Dallas, TX-Orthodontics are used by a cosmetic dentist to adjust the position and alignment of a patients teeth to improve their bite and give them a beautiful smile. Even though most orthodontics are used with teens or pre-teens, many adults are using them as well to correct problems they are having as well. The use of orthodontics has become so popular in recent years that over 30% of patients are of adult age.
A cosmetic dentist can use orthodontics to correct a variety of concerns with a patients teeth and both the magnitude of the treatment and its duration depend entirely on the specific patient and their needs. Partial orthodontics can be used to align a single tooth, or specific set of teeth in a patient’s mouth. In most cases a full set of orthodontics are used for a period of twelve to 36 months to correct for alignment of an entire mouth.
Orthodontics are most effective in younger patients because their teeth are still very mobile and it easy to correct for alignment. This means that the treatment period for younger patients can be shorter and their teeth will adjust more quickly. Older patients can still benefit greatly from orthodontics but the time it takes to make corrections will typically be a little longer.
Before a cosmetic dentist begins an orthodontic treatment, they will first do a complete evaluation of the patient’s mouth and teeth. This will involve an initial visit where the dentist will do a complete inspection of the patient’s teeth and gums to discover what corrective action is needed. They will also do a series of X-rays and may even do a panoramic X-ray that will be used to evaluate the current bite and smile of the patient as well as any other issues that need to be addressed as part of the treatment. The dentist may also make an impression of the patient’s mouth for reference before starting treatment. Once this initial evaluation is complete, the dentist will usually schedule a follow-up visit to discuss the procedure in more detail with the patient and they will usually outline a plan of treatment and a timeline.
Once the plan for the orthodontics is agreed, there may be some initial work that is needed with the patient’s teeth before the process begins. The dentist will want to address any cavities or problems with the patient’s teeth and may actually have to remove a few teeth to give the other teeth room to adjust. This decision depends entirely on the patient and will vary considerably.
Once the orthodontics are placed on a patients teeth, they will need to be adjusted at regular intervals. There will be several visits a month to the dentist for assessment and adjustments. The dentist will also do an evaluation of the patient’s progress at regular intervals to adjust the timeline of treatment if necessary. Once this process of adjustment is complete, the orthodontics are removed and the patient can enjoy their beautiful smile. With the proper oral hygiene the teeth should stay in perfect alignment for many years to come.