Orthodontics Guides

Orthodontics

Few people are born with a perfectly aligned smile. If your teeth are crooked or misaligned, your dentist may recommend seeing an orthodontist to correct the alignment of your teeth. Orthodontic treatments are often recommended to both pre-teens and adults who are having problems with bite, or for those who want to improve the appearance of their teeth. Talk to an orthodontist in your area to find out if braces, instant orthodontics or other popular orthodontic treatments are right for you.

Your orthodontist will perform a comprehensive dental exam and recommend a treatment plan to get you the beautiful smile you've always wanted. Look at these orthodontics before and after pictures to see examples of successful outcomes with various orthodontic procedures.

Orthodontics Procedures

Orthodontics procedures typically begin with the orthodontic evaluation that involves an oral, facial and functional examination; intraoral and facial photographs; panoramic and cephalometric X-rays; and the creation of impressions for models of your teeth and bite. Your orthodontist will review your dental records and history, analyze your X-rays and recommend a treatment plan based on the results.

Dental braces are the most common type of orthodontic procedure performed on pre-teens and adults who want to improve the appearance of their teeth. Instant orthodontics is an attractive option for those who have healthy teeth and only need some minor corrections. 

Some of the most commonly performed orthodontics procedures include:

• Invisalign
• Invisilift
• Clear Correct
• Instant orthodontics – use of veneers and crowns to close gaps and correct uneven teeth
• Gold brackets (dental brace material)
• Mouth guards

Advantages of Orthodontics Procedures

• Eliminates risk of teeth crowding
• Corrects misalignment of the jawbone and structure
• Improves muscular functional habits
• Some costs can be covered by insurance (read more about costs of restorative dentistry)
• Some treatments can produce results within a year

Disadvantages of Orthodontics Procedures

• May require extractions before and during treatment
• Teeth may need to be altered
• May require repeat treatment or surgery
• Not all procedures may be covered by dental insurance
• Full results may not be achieved until three years or longer, depending on treatments