Orthodontics Overview

Orthodontist Holmdel NJ

The goal of orthodontics is to correct malocclusion – a bad bite. Teeth may be crowded or crooked or the upper and lower jaws may be out of alignment. Occasionally, even when teeth appear straight, the patient may have a bite which is not even, and which may be causing further dental problems. Malocclusions may be inherited familiarly, may be developmental or may be caused by poor oral habits such as thumb sucking or tongue thrusting.

Orthodontic treatment seeks to address any or all of these problems. The goal of orthodontic treatment is not only to create an attractive smile, but to develop a bite which can promote oral health. Straight, uncrowded teeth are a lot easier to keep clean. Crooked, crowded teeth are much more difficult to maintain and can lead to tooth decay and periodontal disease.

Orthodontics utilizes physics to slowly move teeth into the proper position. This is performed by using corrective appliances. – With braces, brackets are placed on the teeth.  Arch wires are then placed in the brackets.  The tension and tightness of these wires determines the individual movement of each tooth. Orthodontics applies constant pressure to make teeth in a desired direction. By adjusting the pressure at follow up visits, an orthodontist controls the movement of the teeth until the malocclusion is corrected. Orthodontic treatment can last from one to three years or longer depending on the patient’s age and severity of the malocclusion. Retainers are worn to help ensure teeth remain in their new position after braces have been removed.

Orthodontists specialize in correcting a variety of dental and facial problems. Some of the issues revised by orthodontic procedures include difficulty chewing, crowding of teeth, missing teeth, speech difficulties, protruding teeth, and lips, irregular bite, facial imbalances, and narrow airways causing breathing problems.

Methods

The most common form of orthodontic treatment is the installation of dental braces that help straighten teeth, remove gaps, and correct overbites. Braces are often used in conjunction with other orthodontic appliances such as headgear and expansion appliances to influence the growth of teeth in younger patients. Retainers are often worn to help ensure teeth remain in their new position after braces have been removed. The American Dental Association states that in some cases, orthodontists may choose to use surgery to modify the teeth and jaw.

Time Frame

The American Association of Orthodontist suggest that children have their first orthodontic consultation no later than 7 years of age. While many people have corrective orthodontic procedures done early in their lives, it is not uncommon for adults and even seniors to undergo orthodontic treatments. Depending on the specific problems of the patient and the methods used to correct them, orthodontic treatments can last as few as six months but may take three years or more to complete in severe cases. 

Considerations

Straight teeth are easier to keep clean and are more effective in biting, chewing, and speaking than teeth with abnormalities. People who have had orthodontic treatments also report having fewer dental complications later in life.

If you are looking for a highly trained and experienced orthodontist in Morganville, you have come to the right place. At our practice, you will receive the highest quality orthodontic care. Dr. Wisniewski uses the latest state-of-the-art equipment and cutting-edge technology and we uphold the strictest sterilization techniques. Many people may feel anxious about coming to the orthodontist, so it is our goal to make your visit with us as pain and anxiety free as possible. We view it as our mission to educate our patients about all of their orthodontic options and to help guide them to choose a treatment plan that is most suitable and appropriate for their needs.