Orthodontist – When you wake up and smile in the mirror, do you wish your teeth were different? Do you know your options for corrective orthodontic work? The field of orthodontics is constantly evolving new technologies beyond the old metal and wire braces. If you haven’t looked into orthodontics for a while, you’re more likely than ever to find a treatment plan that works for your budget, lifestyle, and preferences.
Consider the following treatments that a qualified orthodontist can provide:
1. Clear Aligners to Straighten Teeth
Adults are increasingly relying on clear plastic aligners to straighten their teeth over metal braces. You might even have a friend that’s been wearing them for months, but you would never know because they’re extremely invisible.
To create clear aligners, the orthodontist passes a wand over your teeth that records a digital impression. The computer then produces a series of plastic aligners – similar to a very thin, translucent mouth guard – that snap onto your teeth and stay put all day and night. You replace the aligner with a new one every month, and each new aligner brings your teeth slightly closer to the desired state.
If you’ve had traditional braces in the past, and the memories of the pain and discomfort make you wary of trying to straighten your teeth again, clear aligners are much more comfortable, with no poking wires. You also take them out when you eat, which prevents some of the pressure that traditional braces cause when you chew.
Clear aligners are also useful if you’ve had orthodontics and want to maintain your straightened teeth with a comfortable option for a retainer. Additionally, the same technology can create night guards to prevent you from grinding your teeth at night.
2. Corrective Jaw Surgery
This may not be on the top of your list of most desired medical procedures, but sometimes you cannot correct jaw misalignment by braces alone. Jaw realignment can relieve pain, correct any cosmetic facial distortion, and realign your bite pattern to keep your teeth healthy. Your orthodontist can walk you through whether a jaw correction is the proper treatment and how the procedure can improve your outcome.
3. Dental Implants
If you have missing teeth, an orthodontist can help with dental implants. If your teeth have been missing for some time, your teeth may have shifted into the gap. Orthodontists can help reopen that gap to prepare for a dental implant and replace the tooth that was once in that space.
See an Orthodontist to Learn Your Treatment and Financing Options
Now that you know some of the possibilities, see an orthodontist if you would like to map out a personalized plan. Look for a clinic that provides newer technologies and will work with you on your treatment goals. You should also make sure the orthodontist takes your insurance, if you have it, and offers the flexibility of a zero-interest payment plan. With flexible treatment and financing options, you will have the smile of your dreams in no time at all.