Orthodontics & Orthopedics in Trenton, Ontario

Orthodontics is a type of treatment that aligns your teeth and jaws into optimal position. Crooked teeth are more difficult to clean, which increases your chances of developing decay and gum disease. Misalignment can also place additional stress on your chewing muscles, which can cause TMJ symptoms like headaches and jaw, neck, and shoulder pain. In addition, crooked teeth can make you feel self-conscious about your smile, negatively impacting your self-confidence.

Orthodontic treatments aim to enhance your mouth’s overall health and give your smile a more attractive appearance for the long-term.

To determine if you require orthodontic treatment, you will need to visit your dentist or orthodontist for a checkup. During your checkup, the dentist will use special X-rays and photographs to see whether orthodontics would help your smile. Everything from your dental and medical history, the unique position of your teeth, and specific needs will be taken into account to determine if orthodontic treatment is right for you.

People with the following problems may benefit from orthodontic treatment:

• Overbite – When the upper teeth stick out (also known as buck teeth).
• Underbite – When the lower teeth stick out.
• Crossbite – When the upper teeth fail to come down in front of the lower teeth when closing your mouth.
• Open bite – When there is a space between your upper and lower teeth’s bite when closing your mouth.
• Overcrowding – When there isn’t enough space in your mouth to accommodate your teeth.
• Spacing issues – When there are gaps due to missing teeth.

Orthodontic treatment can involve both orthopedics and orthodontics. Orthopedics is often the first step of orthodontic treatment and involves using removable appliances to promote healthy teeth and bite development. Removable appliances can include aligners that shift your teeth into a better position without having to use metal wires or brackets. The benefit of aligners is that they can be removed prior to eating, brushing, or flossing. Other removable appliances can include removable space maintainers, palatal expanders, and removable retainers.

If removable appliances aren’t enough, fixes appliances may be required. Fixed appliances often involve using braces that are comprised of metal wires, bands, and brackets that are bonded to your teeth. Braces are often adjusted and tightened monthly to put tension on your teeth and give the dentist greater control to move your teeth into their desired position. This process can take several months to years depending on your case.

Trenton Dentistry is committed to working with you to give you your dream smile. We strive to gain your trust and confidence and we are here to help you through every stage of your dental care. Contact us to set up an appointment today.