The Why of Orthodontic Care

Orthodontic care is common in our culture, but why? Let’s look at the many benefits of a straighter smile through orthodontic treatment.

Orthodontic treatment is used to treat bad bites, also called “malocclusion.” Malocclusion occurs when the teeth are crooked, the teeth are too crowded or the top and bottom jaws don’t line up properly. For some, these problems are inherited. For others, they are the result of oral injury, mistimed tooth loss, or thumb-sucking.

Orthodontic care can help stave off further damage to your mouth in the future. If you choose not to correct malocclusion, you will probably continue to experience problems, such as uneven wear on enamel, jaw problems, and affected speech. Crowded and crooked teeth are harder to keep clean, so you are more likely to deal with problems such as gum disease, cavities and tooth loss.

Orthodontic care can begin at any age after the person is 8 years old. Adult orthodontic care is becoming more popular, as treatment options are becoming more discreet and orthodontia is more socially acceptable for people over the age of 18.

Depending on how severe the malocclusion is and which treatment options are available, orthodontic treatment will likely take 1-3 years. This will be followed by a period of time wearing a retainer, to make sure your teeth remain in place.

For more information, call A Winning Smile Orthodontics in Worthington, Ohio, at 614-888-8070.  Dr. Catherine and our team are happy to help!

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