Orthodontics is a dental specialty that focuses on prevention, diagnosis, treatment, supervision, and guidance, of the dentofacial structures in adolescent or adult patients.
Do you think that you are too old to correct your crooked teeth? Think again! Due to dramatic improvements in treatment techniques and materials, adults now account for one out of four orthodontic patients in America. Every day, more adults discover the professional, social, and emotional benefits of having a healthy, beautiful, straight smile. Although traditional braces have improved considerably, one of the greatest advances in orthodontics was the introduction of Invisalign.
Clear, comfortable aligner trays replace the familiar metal brackets and wires in this system. Invisalign has made orthodontic treatment available to patients who are concerned about the appearance or inconvenience of traditional braces. Straightening your teeth can improve your confidence, appearance, and oral health. Because crooked teeth are difficult to clean, they increase your risk of leaving harmful plaque on your teeth, leading to cavities and gum disease.
The optimal timing of orthodontic treatment in children varies, depending on the specific condition and each child’s individual growth rate. We recommend that children have an initial orthodontic evaluation before the age of seven. Many well-meaning parents postpone this step until the child has permanent teeth; however, early diagnosis allows for precision timing of treatment. Early treatment is typically more efficient, less costly, and faster than delayed treatment.
Some of the signs that indicate an adult or child may need an orthodontic evaluation include:
Orthodontic treatment does more than just straighten teeth; it also influences the shape of your face and jaw alignment. By shifting teeth into proper positions, braces or aligners can balance facial proportions, improve lip alignment, and even enhance jawline definition. Properly aligned teeth and jaws also relieve pressure on the TMJ (temporomandibular joint), reducing risks of discomfort or jaw pain. Some patients experience noticeable changes in their profile, especially if they previously had bite issues like an overbite or underbite. Talk to your dentist about how orthodontic treatment could impact your overall facial appearance and jaw function to ensure the results meet both functional and aesthetic goals.
Healthy gums and strong bone density are essential for successful orthodontic treatment. Teeth shift by moving through the bone, so sufficient bone density is necessary to support these adjustments. If bone density is low, teeth may not stay in place, or the movement may cause damage. Additionally, gum health is crucial since swollen or receding gums can make it challenging for braces or aligners to function properly and may increase the risk of gum recession or bone loss. Before starting treatment, your dentist will assess your gum and bone health, and they might recommend periodontal treatment if needed. Maintaining good oral hygiene throughout treatment is key to ensuring that gums and bone remain strong, allowing for safe, effective teeth movement.
Orthodontic appliances can temporarily impact speech, particularly at the beginning of treatment. Braces or clear aligners can cause a slight lisp or alter pronunciation as your tongue adjusts to new positions. For some patients, adjustments in teeth position can improve speech clarity by aligning the teeth properly for sound production, especially in cases where gaps or bite issues previously affected pronunciation. Most patients adapt quickly, and any speech difficulties typically resolve within a few days or weeks. Practicing speech exercises, like reading aloud, can help speed up this adjustment period. If speech issues persist, talk to your dentist, who may offer tips or adjustments to help you adapt to the new appliance.
Orthodontic treatments can be performed on teeth with restorations such as crowns, bridges, or veneers, though these may require special considerations. For instance, if a patient has a crown on a tooth, braces can still be attached using different adhesives or techniques. However, fixed bridges connecting teeth can limit movement in those areas, as they don’t allow for individual tooth shifting. Your dentist will create a treatment plan that takes your restorations into account, ensuring they remain undamaged and functional. In some cases, adjustments or replacements may be needed after orthodontics to ensure restorations match your newly aligned teeth. It’s essential to discuss any restorations with your dentist to prevent complications during treatment.
Orthodontic treatment can increase the risk of cavities and gum disease if oral hygiene is not meticulously maintained. Braces and aligners create additional surfaces for plaque to accumulate, making it harder to clean effectively. Bacteria can become trapped around brackets, wires, or aligner edges, raising the chances of cavities and gum inflammation. Your dentist will recommend special tools, like floss threaders or interdental brushes, to help you clean thoroughly around your orthodontic appliances. Many dentists also suggest fluoride rinses to strengthen enamel during treatment. By keeping up with regular cleanings and maintaining a diligent hygiene routine, you can minimize these risks, preserving the health of your teeth and gums throughout your orthodontic journey.
Schedule an appointment at one of our convenient dental centres in the Greater Toronto areas of North York, Pickering, or Scarborough, today.
Dr. Amir Awadalla
Dr. Mark Awadalla
Dr. Ashraf Awadalla
