Your teeth should be important to you because they need to help you chew and talk for the rest of your life. Many people find that they require dentures or other mouth tools later in life to be able to chew and have the same mouth shape in their later years. Many times, orthodontics are used to treat children with many different mouth problems. This corrects the problem and allows them to have a healthy mouth for many years. However, adults are also finding that an orthodontist can help them and can also benefit.
What Is It?
Orthodontic care is a specialty field of dentistry that focuses primarily on the treatment and diagnosis of facial and dental irregularities, which can include poor jaw alignment, crowded, crooked or protruding teeth. This care is provided by an orthodontist, who is a dentist who has received postgraduate training in the specialty.
Because it is a specialty care option, you may require a referral to see one though many insurance companies no longer need referrals and allow you to see one when you think it is necessary.
Treatments
Treatments focus on improving your oral health, as well as maintaining it. It will also help improve the appearance of your smile and can help with self-esteem. However, braces and other orthodontic treatments may require you to look a little strange for a few years in order to correct the problem though new technology is available that provides clear braces.
If your orthodontist believes you need treatment, they will talk to you about your options and explain each in detail. You may always ask for a specific treatment, such as clear or invisible braces, but they may not fully help in your situation.
Reasons To Consider
Typically, orthodontists are used to correct mouth problems that affect speech, chewing or other oral functions. You will also benefit from a reduced risk of gum disease and tooth decay because the teeth can be more easily cleaned. It can also prevent tooth wear, maintain proper breathing, decrease breaking or chipping of the teeth and help your face look more even and natural.
Goal of Treatment
The primary goal of treatment is to fix any particular problems in your mouth to allow you to eat, breathe and speak better. However, secondary goals include having a nicer smile, straighter teeth and a better outlook on life, as well as help develop better self-confidence.
Orthodontics is an important part of your oral health. If your dentist has recommended that you see an orthodontist, consider Oakbrook Orthodontics today.
