Sciota, Pennsylvania
Thinking about correcting misaligned teeth or bite problems but unsure about the process? You’re not alone. Many people hesitate because they don’t know what orthodontic care entails.
Delaying treatment can cause orthodontic issues to worsen over time, which is why it’s important to understand what orthodontic care involves and take action sooner rather than later.
The First Step: Comprehensive Assessment
Orthodontic treatment begins with a thorough evaluation of your teeth and how your jaws come together.
During this exam, we look for conditions such as:
- Gaps between teeth
- Overcrowding
- Midline misalignment
- Bite irregularities
Gaps in teeth can create noticeable spaces that affect your smile’s appearance and may trap plaque, increasing the risk of cavities and gum problems.
Overcrowding happens when your jaw doesn’t have enough room to accommodate all your teeth, causing some to shift, tilt, or rotate. This can lead to crooked teeth that are harder to clean and may impact your confidence.
Midline misalignment refers to when the center of your upper and lower teeth don’t line up with the center of your face, which can affect the symmetry of your smile.
Bite issues, such as overbite, underbite, and crossbite, can range from minor aesthetic concerns to more serious functional problems that affect chewing and jaw comfort.
Referral to an Orthodontic Specialist When Needed
At Chestnuthill Dental, we’re equipped to manage a wide range of orthodontic cases. However, if your condition is complex and requires specialized care beyond our scope, we will connect you with an orthodontic expert to ensure you receive the best possible treatment.
Our practice includes several dental specialists, so we understand the value of collaborative care. When a referral is in your best interest, we won’t hesitate to guide you to the right professional.
Types of Orthodontic Appliances
Orthodontic treatments work by applying controlled pressure to teeth, guiding them into better positions. These devices come in two forms: fixed and removable.
Fixed Appliances
These devices are attached to your teeth and continuously exert pressure. They are ideal for cases that require consistent force or when patients may struggle with compliance.
Examples include:
- Traditional braces
- Fixed space maintainers
- Permanent retainers
Braces consist of brackets bonded to your teeth connected by wires, which gradually move your teeth into proper alignment.
Space maintainers are used to preserve space when a tooth is lost prematurely, helping prevent shifting while waiting for permanent solutions like implants.
Permanent retainers are bonded behind teeth to hold them in place after orthodontic treatment, especially when wearing removable retainers consistently is a challenge.
Removable Appliances
These can be taken out for eating, cleaning, or special occasions, offering greater flexibility. However, they require disciplined use to be effective.
Common removable options are:
- Clear aligners (such as Invisalign or ClearCorrect)
- Removable retainers
Clear aligners are custom-made plastic trays worn in a series to gradually shift teeth. They are discreet and don’t require dietary restrictions or special hygiene routines.
Removable retainers help keep your teeth in their new positions after treatment and are typically worn as directed to maintain your smile.
Your Role in a Successful Outcome
Orthodontics is a proven science with predictable results, but your participation is key.
For fixed appliances, your main responsibility is maintaining regular appointments and following instructions on oral hygiene and diet to avoid damage.
For removable devices, you’ll need to wear your appliances as prescribed — usually about 22 hours a day for aligners — and keep them clean. Avoid eating or drinking anything but water while wearing them to protect both your teeth and the device.
Following your orthodontist’s guidance will help you achieve the best results on schedule.
Start Your Orthodontic Journey with Chestnuthill Dental
Curious about how orthodontic treatment can improve your smile? Schedule a consultation with Chestnuthill Dental today by calling (570) 402-4001. We’ll provide a thorough evaluation and customized treatment plan to help you achieve a healthier, more confident smile.
