Everyone knows that braces straighten crooked teeth. The scope of orthodontics encompasses much more than just making beautiful smiles. Orthodontic treatment also plays an important role in improving overall health.
In addition to straightening crooked teeth, orthodontists are also able to correct irregularities of the bite and facial structures in the mouth and jaw. The goal of orthodontic treatment is to achieve balance between the teeth and face for a lifetime of beautiful, healthy smiles.
Everyone wants a beautiful smile. An attractive smile improves self-esteem, which can actually improve the quality of life itself. Major orthodontic problems can be hidden behind perfectly acceptable smiles. If these problems go untreated, they can jeopardize the health of the teeth, gums and jaw joints. Some of the most common problems are:
- Upper Front Teeth Protrusion
The appearance and function of your teeth are impacted by this type of bite. It is characterized by the upper teeth extending too far forward or the lower teeth not extending far enough forward.
- Overbite
The upper front teeth extend out over the lower front teeth, sometimes causing the lower front teeth to bite into the roof of the mouth.
- Crossbite
The upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth, which may cause tooth stratification and misaligned jaw growth.
- Openbite
Proper chewing is impacted by this type of bite, in which the upper and lower front teeth do not overlap. Openbite may cause a number of unwanted habits, such as tongue thrusting.
- Crowding
Crowding occurs when teeth have insufficient room to erupt from the gum. Crowding can often be corrected by expansion, and many times, tooth removal can be avoided.
- Spacing
Spacing problems may be caused by missing teeth, or they may only be a cosmetic or aesthetic issue.
- Dental Midlines not Matched
This type of problem is caused when the back bite does not fit and match appropriately, which may negatively impact jaw and proper dental function.
Each orthodontic case determines its own best starting and treatment time based on growth patterns and severity. Patients can begin treatment as early as age 7. Treatment at an early age may reduce the length of time braces will have to be worn by guiding facial growth and tooth eruption. About 25 percent of orthodontic patients are adults. These patients are most frequently being treated for conditions that were not corrected earlier in life.
Dr. Fravel and his staff feel fortunate that we are able to provide professional orthodontic care for our patients and improve our patients’ appearance, self-esteem and dental health. They are committed to making your orthodontic treatment a worthwhile and meaningful experience.