Orthodontic TreatmentBurbank, CA

Understanding Orthodontic Treatment

Orthodontic treatment moves and straightens teeth to improve their appearance and function. There are various treatments available to move teeth, including braces and aligners. Different treatment options are better for certain patients depending on factors like age, jaw imbalances, teeth size, and more.

When the teeth do not meet correctly, it can strain the jaw muscles, cause jaw and joint problems, and even lead to headaches. Orthodontic treatment can help distribute biting pressure evenly to reduce strain and improve long-term oral health. While crooked teeth can make having good oral hygiene difficult, straight teeth are easier to clean and lower the risks for gum disease and tooth decay.

Why Orthodontic Treatment

Generally, orthodontic treatment is best done in childhood to prevent and correct bite irregularities. Genetic factors, premature loss of baby teeth, and habits like excessive pacifier use and thumb sucking can cause these irregularities. Orthodontic treatment can also contribute to improved function, including the ability to bite, chew, and speak clearly.

Pediatric dentists and orthodontists will check the patient’s bite to determine whether they require braces. Depending on how the teeth are growing, early intervention can combat orthodontic irregularities. The American Association of Orthodontics recommends that children have their first orthodontic appointment no later than age 7. This age allows orthodontic problems to be recognized as there are enough baby and permanent teeth.

Orthodontic Treatment Options

A full examination must occur before receiving orthodontic treatment. As an orthodontist and dentist, we can identify a variety of oral health issues and recommend the most effective treatment. This examination will include a thorough inspection of the mouth, jaws, teeth, and face. X-rays and plaster models may also aid in the examination process. Our team will discuss the possible treatment options based on the patient’s preference and needs before creating a customized treatment plan.

Some available orthodontic treatment options are braces and aligners. Braces apply steady pressure on the teeth to correct alignment issues. Braces typically include brackets that are attached to the teeth and connected with wires and rubber bands. We tighten the wire over time to move the teeth into a straighter position. Aligners like Invisalign® are clear, removable braces that move the teeth with plastic trays. Patients receive a succession of progressively different trays that move the teeth into a better position over time.

Maintenance During Orthodontic Treatment

It is essential to care for teeth and maintain good oral hygiene when receiving orthodontic treatment. A proper dental routine includes brushing teeth after every meal and making sure to floss at least once a day. Aligners should be kept safe in its container while eating, brushing, or flossing.

During treatment, it is also important to avoid sticky, chewy, and hard foods that can damage the appliance. Avoid consuming foods with large amounts of sugar as it can increase the number of bacteria in the mouth and cause more plaque and cavities. Regular check-ups are also necessary to check the treatment progression.

Call Us Today

Children with crooked teeth or misaligned jaws can benefit from orthodontic treatment. Our team at Star Kids Dental & Orthodontics can help. Call us today at 818-483-9064 to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are braces safe?

Braces are generally a safe treatment; however, there are some risks. Failure to remove trapped food particles around the teeth can result in tooth decay, gum disease, and permanent stains on the teeth from mineral loss. There is also a risk for soft tissue injuries as the inner cheeks, lips, and gums touch the metal braces. However, proper care and treatment can reduce or heal these injuries. In some rare cases, patients may be allergic to the braces’ materials.

How long does orthodontic treatment take?

Orthodontic treatment length will vary for everyone as each patient responds differently. The key factor regarding the length of orthodontic treatment is the kind of problem. While simple cases may only take a few months to fix, more complicated problems like a complete bite correction can take a couple of years to resolve.

Will braces interfere with my child’s everyday activities?

Children with braces can resume their normal activities from band practice to sports and exercise. Although they can resume these activities, it is necessary to take precautions to keep their braces and mouths safe. It is especially important to wear mouthguards while playing sports and exercising to protect the teeth and the surrounding soft tissue in the mouth from potential damage.

How often will my child need follow-up visits for braces?

It is essential to have follow-up appointments throughout orthodontic treatment. Patients will typically return every four to six weeks to have adjustments made to their orthodontic appliances. The adjustment process is gradual to avoid damaging the support structure of the teeth.

Do aligners hurt?

It is normal to experience mild pain and discomfort while wearing aligners. This soreness is a sign that the aligners are working and moving the teeth into position. However, not every patient will experience pain or soreness while wearing aligners.