Everybody dreams of having that perfect celebrity smile- sparkly whites all perfectly aligned. But there is more to having straight teeth than what meets the eye. Having straight teeth can also benefit your overall oral health. Misaligned teeth can cause various issues, such as difficulty in cleaning teeth properly, tooth decay, gum disease, and even jaw pain.
Fortunately, with advancements in orthodontic treatment, there are several options available for teeth straightening. In this blog, we will explore the reasons for straightening teeth, the different methods available, and where to go for teeth straightening if you reside in Mississauga.
Content
- What is teeth straightening?
- Who needs teeth straightening?
- What’s the Difference Between an Orthodontist and a Dentist?
- Traditional Braces
- Ceramic Braces
- Lingual Braces
- Invisalign Braces
What is teeth straightening?
Teeth straightening is the process of correcting crooked or misaligned teeth to improve their appearance and function. It involves the gradual application of external force over time to shift teeth into their proper positions. The specific method of teeth straightening will depend on various factors such as age, the severity of dental issues, etc.
There are different methods available for teeth straightening, which we’ll elaborate on later in this article. But if you need someone for teeth straightening, an orthodontist is the person that will most likely come to your rescue.
What is the difference between a dentist and an orthodontist?
Dentists and orthodontists are both dental professionals who are trained to help patients maintain good oral health, but they have different specialties and areas of expertise.
Dentists
Dentists are healthcare professionals who provide services related to the general maintenance of oral health. This can include preventive care such as regular checkups, cleanings, and X-rays, as well as treatment for dental problems such as cavities, gum disease, and tooth infections. They can also provide cosmetic dental procedures such as teeth whitening and dental implants.
Orthodontists
Orthodontists are dental specialists who focus specifically on the alignment of teeth and jaws. They receive additional training beyond dental school in orthodontic treatment, which includes the use of braces, clear aligners, and other appliances to straighten teeth.
Who needs teeth straightening?
Teeth straightening isn’t a vanity procedure as some people would suggest. In fact, in certain cases, if left untreated, crooked teeth can lead to extreme discomfort, pain and not to mention the effects it could have on the individual’s confidence.
Crooked teeth can lead to dental problems such as overcrowding, difficulty cleaning teeth, and jaw misalignment, which can cause headaches, facial pain, and other issues. Straightening teeth can also improve self-confidence and overall dental health. Here are some of the most common reasons people seek teeth straightening methods:
Underbite
An underbite occurs when the lower front teeth extend too far forward in relation to the upper front teeth. This can also cause difficulty with chewing and can lead to jaw problems.
Overbite
An overbite occurs when the upper front teeth extend too far over the lower front teeth. This can cause problems with chewing and can also lead to excessive wear on the teeth.
Crossbite
A crossbite occurs when some of the upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth when the jaws are closed. This can cause uneven wear on the teeth and can also lead to jaw problems.
Open bite
An open bite occurs when the upper and lower teeth do not meet properly when the jaws are closed. This can cause speech problems and can also make it difficult to chew food.
Crowded teeth
When there’s insufficient space in the jaw for all of the teeth to fit properly, they can overlap, leading to a variety of dental problems.
Your orthodontist will first need to inspect your teeth and then recommend a specific method that would be most suitable to your unique case.
What methods are available for teeth straightening?
Teeth straightening is an essential process that offers several benefits, including improved appearance, better oral health, and improved confidence. There are several methods of teeth straightening, including traditional metal braces, clear braces, lingual braces, and clear aligners.
Traditional Braces
Metal braces are the most common method of teeth straightening. They consist of metal brackets that are attached to the teeth with a wire that runs through them. The wire is adjusted periodically to gradually move the teeth into the desired position. Metal braces can be uncomfortable and require regular dental visits to adjust the wires.
Clear Braces
Clear braces are similar to metal braces but are made of clear or tooth-colored materials, making them less noticeable. Clear braces may be more expensive than metal braces, but they are often preferred by adults who don’t want the appearance of metal braces.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces are similar to traditional metal braces but are attached to the back of the teeth, making them less visible. Lingual braces can be more uncomfortable than traditional metal braces because they can irritate the tongue.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners, sometimes just called by the brand name Invisalign, are a popular alternative to traditional braces. They are made of clear plastic and are custom-made to fit the patient’s teeth. Clear aligners are worn for a specified period, and each set of aligners gradually moves the teeth into the desired position. Clear aligners are removable, like a mouthguard, making it easy to clean the teeth and maintain good oral hygiene.
Where to straighten your teeth in Mississauga
Improvements in technology have been the catalyst for making teeth straightening procedures more efficient over the last century. Now, there is a new type of technology available in selective dentist practices that give them a competitive edge regarding the patient experience.
The iTero 5D Intraoral scanner is a cutting-edge technology that allows orthodontists to map out your mouth and jaw and help prepare for braces or Invisalign. Using an iTero scanner, we can determine the exact position of your teeth and gums, constructs a 3-D image of your mouth, and even predict the expected outcome of your braces or Invisalign treatment.
You will find an iTero 5D Intraoral scanner at Fowler dental, as well as an overwhelming amount of positive testimonials from satisfied clients. In fact, you will find positive reviews for everything ranging from implants to fillings, teeth whitening, and more.
When it comes to finding top-rated dental clinics for teeth straightening in Mississauga, you don’t need to look further than Fowler Dental.
If you need to know more about teeth straightening or any other dental services, including cosmetic dentistry, contact Fowler Dental, at 905-855-2996, or you can also visit our clinic in Mississauga, Monday through Saturday, from 9 am to 7 pm. You may schedule an appointment, but we also accept walk-ins at 1925 Fowler Drive, Mississauga.
