Do you feel confident about your smile? If not, you’re not alone, and there are plenty of options available to help make your smile straighter. Also, having straight, healthy teeth doesn’t just make you look good. The straighter your teeth are, the better you’ll feel — both mentally and physically.

This just barely scratches the surface of why orthodontic treatment is so important. Orthodontic treatment is necessary when it comes to fixing issues like crooked teeth, an underbite or overbite, and a misaligned jaw. We’ll be breaking down why orthodontics is important in more detail below, so stick around.

What Exactly is Orthodontics?

Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that focuses on fixing teeth and jaw alignment issues. For example, you’ve probably heard of braces or Invisalign — these are some tools that orthodontists use to straighten teeth, close gaps, and make sure that you can bite down properly.

It’s not just about having a perfect smile (although that’s a nice bonus!). Orthodontic treatment can make your teeth easier to clean, prevent future dental problems, and improve how your teeth and jaw work together when it comes to things like eating, speaking, and even breathing.

Why is Orthodontic Treatment Important?

Here are some of the main reasons why getting orthodontic treatment is worth considering (no matter what your age or orthodontic situation is):

Better Oral Health

Crooked or crowded teeth can make brushing and flossing a lot harder. This means it’s easier for plaque and bacteria to build up on your teeth. That can lead to cavities, gum disease, and other unpleasant issues.

A More Comfortable Bite

When your teeth don’t line up correctly, it can make chewing and even speaking more difficult. Misaligned teeth can also put extra stress on your jaw, which can sometimes lead to pain or TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders. Orthodontic treatment helps your teeth and jaw work together better.

Improved Confidence

Your smile is one of the first things people notice about you. If you’re self-conscious about having crooked teeth, it can hold you back socially or professionally. Orthodontic treatment will help improve your smile and your confidence, so it’s definitely worth it.

Preventing Major Problems Later

Fixing alignment issues early can save you or your child from bigger headaches down the road. Misaligned teeth can wear unevenly or even chip over time. By addressing these problems now, you’ll be protecting your teeth in the future.

The Different Types of Orthodontic Treatments

Orthodontic treatment doesn’t look the same for everyone. Obviously, no two people have the same smile. That’s why there are so many orthodontic treatment options available, especially in this day and age. Let’s take a closer look below:

Traditional Metal Braces

Traditional metal braces are the braces most people think of (metal brackets and wires that gradually move your teeth into place). They’re super effective for more serious alignment problems, but they’re definitely noticeable.

Invisalign

If you’re looking for a more discreet option, you might consider getting Invisalign aligners. These clear, removable aligners are practically invisible, so they’ve gained a lot of popularity among both teens and adults. You can take them out while eating or brushing your teeth, which further adds to their convenience.

Lingual Braces

Lingual braces work like traditional braces, however, they’re placed on the back of your teeth instead of the front. This makes them almost invisible from the outside. They’re a great option if you want the effectiveness of braces without anyone noticing them.

Surgical Orthodontics

Sometimes, jaw alignment problems are too severe to fix with braces or aligners alone. In these cases, surgical orthodontic treatment may be necessary. This usually involves surgery to reposition the jaw (combined with braces for the best results).

When Should You See an Orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that kids see an orthodontist by age 7 or 8. That might seem early, but it’s actually the perfect time to catch any potential problems (since a child’s teeth are still developing at this age).

For both kids and adults, there are some specific signs that it might be time to see an orthodontist. If you’re a parent, make sure to keep a close eye on your kid(s) so that they don’t go without early orthodontic treatment if they need it!

• Trouble chewing or biting food
• Teeth that stick out or are crooked
• Jaws that shift, make noises, or feel uncomfortable
• Grinding or clenching your teeth
• Accidentally biting your cheek or the roof of your mouth
• Uneven facial features or jaw alignment
• Thumb-sucking or other habits that affect your teeth

Even if you just want a better-looking smile, visiting an orthodontist is a good idea. Whether you need braces, Invisalign, or another type of treatment, they’ll work with you to come up with a treatment plan that fits your needs.

What to Expect When You Start Orthodontic Treatment

If you’re anxious about going to the orthodontist, you’re not the only one. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect when you first start orthodontic treatment. Hopefully, knowing what to expect will put your nerves at ease!

Initial Consultation

During your first consultation, your orthodontist will check your teeth and jaw, as well as take X-rays or scans. They’ll ask you questions about your goals and discuss potential treatment options with you.

Treatment Plan

Based on what they find during the initial consultation, your orthodontist will recommend the best treatment for you. If your orthodontic problems are relatively mild, they may recommend Invisalign. If they’re more severe, they may recommend braces or something else.

Treatment Process

Over time, your braces or aligners will gradually shift your teeth into place. You’ll check in with your orthodontist regularly to make sure everything’s going as planned.

Conclusion

Orthodontics is about so much more than just having straight teeth. With orthodontic treatment, you’ll be able to improve your confidence and overall quality of life. Schedule a consultation with Centerton Braces in NJ, or don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns.