Orthodontic care is a common sight, among pre-teens and teenagers and now, more and more frequently, among adults. Here are some benefits of obtaining a straighter smile through orthodontic treatment.
Orthodontic treatment is used to treat malocclusion, or “bad bites.” Malocclusion occurs when the teeth are too crowded or crooked, or the top and bottom jaws don’t line up properly when the jaws are closed. Some people inherit these problems from their parents; other causes include oral injury, mistimed tooth loss, or thumb-sucking.
Orthodontic care can help correct the damage done by malocclusion, as well as help stave off damage in the future. If you choose not to treat malocclusion, you may continue experiencing problems, such as:
-difficulty chewing
-uneven wear on tooth enamel
-tooth loss
-affected speaking
-gum disease
-jaw problems
Luckily, orthodontic treatment can help prevent these problems. Orthodontic care can begin at any age, however, orthodontists usually wait until a person is at least 8 years old. Adult orthodontic care is becoming more popular as time goes on; treatment options are becoming more discreet and orthodontia is becoming more socially acceptable for people over 18.
Depending on how severe the malocclusion is, and which treatment options are available, treatment will likely take 1-3 years. This will probably be followed by a period of time wearing a retainer, to ensure that your teeth remain in place and your investment doesn’t go to waste.
For more information, call Hamilton & Manuele Orthodontics in Las Vegas, Nevada, at 702-243-3300. Dr. R. Cree Hamilton and our team are happy to help!
Photo by Andrea Piacquadio
