Smiling woman showing braces

Orthodontic treatment offers benefits that extend well beyond just straightening teeth and improving your bite. It plays a key role in enhancing overall self-confidence and promoting better oral health. While a radiant smile is certainly appealing, addressing underlying dental or jaw issues is even more crucial. Misaligned teeth or jaw irregularities can make cleaning difficult, increasing the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, or even tooth loss. If left untreated, orthodontic problems may also cause difficulties with chewing, speaking, and uneven wear on teeth surfaces. Over time, excessive pressure on gums and bone can impact jaw joints, potentially leading to headaches or discomfort in the face and neck.

The American Association of Orthodontics recommends that children receive an orthodontic evaluation by age 7. Though treatment can be effective at any age, early assessment helps ensure the best possible dental health outcomes.

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Thanks to advances in orthodontics, wearing braces is easier and more comfortable than ever before. Modern options range from traditional metal braces to clear or tooth-colored brackets, as well as heat-activated ‘NASA’ wires that require fewer office visits! Some patients may qualify for Invisalign, a discreet treatment using clear, removable aligners—no brackets or wires needed.

When treatment is needed, we’ll carefully review all available options to find the best fit for your unique needs.

Common reasons for orthodontic treatment (braces) in adults and children include:

  • Breathing or swallowing challenges – Mouth breathing can contribute to snoring and sleep apnea.
  • Crossbite – Upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth towards the tongue.
  • Crowding – Teeth that are extra, misaligned, or overlapping.
  • Deep Overbite – Lower front teeth bite into the soft tissue behind upper teeth.
  • Facial and mouth disfigurement – Affects jaw growth and teeth positioning.
  • Jaw or TMJ pain
  • Missing or extra teeth – From decay, injury, or inherited conditions.
  • Overjet (protruding upper teeth) – Upper teeth extend beyond normal limits, often linked to a short lower jaw.
  • Self-esteem – A bright smile can boost confidence and self-image.
  • Spacing between teeth – Teeth gaps due to missing or size variations.
  • Speech, chewing, or biting issues
  • Underbite (lower jaw protrusion) – Lower jaw extends beyond the upper jaw.

Specific concerns for children include:

  • Thumb or finger sucking – Can push upper front teeth forward and cause mouth breathing.
  • Misaligned erupting teeth – Early guidance can help teeth grow into better positions.

What does orthodontic treatment involve?

Orthodontic care typically occurs in three phases:

1. Planning Phase – Initial visits include:

  • Reviewing medical and dental history.
  • Taking molds or impressions of your teeth.
  • Using computer-generated photos of your head and neck to assist planning.
  • Photographing your face and mouth.
  • Taking X-rays of teeth and jaws.

Following this, your orthodontist will customize a treatment plan and prepare your braces or appliances.

2. Active Phase – You’ll visit regularly for adjustments and follow care instructions to achieve the best results.

3. Retention Phase – After removing braces, you’ll wear retainers to keep teeth stable in their new positions. Retention time varies per individual.

Treatment times depend on your unique situation, and your orthodontist will guide you toward a lasting, confident smile.

Orthodontics not only improves your smile but also supports the health of your jaw, teeth, and sometimes overall well-being.