What is orthodontics?
Orthodontics uses custom oral appliances to improve the alignment of your teeth and jaw. Aside from making your smile appear more balanced and symmetrical, orthodontics reduces the risk of oral health problems caused by crowding and malocclusion (an abnormal bite).
At Fresh Dental Care, Dr. Yoon and the team offer orthodontic treatment to adults, children, and teens. No matter your age, it’s possible to achieve the smile of your dreams.
What types of issues can orthodontic treatment correct?
Dr. Yoon and the team use orthodontic treatment to correct various issues, including:
- Crooked and overlapping teeth
- Crowding
- Crossbite
- Overbite
- Underbite
- Gaps between teeth
You might also benefit from orthodontic treatment if you have a misaligned or malpositioned jaw.
Are there different types of orthodontics?
Dr. Yoon and the team offer several types of orthodontic treatment, including:
Traditional braces
Traditional braces are bonded to the front of your natural teeth. They use a combination of metal archwires, brackets, and rubber bands to place mild pressure on your teeth and jaw. Over time, that pressure gradually aligns your smile.
Lingual braces
Lingual braces are very similar to traditional braces. The main difference is that lingual braces are bonded to the back of your teeth instead of the front. That allows you to undergo orthodontic treatment without anyone knowing.
How does orthodontic treatment work?
Orthodontic treatment begins with an oral exam, 3D oral X-rays, and a review of your dental health history. If Dr. Yoon discovers any moderate to severe alignment issues, he develops a custom treatment plan.
After explaining the treatment process in-depth, Dr. Yoon takes impressions of your mouth. He sends your impressions to a dental laboratory that manufactures a set of custom braces.
When the lab finishes your braces, you return to Fresh Dental Care and Dr. Yoon bonds them to your teeth. Throughout orthodontic treatment, you visit the office every few weeks for routine checkups and adjustments.
How long does treatment with orthodontics take?
Orthodontic treatment takes anywhere between 12 and 18* months. To ensure the process goes smoothly, closely adhere to Dr. Yoon’s instructions.
Brush and floss daily, visit Fresh Dental Care for each scheduled appointment, and avoid bad habits like nail-biting or chewing on ice cubes.
If you play sports or lead a physically active lifestyle, wear a mouthguard to protect your gums and lips from cuts and lacerations.
When you’re finished wearing braces, Dr. Yoon has you transition to a retainer. A retainer is an orthodontic appliance that prevents your teeth from returning to their original position.
To explore the benefits of orthodontics, make an appointment at Fresh Dental Care by calling the office today or scheduling online.
