The smile is the first thing people notice, and it has a significant impact on one’s confidence. Unfortunately, not everyone is born with perfect teeth. Crooked teeth are unsightly and can lead to tooth decay, periodontitis (gum disease), and other health problems.
Fortunately, there are numerous methods for correcting crooked teeth. They may appear costly and time-consuming, but they benefit oral health and appearance.
What Causes Crooked Teeth?
Teeth are among the most resilient tissues in the body. They are also required to talk, eat, and smile. However, teeth can become misaligned on occasion. There are numerous possible explanations for this, including
- Thumb-sucking. Thumb-sucking can pressure the front teeth, causing them to become crooked.
- Genetics. You are more likely to have crooked teeth if your parents or grandparents have them.
- Poor dental hygiene. Plaque and tartar will accumulate on your teeth if you do not brush and floss regularly, causing them to become misshapen.
- Mouth or face injury. Misaligned teeth can result from a mouth or face injury.
Crooked Teeth Corrections
If you have crooked teeth, the first step is to see an orthodontist for an evaluation at Wince Family Dental Associates. They will examine your teeth and recommend the best course of action. They may recommend one or more of the following treatments depending on the severity of your condition:
Braces
Metal braces are a common and effective method of correcting severely crooked teeth. The teeth are gradually shifted into the desired position by applying pressure with braces.
Retainers
It keeps teeth in place after orthodontic treatment, such as braces or clear aligners. They can also be used to make minor adjustments to the teeth over time.
Dental Veneers
To improve the appearance of teeth, thin, custom-made shells are bonded to the front surface. They can correct minor tooth position and shape issues.
Dental Bonding
It entails applying a tooth-colored resin to the surface of the teeth to enhance their appearance. It can be used to fix minor alignment issues and cosmetic flaws.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners like Invisalign are gaining popularity as non-metal brace alternatives. They gradually shift the teeth into the proper position using a series of clear, removable, custom-made trays. However, because they lack the force of traditional braces, they are not recommended for complex orthodontic problems.
To know how much is Invisalign. It is best to consult with a licensed orthodontist or dentist who offers Invisalign to get an accurate quote. The cost of Invisalign can vary depending on the complexity of the case and the location of the provider.
Is Invisalign Appropriate for Children?
Invisalign is a well-known brand of tooth-straightening aligners that are clear. It can be used on children and adolescents but is usually recommended for older adolescents or adults with all their permanent teeth. Children between 12 and 13 typically have all their adult teeth. However, due to the uniqueness of each child’s development, some children may not have them at these ages.
If this is the case, Invisalign may be a viable option for children responsible and committed to adhering to the treatment plan. To ensure that the treatment is progressing as planned, Invisalign requires consistent wear of the aligners (at least 22 hours per day), proper cleaning and maintenance, and regular visits to the orthodontist.
In rare cases, children as young as nine may require braces due to orthodontic issues. Traditional braces may be preferable in these cases.
An experienced pediatric dentist or orthodontist should determine whether Invisalign is a good option for a child after thoroughly evaluating the child’s oral health and orthodontic needs.
What Is Pediatric Dentistry?
Pediatric dentistry concerns the oral health of infants, children, adolescents, and people with disabilities. Pediatric dentists are specially trained to provide children with preventative, restorative, and emergency dental care.
Pediatric dentists here are trained to provide children with age-appropriate dental care and a positive dental experience. They work hard to build trusting relationships with their young patients and parents, making every dental visit enjoyable. They also educate parents and children on proper oral hygiene practices and nutritional advice. Consult a pediatric dentist to see if Invisalign is right for your child.
Conclusion
Brushing, flossing and having a beautiful smile are not enough to maintain good oral health. It entails keeping our teeth, gums, and other oral structures healthy to eat, speak and interact comfortably. Crooked teeth, on the other hand, can be both embarrassing and harmful to your health. They can undermine your self-esteem and confidence, making you self-conscious about your smile and appearance. Consult an experienced pediatric dentist or orthodontist to determine the best treatment option.
