Orthodontics - South Boston

What Is Orthodontics?

Orthodontics is a specialized dental field focused on diagnosing and treating tooth misalignment and irregularities in the jaw. The term "orthodontics" comes from the Greek words *orthos* (meaning proper or straight) and *odons* (meaning teeth). 

Well-aligned teeth provide several benefits, such as easier cleaning, improved oral hygiene, clearer speech, and a more attractive smile. While orthodontic treatment is effective at any age, the American Dental Association recommends that children have an orthodontic evaluation around age seven. Starting treatment early allows orthodontists to address issues sooner, resulting in quicker and more successful outcomes.

What Issues Can Orthodontic Treatment Address?

Orthodontists can effectively address numerous dental issues, often achieving complete teeth realignment. Depending on the case's complexity, orthodontists may work independently or with a maxillofacial surgeon to ensure optimal results.

Here are some typical dental irregularities that require orthodontic treatment:

• Overcrowding occurs when the jaw has insufficient space for all adult teeth to align naturally. Overcrowding can lead to displaced, rotated, or misaligned teeth.
• Overbite: An overbite is when the upper jaw (maxilla) protrudes beyond the lower jaw (mandible), giving the smile a "toothy" appearance and making the chin appear recessed.
• Underbite: Also known as a negative underjet, an underbite occurs when the lower jaw (mandible) protrudes past the upper jaw (maxilla), giving the chin an overly prominent look. Developmental delays or genetic factors often cause both underbites and overbites.

Orthodontists can diagnose and treat these issues, enhancing your smile's appearance and functionality.

What Dental Issues Can Orthodontics Treat?

Orthodontics is a versatile field of dentistry that can be used alone or combined with maxillofacial or cosmetic treatments.

Here are some common conditions that orthodontics can treat:

• Anteroposterior Deviations: These occur when the upper and lower jaws misalign. Examples include overbites, where the upper teeth extend beyond the lower teeth, and underbites, where the lower teeth sit ahead of the upper teeth.
• Overcrowding: A frequent orthodontic issue, overcrowding happens when there isn't enough space for adult teeth to grow and align properly.
• Aesthetic Concerns: Even a single tooth misalignment can affect the appearance of your smile. An orthodontist in Boston can correct this with precision. Additionally, they can work on reshaping the jaw, lips, or face to improve both function and aesthetics.

What Are Some Of The Most Common Orthodontic Treatments?

The common orthodontic treatments offered by Orthodontics include:

• Fixed Orthodontic Braces: Metal or ceramic brackets are attached to each tooth, and a wire runs through the brackets. The dentist regularly adjusts the wire to gradually align the teeth. After achieving the desired results, they completely remove the braces.
• Removable Appliances: Orthodontists use various removable appliances, such as headgear to correct overbites, Hawley retainers to maintain tooth positioning as the jawbone adjusts, and facemasks to correct underbites.
• Invisalign®:Invisalign® is a modern, removable, transparent dental aligner that functions like traditional braces. It offers the convenience of being removable for eating, but not all patients qualify for this treatment.

Who Is A Good Candidate For Orthodontic Treatment?

Orthodontics is a specialized field of dentistry focused on diagnosing, treating, and preventing malocclusions (improper bites) and other jaw and facial irregularities. Orthodontists are highly trained to correct these issues, helping restore your smile's functionality, health, and aesthetic balance. While orthodontic treatments were initially designed for children and teenagers, nearly one-third of patients today are adults, proving that individuals of any age can benefit from orthodontic care.

Stages Of Orthodontic Treatment

Orthodontic treatment typically takes six to thirty months, depending on the type of malocclusion, the dental devices used, and the patient's dedication to the process. Here's a comprehensive overview of the three major stages of orthodontic treatment, as guided by South Boston Orthodontics:

Phase 1: The Planning Stage

In this initial phase, the orthodontist diagnoses thoroughly to determine the most efficient and effective way to realign the teeth. The first few visits may include:

• Medical and Dental Evaluations: The orthodontist manages any existing medical or dental issues before starting treatment, recognizing the close connection between dental and physical health.  
• Study Models (Bite Impressions): A dental tray filled with gel captures impressions of the teeth, which are later filled with plaster to create models. These models allow the orthodontist to evaluate each tooth's alignment.
• Panoramic X-rays: These X-rays help the orthodontist assess potential jaw joint issues and evaluate the positioning of each tooth and its root.
• Computer-Generated Images: These tools aid in planning the treatment and visualizing how it will impact the shape of the face and jaw symmetry.

Photographs: Orthodontists often take photos of the face and teeth before, during, and after treatment to track progress and its effect on facial structure.

Phase 2: The Active Phase

After gathering diagnostic information, orthodontists will develop a customized treatment plan. At this stage, the orthodontist will recommend either fixed or removable orthodontic devices to gradually move the teeth into proper alignment.

• Fixed Braces are the most common devices. Metal or ceramic brackets are attached to the teeth and connected by an archwire. Lingual braces on the inside of the teeth offer a more discreet option.
• Removable Devices: Alternatives to traditional braces include Invisalign®, headgear, and facemasks, designed to be worn for a specified amount daily.

The orthodontist regularly adjusts these devices to ensure they apply consistent pressure to the teeth. Attending all scheduled appointments and promptly reporting any damage to the device is essential.

Phase 3: The Retention Phase

Once the teeth are correctly aligned, the orthodontist removes the braces and devices, signaling the end of active treatment. At this stage, the orthodontist creates a custom retainer to prevent the teeth from shifting back to their original positions. Patients must wear the retainer for a designated amount of time each day. During this phase, the jawbone reforms around the newly aligned teeth, stabilizing them.

With guidance from Orthodontics, each phase of treatment is carefully managed to ensure optimal results and long-term success for your orthodontic care.

Can Adults Benefit From Orthodontic Braces?

Crooked or misaligned teeth not only impact appearance, often leading to low self-esteem and reduced confidence, but they can also cause functional issues like difficulty biting, chewing, and speaking clearly. Orthodontists will tell you that properly aligned teeth are typically healthier overall.

Straight teeth offer numerous health and dental advantages, including:

• Reduced risk of tooth decay
• Lower chances of developing periodontal disease
• Decreased likelihood of tooth injuries
• Improved digestion by facilitating proper chewing

Fortunately, orthodontic braces have become more convenient for adults, with various fixed and removable devices available to address different malocclusions.

The most common malocclusions include underbites (where the lower teeth extend beyond the upper teeth), overbites (where the upper teeth protrude beyond the lower teeth), and overcrowding, where there isn't enough space on the dental arches to accommodate all the adult teeth.

Before recommending any specific orthodontic treatment, orthodontists will first address any pre-existing dental issues, such as gum disease, plaque buildup, or tooth decay, as braces can exacerbate these conditions if left untreated.

Are Braces Painful?

A common question about braces is whether they cause pain. The truth is, braces do not hurt when applied, so there's no need to worry. You may experience mild soreness or discomfort for a few days after the orthodontist places the wire in the brackets.