If your teeth or your child’s teeth are crowded, misaligned, spaced too far apart, or meet abnormally, you should consider seeing an Orthodontist. Orthodontics aims to diagnose, prevent, & correct bad bite alignment. Why is this important? A good bite does not only help create a beautiful & healthy smile, it also makes it easier to bite, chew & speak. Orthodontic treatment can bring life-changing results. This blog will answer some commonly asked questions about Orthodontic treatment.
When should you schedule your child’s first Orthodontic consult?
The American Association of Orthodontics recommends your child to have their first Orthodontic consult at the age of seven. Abnormal bites usually become noticeable between 6 and 12; orthodontic treatment often begins between ages 8 and 14. Seven is the best age to determine if no Orthodontic treatment is expected in the future, treatment may be needed in the future, or there is an existing problem that requires early treatment; however, the sooner these problems are found, the easier & faster it will be to correct them.
Which are some signs to go see an Orthodontic?
- Loss of baby teeth early or late
- Challenging to chew or bite
- Thumb sucking habits
- Crowded teeth
- Protruding teeth or jaw
- Speech Difficulty
- You are biting your cheek
- Cross-bites, Under-bites & over-bites
- Teeth that don’t meet properly
- Out-of-proportion facial features
- Inability to close lips
Are Orthodontics just for kids?
No. Adults can also be treated since Orthodontics can help people of any age achieve a healthy smile. At Sage Dental, we have many Orthodontists at multiple locations that are more than happy to help adults & children with their orthodontic treatment.
Can untreated orthodontic problems cause problems with my teeth or my health?
Yes. If you need braces or other orthodontic treatment, and you don’t proceed to complete this treatment, your smile and your overall oral health will be affected. Not correcting abnormal bites could cause tooth decay, gum disease, tooth loss, jaw problems, abnormal wear to tooth enamel & more.
What are the different kinds of braces you can get?
Metal Braces: These are commonly known as “Traditional Braces.” They have brackets attached to the front of your teeth or bands around each tooth & are connected by a wire.
Ceramic braces: These are traditional braces made with tooth-colored ceramic brackets & are not as noticeable as metal braces.
Clear aligners: Also called “Invisible braces”, “clear aligners” or “Invisalign”. These are removable clear plastic trays that you wear 24 hours a day, except when eating.
The benefits of braces.
Enhanced appearance: Your beautiful straight smile from braces treatment can help boost your self-confidence & self-esteem.
Improve oral health: Avoids oral health and other health problems that can lead to more severe issues such as tooth decay & gum disease from issues are left untreated.
Improve dental function: Avoids jaw joint damage.
Do braces cause pain?
Some people may experience a little bit of discomfort for the first few days since your mouth is adapting to your new braces. Otherwise, wearing braces should not be painful.
Some foods to avoid if wearing traditional braces
- Ice
- Candy
- Gum
- Uncut raw carrots
- Caramel
Important reminder about Clear Aligners
Although you can remove your clear aligners to eat, brushing your teeth before putting them back in your mouth after each meal is recommended. This is important to avoid food from being trapped in the aligners, which could lead to other dental problems.
Affordable Orthodontic treatment
At Sage, we offer new patients free Orthodontic consultations along wtih financing options that do not require a credit check. We also accept most insurances & we are currently offering $500 off braces or clear aligners. But hurry! This offer is expiring August 31, 2022! Find a location near you today!
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