Our effective orthodontic treatments can address a multitude of dental problems, including:

1. Spacing and Overcrowding

Having unevenly spaced or overcrowded teeth are common among children, teens, and adults alike. Many patients have a noticeable gap between their two front teeth, which orthodontists refer to as a diastema. Aside from spaces and gaps, orthodontic treatments can correct overcrowded and crooked teeth. Traditional braces, in particular, straighten by applying gentle yet effective pressure on the teeth. An experienced orthodontist monitors the treatment throughout to ensure the patient is on the right track, or if adjustments are necessary.

2. Misaligned Jaw

In most cases, a misaligned jaw is due to an uneven bite. If a patient has crooked or crowded teeth, they may experience pain or discomfort in their jaw. This misalignment can cause problems with their temporomandibular joint (TMJ), resulting in facial aches, pains, and other complications. The right orthodontic treatment can help straighten teeth and reposition the jaw. Furthermore, correcting a misaligned jaw has an immensely positive impact on the facial structure: it allows the face to look more symmetrical.

3. Overbites, Underbites, and Open Bites

Malocclusions are common dental problems that orthodontic treatments can fix. Traditional metal braces and sometimes Invisalign® Clear Aligners can treat the following types of malocclusion:

• Overbites. An overbite involves a mild to a severe extension of the upper jaw in comparison to the lower jaw. As a result, the chin may look smaller or more sunken-in than normal, which can create problems when chewing food.
• Underbites. Opposite an overbite, an underbite involves a protruding lower jaw. This may cause the chin to look pushed forward and awkward, making it challenging to bite and chew.
• Open bites. In general, excessive pacifier use or thumb sucking cause an open bite. Such habits can leave a large gap between the anterior upper and lower teeth. The majority of children will outgrow an open bite once their baby teeth fall out and they stop using a pacifier or sucking their thumb. In some cases, however, it can still affect permanent teeth. Braces and Invisalign® can treat open bites with successful results.

4. Gum Problems

Severely misaligned teeth can make it difficult for people to brush the nooks and crannies of their teeth. Flossing might even be impossible for them because the teeth are too tight or are overlapping one another. These issues can create further problems and impact the gums, resulting in gingivitis and gum disease. The right orthodontic treatment near Montclair, CA can help push the teeth into a straighter and more aligned position, which plays a leading role in maintaining a clean and healthy oral cavity. Most patients find it easier to brush and floss when their teeth are beautifully straight instead of overlapping each other.

5. Unmatched Dental Midlines

The dental midline refers to the midsagittal line found between the upper and lower jaw. If the midline is off, even by a few millimeters, it can affect how the jaw sits and the face looks. Orthodontic treatments at 24/7 Local Dentist can help bring teeth back into alignment; therefore, creating a more symmetrical dental midline to enhance evenness and intercuspation. The latter term refers to the process of the cusps of the teeth fitting together correctly. It helps create an even and more comfortable bite.

6. Problems with Chewing and Talking

Dental misalignments can impact the way a patient speaks and chews. Overcrowding, crooked teeth and malocclusions are primary examples of issues that can hinder someone’s ability to chew certain foods or speak clearly. What few people know is that correcting mild speech impediments with dental braces is common and effective. The bulk of this correction comes from improving the alignment of the jaw, which affects the way a person chews and talks. As soon as the upper and lower teeth come into contact with more symmetry, it will improve a patient’s bite and pronunciation.

7. Self-Esteem Issues Related to an Imperfect Smile

One of the benefits of orthodontic treatments is its power to boost a child’s or adult’s self-esteem. For instance, if your teeth embarrass you and you actively avoid laughing because of how your chompers look, braces or Invisalign® can restore your lost confidence and allow you to be more carefree with your expressions. Correcting dental misalignments can change your appearance and your life, helping to improve your self-perception and confidence.

Braces vs. Invisalign®

The real question is, which orthodontic treatment is best for you?

Traditional metal braces are the most common form of orthodontic treatment. They are extremely efficient at fixing complex dental problems, and they sometimes work faster than Invisalign®. The treatment time varies from patient to patient and averages between 18 months to 3 years. Signs of improvement are noticeable early on.

On the other hand, Invisalign® Clear Aligners are a popular treatment option due to their detachable and invisible selling points. Invisalign® allows you to remove the aligners when brushing, flossing, eating, and when participating in extreme sports. You never have to worry about breaking a bracket or loosening a wire! The Invisalign® treatment time varies between 12 to 18 months, though you can start seeing results within a few weeks. Read 7 Invisalign Tips for a Seamless Experience for more helpful information.

Let 24/7 Local Dentist Help You Decide

Whether braces or Invisalign®, the treatment option you choose is more than about enhancing your smile — it is about improving your overall oral health. Therefore, it is important to find a provider who has several years of experience in cosmetic dentistry and teeth-straightening technologies. Here at 24/7 Local Dentist, we have been practicing general and cosmetic dentistry for over 52 years. Our reputable dentists can recommend which treatment option will best perfect your smile.

If you reside in the Los Angeles, Orange County or San Bernardino counties and are considering orthodontic treatment, contact us today to request an exam. 24/7 Local Dentist recognizes that the best orthodontic care starts with world-class communication, and our team specializes in making each patient feel right at home. Rest assured that with our care and treatments, your oral health is in good hands.