Orthodontic Treatment – Crooked Teeth Straightened

Malocclusions, teeth protrusions, jaw problems, and cases that can trigger facial deformities are just some of the problems affecting the oral cavity. But not all dentists can treat these problems; at least they don’t have the license to do the treatment. There’s no need to fret if you have at least one of these cases though; your dentist can surely refer you to an orthodontist Texas

An orthodontist is the perfect professional to visit when you have crooked teeth or jaw problems. Treatment for these problems is not immediately implemented as there are a few initial steps to do. The orthodontist usually waits for most permanent teeth to erupt since this is the only time when the problem becomes obvious.

For youngsters, the recommended age for them to wear braces would be between 8 and 14. This is the age bracket wherein one’s facial bones are still on the growing process, making the teeth more susceptible to abnormal movements.

There are various preparations that need to be done prior to installing braces or other orthodontic devices. Without assessments and diagnosis, it would be impossible to determine the kind of device needed.

Assessment of the oral cavity

Just like physicians, nurses, and other health care professionals, an assessment before implementing a procedure is necessary. In orthodontics, the professional examines the entire oral cavity, which includes the teeth, dental arch, gums, and even the tongue.

X-rays

An undergoing x-ray is part of the assessment. Especially if not all permanent teeth have erupted, an x-ray is imperative to detect the position of the unerupted teeth.

Determining the type of x-ray varies from case to case. Perhaps the most common type is the panoramic x-ray. This visualizes the lower and upper teeth during the person’s normal bite. This x-ray also visualizes any teeth, which have not yet erupted.

There are some cases where a special head x-ray is ordered. This type assesses the position and current size of the jaws and its relationship to the teeth.

Plaster Models

In addition, our orthodontist would require taking plaster models. By letting the patient bite a soft and prepared component, the impression of the teeth together with the gums are taken. The component sticks to the oral cavity for a few minutes, removed and an exact copy of your oral cavity is acquired.

Digital scanning of the dental cast is also becoming a trend for better assessment. With digital scanning, determining the suitable treatment method can be attained at a faster rate.

Teeth Extraction

Teeth extraction is only done on selected patients. There are those who suffer from overcrowded teeth where installing braces can only succeed if one or more teeth are extracted. More so, teeth extraction is sometimes necessary to give more room for the other teeth to fit with one another.

Sometimes, there are severe cases where teeth extraction would not be sufficient. This prompts the orthodontist to perform a surgical procedure. When all the preparations have been completed, the braces can finally be installed. Call us and try the best comfort care dental today!