Understanding Orthodontic Treatments

Orthodontics refers to the branch of dentistry that specializes in correcting tooth and jaw misalignment. Orthodontists create healthy, beautiful smiles using appliances like plastic aligners or traditional braces for kids and adults. Besides correcting aesthetic problems, orthodontic treatments manage complicated tooth and jaw issues that lead to TMJ syndrome and premature tooth loss. After completing their four years of dental school, orthodontists receive at least two more years of specialized training in an ADA-approved orthodontics program. 




You may be referred to an orthodontist if your dentist detects alignment abnormalities. After a comprehensive examination, an orthodontist can diagnose and treat the following problems with affordable braces or other orthodontic appliances:

• Overbites and underbites
• Crossbites
• Open bites
• Spacing or crowding
• Misplaced midlines

Various types of fixed and removable orthodontic appliances are used to move teeth, retrain muscles, and encourage or slow jaw growth. Here are the most common treatments performed by orthodontists:

• Traditional braces consist of brackets, wires, and bands that place tension on teeth and gradually reposition them. These affordable braces are worn for months or years to achieve the desired results.
• Removable plastic aligners are an almost-invisible alternative to traditional braces. They are removed before eating or brushing.
• Removable retainers are worn against the roof of the mouth to prevent teeth from moving back into previous positions after other orthodontic treatments.
• Fixed space maintainers keep a space open for a permanent tooth when a baby tooth is lost prematurely. Other maintainers may be removable.
• Palatal expanders are plastic plates used to widen the arch of the upper jaw.
• Splints are appliances used to reposition the top or lower jaw, and are often used to treat temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problems.
• Cheek or lip bumpers relieve pressure placed on the teeth by cheek or lip muscles.
• Headgear is worn to realign the front and back teeth and slow upper jaw growth.
• There are other fixed appliances that can control tongue-sucking or other behaviors. They are typically used as a last resort.

To get the dental care you deserve from an affordable dentist in Peoria, call Maple Shade Dental Group today or make an appointment.