If you’ve never needed orthodontic treatment as a child, then finding out that you might need it as an adult could be even more disconcerting. However, even adult teeth that have already fully developed can eventually grow out of alignment due to a number of different factors. For example, excessive force from bruxism or a bite imbalance from a lost tooth can cause your teeth to shift. When they do, the misalignment in your bite can lead to a host of dental health concerns, including diminished bite function, increased risks of dental disease, TMJ disorder, and more.
What Orthodontic Treatment Means
Orthodontics is the study and treatment of misaligned teeth and often employs the use of brackets and wires to straighten them. After carefully examining and diagnosing your tooth misalignment, your dentist can carefully determine the ideal alignment and positioning of your teeth. Then, he can plan the best path of movement to realign them and design treatment with the appropriate type of orthodontic braces.
The Benefits of Straighter Teeth
When your teeth are crooked, your first clue may be the way they make your smile look. Therefore, one of the most notable benefits of orthodontic treatment is an improved smile. However, more subtle effects of crooked teeth include difficulty biting and chewing, sensitivity in your teeth and gum tissues, and an increased risk of issues like tooth decay and gum disease. The more significant benefits of orthodontic treatment is addressing these issues and reducing your risks of experiencing subsequent dental health concerns.
Ask Your Dentist About Modern Orthodontics
If your teeth aren’t aligned properly, then orthodontic treatment can benefit your oral health, your bite function, and your smile’s appearance all at once. To learn more, schedule an appointment by calling Lathrop Dental Center in Katy, TX at 832-437-3849. We proudly welcome patients and families from Katy, Fulshear, Weston Lakes, Simonton, Richmond, Rosenberg, Brookshire, Wallis, Orchard, Cypress, Sealy, Columbus, and all surrounding communities.