Orthodontics.

At Beyond Smiles Family Dental, we are committed to helping you achieve a healthy, beautifully aligned smile. Orthodontic treatments can correct misaligned teeth, bite issues, and jaw problems, improving not only the appearance of your smile but also your overall dental health. We offer a range of orthodontic solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of children, teenagers, and adults.

What is orthodontics?

Orthodontics is a specialized field of dentistry focused on diagnosing, preventing, and correcting misalignments of the teeth and jaws. Misaligned teeth can cause issues with chewing, speech, and overall oral health. By using orthodontic devices like braces or clear aligners, we can gradually reposition teeth into their correct alignment.
Common orthodontic issues we treat:

• Crowded teeth: When there is not enough space for all teeth to fit properly, resulting in overlapping or crooked teeth.
• Spacing issues: Gaps or spaces between teeth, which can affect both appearance and oral function.
• Overbite: A condition where the upper front teeth excessively overlap the lower front teeth.
• Underbite: When the lower teeth protrude beyond the upper teeth, often causing difficulty with biting and chewing.
• Crossbite: A misalignment where one or more upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth.
• Open bite: A condition where the front teeth do not make contact when the mouth is closed, often caused by thumb-sucking or tongue-thrusting habits.
• Jaw misalignment: Issues with how the jaws fit together, which can lead to discomfort, headaches, or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problems.

Types of orthodontic treatments: At Beyond Smiles Family Dental, we offer a range of orthodontic options, including traditional braces and modern, discreet solutions like clear aligners.

1. Traditional Metal Braces:
   • Traditional braces consist of metal brackets and wires that apply gentle pressure to gradually move teeth into their correct positions. These braces are highly effective for correcting more severe misalignments and bite issues.
   • Modern braces are more comfortable than ever, and you can even customize them with colored bands for a more personalized look.
2. Ceramic Braces:
   • Ceramic braces function similarly to metal braces but are made from tooth-colored or clear materials, making them less noticeable. They are a great option for patients who prefer a more discreet appearance but need the reliability of traditional braces.
3. Clear Aligners (Invisalign):
   • For those seeking a nearly invisible orthodontic solution, clear aligners such as Invisalign are a popular choice. These removable, custom-made trays are worn over the teeth to gently shift them into place. Aligners are an ideal option for those with mild to moderate alignment issues and are particularly favored by adults and teenagers who want a discreet alternative to braces.
   • The aligners are removable, allowing for easy cleaning and the ability to eat and drink without restrictions.
4. Retainers:
   • After completing orthodontic treatment, a retainer is typically worn to maintain the new position of the teeth. Retainers can be either removable or fixed and are essential for preventing teeth from shifting back to their original positions.

Orthodontics for children and teenagers: Early orthodontic intervention can significantly impact a child’s dental development. We recommend that children have an orthodontic evaluation by the age of 7. Early treatment can help guide jaw growth, create space for crowded teeth, and prevent more serious issues from developing later in life.

Orthodontics for adults: Orthodontic treatment isn’t just for children and teenagers. Many adults choose to improve their smiles and correct alignment issues that were never addressed in their younger years. With modern orthodontic solutions like clear aligners, adult patients can enjoy a discreet and comfortable treatment experience.