chew food, reducing discomfort and potential jaw issues.

More attractive aesthetic 

With perfectly aligned, straight teeth, your facial aesthetic will move significantly. You will get a brighter and more even smile than before.

Easier oral hygiene maintenance 

Lastly, ceramic braces, retainers, and Invisalign make it easier to maintain oral hygiene. Brushing and flossing your teeth becomes easier and painless for you.

Stages of an orthodontic procedure

Orthodontic treatment in Guelph involves several stages, including the introduction of traditional braces, using ceramic braces, and finally, Invisalign.

 

Ready for traditional braces 

In this stage, the patient’s teeth are bonded to the brackets with a special adhesive. An arch wire is then passed through each bracket to join them together.

Ready for ceramic braces

These braces offer the same orthodontic benefits as traditional braces but with the added advantage of being less visible. The process of treatment is identical to that of traditional braces, with the only difference being the clear or tooth-coloured material used for the brackets.

Ready for Invisalign

This procedure involves the use of clear plastic aligners that are custom-made to fit the patient’s teeth. The patients are required to wear them for around 22 hours a day. The aligners are replaced every two weeks to move the teeth into their proper positions gradually.

 

So, that was all about the types of orthodontic treatments in Guelph. Remember, each of these treatments has its own advantages and complexities. However, their goal is the same: helping you achieve straighter teeth and a brighter and more confident smile. Thus, make sure to consult with your orthodontist and do ample research before making a final decision.

Are you ready to correct your smile? Contact Woodlawn Orthodontics in Guelph today!

Can I Leave My Crooked Teeth Alone?

When you’re dealing with crooked teeth, you could end up experiencing various functional and aesthetic issues. When your teeth are misaligned, it isn’t just how you look that’s affected, but also how you feel.

There are various health-related conditions you might find yourself dealing with when you have crooked teeth. Orthodontic treatments can help you straighten your teeth and restore your smile. But before you start looking into straight teeth solutions, let’s look at why you should fix your crooked teeth.

Why You May Want to Consider Correcting Crooked Teeth

You could find yourself dealing with various health issues when you have crooked teeth. You’re more likely to get periodontal disease, where your gums and teeth are affected. This is because when your teeth are crooked, cleaning between them becomes more difficult.

This leads to the buildup of plaque between the teeth. As a result, harmful bacteria can more easily multiply in your mouth. You could also have speech issues, as crooked teeth might prevent you from pronouncing words correctly.

People who have crooked teeth also deal with self-esteem issues. They aren’t able to smile openly and can end up feeling self-conscious while talking. A lot of people have crooked teeth because they have a misaligned jaw. This can be corrected with orthodontic treatments. If you have a misaligned jaw, your upper and lower teeth could protrude. This could result in them rubbing together. When this happens, chewing becomes challenging, and dental fractures or enamel erosion can also occur.

When you have crooked teeth, you could also experience TMJ disorder. This uncomfortable jaw issue affects the face, shoulders, and neck.

TMJ disorders affect people whose jaw and the hinge joint have experienced a lot of wear and tear.

Whether your teeth are rubbing together or your jaw muscles are under pressure for long periods of time, these can cause headaches.

Why Are Crooked Teeth So Common?

There are several factors that could cause people to get crooked teeth. Bad oral habits are one of them. Dental markers that cause crooked teeth often come from genetics. Sometimes, having a small mouth could also cause the teeth to be crowded.

If you have a misaligned jaw, then this could also lead to crooked teeth. This is because the teeth can’t stay in their normal position properly. What you eat is also essential. If you aren’t getting proper nutrition, then this can affect your oral health condition over time. Consuming excessive amounts of soft food over many years can affect your jaw muscle and size. This can, in turn, cause you to develop crooked teeth.

Finally, injury or trauma to the face can also cause people to develop crooked teeth. Orthodontic treatments can help people fix their crooked teeth. So what are the straight teeth solutions that are available to you?

Top Treatment Options for Crooked Teeth

If you have crooked teeth, various orthodontic treatments are available to you. The first of these is Invisalign.

Invisalign braces are incredibly convenient. They are comfortable to wear and easy to put on or remove. Invisalign braces are clear plastic trays that help shift your teeth slowly over time.

You can also consider getting traditional metal braces. These are made of brackets and can be slightly bulky. Some people experience discomfort when they use traditional metal braces. Traditional metal braces are the strongest of the straight teeth solutions available to you. If you have complex problems with biting or your teeth are overcrowded, traditional metal braces can help you.

The third option is ceramic braces. These are similar to traditional metal braces, but they have the same colour as your natural teeth, making them almost invisible. This is why ceramic braces are more popular than metal braces. Another option is retainers. You can get either removable or fixed retainers.

 

There are various straight teeth solutions available to fix crooked teeth. When you have crooked teeth, you may experience various oral health-related conditions. It can affect your self-esteem as well. With the help of straight teeth solutions like Invisalign, ceramic braces, retainers, and more, you can fix your crooked teeth easily. Contact Woodlawn Orthodontics today for more information!