What Procedures Fall Under Orthodontics?

Almost anyone would desire to have a picture-perfect smile. However, very few people are blessed with perfectly aligned teeth that don’t need straightening. In any case, our dentist in Chicago can carry out many orthodontic procedures for those who wish to take their teeth to the next level or treat orthodontic issues.

Dealing with orthodontic issues goes much deeper than just attaining a perfectly aligned smile. Orthodontic issues cause a myriad of issues that can be detrimental to your oral and overall health, such as gum disease, indigestion, jaw pain, headaches, cavities, etc.

Before we get acquainted with the different procedures that fall under orthodontics, let’s take a quick peek at what orthodontics is all about.

Understanding Orthodontics

Most probably, when you hear the term orthodontics, metal braces come to mind. Orthodontics involves using dental appliances to create a functional and healthy bite. A healthy and functional bite is dependent on jaw position and tooth alignment. When your teeth and jaws align as they were designed to, they will function perfectly. You will also end up with a stunning smile.

When your teeth are misaligned, it might be a nightmare to clean; chewing might not be pleasant, leading to headaches and a myriad of other unpleasant symptoms.

Orthodontic procedures aim to deal with the following issues:

• Spacing
• Open
• bite
• Crossbite
• Overbite
• Underbite
• Crowding
• Misplaced midline

Our dentist in Chicago will use orthodontic appliances to correct any of the above issues. Without further ado, let’s check out the various orthodontic procedures.

Orthodontic Procedures

In a nutshell, any procedure that improves your bite, aligns your teeth, and uses a removable or fixed appliance to do so, is an orthodontic procedure. Some of the procedures might be extensive and may take some years to complete, while others might take a few months.

Fixed Appliances

Fixed appliances are widely used in orthodontics. Some of the fixed appliances that our orthodontist near you offers are:

• Braces

Braces have been used for a long time and are the most common orthodontic appliance. They are known for their bands, wires, and brackets. They are best suited for severe orthodontic issues, and when they are placed over the teeth, they will be removed when you have completed your treatment. That’s why they are categorized under fixed appliances.

Since dental technology has evolved, we have various braces, such as metal braces, which are the most common. Then, there are ceramic braces, which are similar to metal braces but are tooth-colored to enhance dental aesthetics. You can also go for self-ligating braces that are aesthetically pleasing and more comfortable than metal ones.

Lastly, lingual braces are designed to be discreet since they are placed behind your teeth against the inner surfaces.

• Special Fixed Appliances

If your child has a thumb-sucking or tongue-thrusting habit, you may need to use special fixed appliances. These appliances are attached to their teeth to break these teeth-damaging habits. But, proceed with caution since these devices are used as a last resort since they are a bit uncomfortable, especially when eating.

• Fixed Space Maintainers

Fixed space maintainers are designed for kids. If your toddler loses a tooth prematurely, our dentist in Chicago may recommend that your kid uses space maintainers to keep the space unoccupied until the permanent tooth erupts.

Removable Appliances

Mostly, removable dental appliances are made from high-quality plastic and are appropriate for adults since they offer discretion. Some of the removable appliances that you may encounter will include:

• Aligners

Aligners are an excellent alternative to conventional metal braces since they are discreet, more comfortable, and removable. Plus, they are as effective in dealing with most orthodontic issues are traditional metal braces. Some of the common aligners are Invisalign® and ClearCorrect.

• Palatal Expanders

These are removable appliances used on patients who have a smaller upper jaw. The purpose of palatal expanders is to widen the upper jaw. These appliances are excellent for kids and teenagers since their jaws are still developing.

• Jaw Repositioning Appliances

These appliances help train the upper or lower jaw to close properly. They are usually used to deal with temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ)>

• Retainers

Retainers are orthodontic appliances that are used after you complete your orthodontic treatment. They help the teeth remain in their new positions, thus preventing them from reverting to their old positions.

• Headgear

Our orthodontist may recommend headgear to slow down the growth of your upper jaw. The headgear is strapped around the back of your head and then attached to a metal wire at the front. They are also designed to pull back the front teeth while keeping the posterior teeth in position.

In case you are wondering about teeth braces cost or which option might be appropriate in your scenario, contact us at Dental Impressions, and we would love to assist you.