A Few Questions About Orthodontics
Posted on: 29 December 2015
The term orthodontics refers to a specialized field of dentistry that is concerned with facial abnormalities. This most commonly includes the straightening of crooked teeth, and an orthodontist is usually the one to apply braces and other such devices or treatments to teeth in order to make them straight. Note a few of the most commonly asked questions about orthodontics so you can better understand when and why you might need such professional care.
1. When should a child visit an orthodontist?
Your family dentist can usually tell you when it's time to have your child evaluated by an orthodontist so you can know if he or she will need braces or other forms of tooth straightening, but usually it's good if their first evaluation is done even before their baby teeth fall out and their adult teeth have grown in completely. An orthodontist can note if they seem to be having problems with their emerging teeth and their jaw line and ensure their adult teeth come in healthy and strong. For many children, their first visit should be done even before age 7, but talk to your family dentist about what he or she would recommend.
2. Can braces be worn even with missing teeth or crowns?
Even if teeth are missing or if teeth have crowns, you can usually have braces applied to straighten your other teeth. Crowns are meant to be a permanent part of the tooth itself, and these will shift with the tooth, and remaining teeth will also be adjusted around the areas of missing teeth. Your orthodontist can note if braces are your best option if you're missing teeth or if you might consider a tooth implant instead, but don't assume you cannot get your teeth straightened just because one or more are missing or because you have crowns.
3. Why are orthodontics recommended for health?
If your dentist recommends tooth straightening for your overall health, note that misaligned teeth may be more prone to cutting the cheeks and gums or may not be supporting the upper jaws as they should. In turn, you could have pain in the face or even shoulder and neck areas. You may also have a hard time chewing properly with severely misaligned teeth and in turn, your diet may be suffering. There are a number of reasons why you might consider orthodontics for your overall health, so be sure you talk to your dentist and orthodontist about needed procedures rather than dismissing their recommendations.
For more information, contact a local orthodontics clinic.
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