A proven, long-term solution to straightening your teeth and correcting your bite are orthodontic treatments. Orthodontics is an area of dentistry that focuses on aligning and straightening teeth using wires and brackets, applying gentle pressure to the teeth to move them into a particular, desired position. The discipline has advanced over decades and today treatment is a lot faster and more comfortable than it was in the past.
Here is an overview of orthodontics:
- Patients who have problems with their bite and the way their top and bottom teeth line up are good candidates for orthodontic treatment.
- Impressions, photos and x-rays are taken at the start of treatment to determine the course of action.
- Brackets are bonded to individual teeth and wires clip onto them that gently guide the teeth into position over time.
- Good oral hygiene habits are essential during treatment and regular visits are required for check-ups and adjustments.