Orthodontic Earlsfield
Dove Dental & Wellbeing Spa has extensive experience with orthodontic treatment, which can help correct poor bite alignment, and improve your oral health if you have crooked teeth or an overly crowded mouth. Whether you’re seeking to improve your confidence or correct dental issues, our dentists will help you select the best course of action for your specific situation and needs. Orthodontist services include braces, Invisalign, retainers, and more from our team of qualified professionals at Dove Dental & Wellbeing Spa in Earlsfield. Call today!
What Is An Orthodontist And What Do They Do?
Orthodontists are specialist dentists who deal with various dental procedures, but their primary focus is on corrective orthodontics, more commonly known as braces. By straightening teeth and correcting jaw alignment through a variety of methods (many of which can be done without surgery), orthodontists help patients smile with confidence.
Orthodontists specialise in treating all types of dental problems, including:
- Orthodontic difficulties like an overbite or an underbite
- Overcrowded teeth, or teeth that are too close together
- Jaw misalignment
- Crooked teeth
The goal of orthodontic care is to improve the position of a patient’s teeth, so teeth will align properly. A healthy bite is important so you can enjoy food and other things like talking and moving.
What To Expect From A Visit To The Orthodontist
If you’re thinking about orthodontic treatment, there’s no denying that it might seem a little intimidating at first. While we all have different experiences, you can expect to start with an exam and consultation where your teeth will be thoroughly examined and charted; your dentist will explain what he or she sees, offer recommendations, and answer any questions you may have. An impression (mould) of your teeth will be taken for use in producing a custom-made retainer that helps keep your teeth in place during treatment. You can expect to wear this retainer most of the time. On certain days and nights during treatment, it’s worn at all times except when eating soft foods such as pudding, yoghurt or ice cream.
How Do Braces Work?
The bracket screws onto your teeth, and then braces are set in place on the bracket, aiming to move the teeth in a way to realign them. If you’re curious about how braces work, you’ll want to consult with an orthodontist, like me, who can look at your teeth and see if it is possible to offer you braces. Contact us today for more information.
Orthodontic Treatment Benefits
Improved visible appearance
Being proud of your smile is one of the obvious benefits of orthodontic treatment. Those who are satisfied with their smile are more confident and self-assured around other people. It’s no wonder that parents want to provide their children with the best chances of success and that adults often get treated for reasons concerning their personal and professional lives.
Reduced risk of disease and injury
You might experience improved physical health if your teeth and jaws are properly aligned. In particular, straighter teeth are less susceptible to decay, gum disease, and injury. Those with straighter teeth tend to collect less plaque, reducing the risk of gum disease. Upright teeth are more prone to injury so it can be better to recontour and realign them to be as stable as possible.
Your oral health will improve
When teeth are properly aligned, it is easier to maintain oral hygiene. Mismatched teeth can also cause abrasive wear on tooth surfaces, inefficient chewing, jaw strain, gum pain, and bony problems. In rare cases, misalignment of the jaw joints can result in chronic headaches or pain in the face or neck. Orthodontic treatment can mean more than just straighter teeth. All that should make you smile!
Strain on the joints and jaw muscles reduced
There are orthodontic issues that make it more difficult for a person to chew his or her food, which could lead to stomach problems in the long run. Some of these issues also make it easier for a person to bite their tongue or the inner cheeks, which not only causes pain but can also lead to infections. These shortcomings are acknowledged by the brain and thus your mouth has to chew in an unappealing manner. It will place stress on the jaw muscles and joints.
Your Orthodontic Options:
All orthodontic treatments involve using appliances that straighten your teeth, but there are a few different types of braces you can choose from. To help make your decision easier, we’ve outlined three common treatment options below:
Metal Braces
The most common type of braces is metal or traditional braces, which have been around for more than a hundred years. It used to be the case that braces were quite bulky and noticeable. Thanks to technological advancements and advancements in innovation, today’s braces are completely different from what they were a hundred years ago. They are now smaller, faster, more comfortable and effective. Metal braces have metal brackets affixed to your teeth and bands secured to your mouth with rubber bands.
For children and teenagers, metal braces are most popular because they are installed and connected to the teeth by metal wires. The wire is bound to the braces with elastic ties which come in a range of colours to choose from. To shift the teeth, the orthodontist alters the wire at your appointments every 4-8 weeks.
Ceramic Braces (Clear Braces)
Braces that are made from a clear, tooth-coloured material work in the same way as metal braces, but are less conspicuous and visible. Ceramic braces are the most popular option for patients who do not want to take a step back with less effective solutions, such as Invisalign or lingual braces, but who want their teeth to be straight in a comfortable and more attractive way. These patients tend to be people who have concerns about appearance and wish to look their best at all times.
Ceramic braces are much less visible than metal braces, though you may have to replace them every six months because of damage. These are not for everyone, but we think they remain a valuable instrument in our orthodontic arsenal.
Invisalign
Invisalign is great for patients who already had braces, or have been previously adjusted with some other type of aligner system. It is best for mild to moderate dental problems like overbite, no jaw alignment, and small gaps in front teeth.
Invisalign is a popular option because:
- They are clear and transparent
- They are removable
- Designed to enable easy brushing and flossing
- Faster than braces for some limited treatments
- may require fewer appointments
How Long Does The Treatment Take?
The process usually takes around two years, though some treatments can take up to five years. However long it takes, getting braces can be a great way to improve your smile, and your oral health for years to come. If you’re interested in learning more about orthodontic treatment for patients at Dove Dental & Wellbeing Spa in Earlsfield or if you want to schedule an appointment with our team, please contact us today!
Orthodontic FAQs
Can Adults Have Orthodontic Treatment?
While orthodontic treatment can be pursued by adults at any age, the options are more limited and do not begin until one has excellent oral hygiene. With treatment, the risks of cavities and gum disease may increase.
How Often Should I Brush My Teeth When Wearing Braces?
For oral hygiene, while wearing braces, you are encouraged to brush at least twice per day and after eating. Gargling (with water or mouthwash) may also be necessary.
Are There Any Foods I Can’t Eat While Wearing Braces?
You should avoid eating raw vegetables, hard sweets, nuts, crusty bread, and sticky foods such as chewing gum and toffee, as these may damage your brace or loosen the wires. If you are wearing Invisalign or other removable aligners, there are no dietary restrictions because you can remove the aligners before eating or drinking. If you eat or drink anything like coffee, tea, red wine, or curry while you’re wearing your aligners, they might stain your appliance! Don’t forget to put them back in!
What Should I Do If I Require Emergency Treatment?
If something isn’t quite right, please contact our practice so that we can come up with a solution that fits you. Many problems can be taken care of by telephone, but it is sometimes necessary to book an appointment.
Benefits of Invisible Treatment
If you’re considering orthodontic treatment but do not like the thought of fixed braces, then clear aligners could prove the ideal solution. Our patients love the fact that they are:
