What is orthodontics?
A beautiful smile provides a compelling reason for orthodontic care. The best reason for orthodontic care is to show off healthy teeth. Orthodontic care may often be viewed as primarily cosmetic, but in reality it is an important part of long-term health care. Orthodontic problems are often very visible. Overbites, uneven teeth, and misalignment of the jaw are recognizable to most people upon casual observation. However, some are unaware that if left uncorrected, orthodontic issues can cause lifelong problems, including:
- Tooth decay
- Expensive dental care
- Abnormal tooth wear
- Gum disease
- Bone destruction
- TMJ (jaw joint) problems
- Psychological stigma
- Digestive difficulties
Do I need orthodontics?
Orthodontic patients and their parents consistently feel that improved self-confidence is one of the major benefits of orthodontics in Lindon, Utah. One of the best things about orthodontic treatment is that these benefits can last a lifetime. Even after treatment is finished, patients are able to enjoy a continuing positive self-image, great wedding photos, confident job interviews, improved speech, and teeth that are easier to clean.
Children between the ages of 7 and 14 are typical candidates for braces because their facial structures are still developing. Adults are also candidates for braces but can entail additional procedures because their faces have already fully developed.
Orthodontic Treatments
Orthodontic procedures, also called “orthodontia,” are complex processes. In most cases, a dentist will need to make a plaster cast of the individual’s teeth and perform full X-rays of the head and mouth. After orthodontic appliances are placed, they need to be adjusted every 2-4 weeks to ensure that they continue to move the teeth into their correct positions. During your orthodontic treatment, you will regularly visit our office for these adjustments.
Retainers are used following braces to ensure that teeth remain in their corrected position. Be sure to regularly wear your retainer as prescribed to keep your teeth in their proper positions. Dr. Scott Healey will create an individualized orthodontic treatment plan to meet all of your specific needs and goals for a healthier, more beautiful smile.
To learn more about orthodontics and to schedule your personalized orthodontic consultation, we welcome you to contact us today at Scott M. Healey Dentistry.
