Children, adolescents, and adults with crooked teeth or a misaligned bite can benefit from traditional orthodontics. Orthodontics is a specialized field of dentistry that focuses on the treatment of improper bite with braces, retainers, headgear, and other appliances. It used to be that orthodontic appliances were only used on children and adolescents, but more and more adults are choosing braces. In fact, roughly 30 percent of new orthodontic braces treatments are being done on adults.

Candidates for Orthodontics

Generally speaking, braces are ideal for children between 10 and 14 years of age. Crooked teeth and bites are most easily corrected during these years because the jaw and other structures are still developing. Orthodontic procedures on adults can be more involved, since these facial structures are already developed. Either way, orthodontic treatments are often used to correct the following conditions:

• Buck teeth - Protrusion of the upper front teeth, in some cases they may begin to angle outward.
• Overbite – Lower jaw is set too far back.
• Underbite – Lower jaw is set too far forward.
• Crossbite – Lower teeth fit to either side of the upper teeth when biting down.
• Open bites – Upper and lower front teeth do not overlap and close, leaving an open space between the two sets of teeth when the jaw is closed.
• Crowded teeth – A jaw that is too small can cause crowding, and in some cases impaction. Impaction occurs due to severe crowding, when a tooth is not allowed to come in, or erupt.
• Excessive gaps - An oversized, overdeveloped jaw can cause gaps to develop between multiple teeth.
• Off-centered midline - This occurs when the line between the two upper front teeth does not line up with the center line of the bottom teeth.

Orthodontic treatment with braces typically takes two years, depending on the extent of the condition and the patient’s age. Braces are usually followed up by the use of a retainer. Retainers are usually worn day and night for several months and then periodically after that. Clear, removable Invisalign braces are becoming a very popular option for many adults. A consultation with an orthodontist will determine whether Invisalign is right for you.

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If you live in Southern Oregon and are in need of orthodontic treatment, we can help. Please contact us today to arrange an appointment.