Orthodontics Treatments at Martinez DDS

What is orthodontics?

An orthodontist specializes in straightening misaligned teeth and bites. When teeth are crooked, they don’t fit together properly. Misalignments can impact the way you bite and chew, but they can also make it harder to keep your teeth clean.

Orthodontic dentistry moves your teeth into proper alignment. Orthodontics can include traditional metal braces, Invisalign, and custom retainers. 

Once your teeth are straight, Dr. Martinez may recommend retainers to ensure your teeth don’t become misaligned over time. Permanent retainers can be fixed to the backs of teeth, or removable retainers can be worn at night.

What imperfections can orthodontics fix?

The goal of orthodontics is to improve both the function and the appearance of your teeth. Orthodontics are commonly used to correct issues like:

• Crowded teeth
• Gapped teeth
• Crooked teeth
• Overbite
• Underbite
• Crossbite
• Open bite

Traditional braces move your teeth in two stages. Brackets are attached to the crowns of your teeth, and the crowns move into position, followed by their roots. However, with Invisalign, you can get straighter teeth without wearing metal braces.

What type of orthodontic treatment is right for me?

Everyone’s mouth is different, and Dr. Martinez offers customized orthodontic solutions for children, teens, and adults. She evaluates your teeth, taking digital X-rays and digital impressions to assess your needs. 

Traditional braces are an extremely effective treatment for serious malocclusions. If you have significantly misaligned teeth, braces can transform your smile in one to two years.

Invisalign is a convenient way to get a straighter smile. The system uses a series of clear aligners that you change every few weeks. Over a period of 12 to 18 months, your teeth are gently moved into place. 

Whatever type of orthodontic treatment is best for your mouth, Dr. Martinez guides you through your smile transformation. At each orthodontic appointment, she checks your progress and fine-tunes your treatment plan to help you achieve a perfect smile.

You don’t have to live with bothersome crooked teeth. Let Dr. Martinez help you find the right orthodontic treatment to give you the smile you’ve always wanted. Request a consultation online or over the phone to get started today.

Further Orthodontic Considerations

Malocclusion, or misaligned teeth and jaws, can have significant impacts on oral health, including difficulty chewing, speaking, and even breathing. In severe cases, it can lead to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, which can cause pain and discomfort in the jaw joint and surrounding muscles. One effective solution to this problem is the use of braces.

Braces work by applying gentle, constant pressure to teeth and jaws, gradually shifting them into proper alignment. This not only improves bite and jaw function but can also have a positive impact on airway health. Studies have shown that correcting jaw alignment with braces can increase airway size, reducing the risk of breathing difficulties, snoring, and sleep apnea.

Braces have come a long way in recent years, with many options available to meet the needs and preferences of patients. Traditional metal braces are still commonly used, but there are also clear braces and Invisalign, which are virtually invisible and can be more comfortable to wear than metal braces.

While the decision to get braces is ultimately up to the patient, the benefits far outweigh any temporary discomfort or inconvenience. Patients who undergo orthodontic treatment report improved oral function and a significant improvement in their quality of life. Additionally, the long-term benefits of braces, including improved airway health, can have a positive impact on overall health and wellbeing.

It's important to note that while braces can provide significant benefits, they do require a commitment from the patient. Treatment times can vary, but on average, most patients wear braces for 12-24 months. Regular dental check-ups and adjustments are necessary to ensure that treatment is progressing as planned.

Braces are a highly effective solution for correcting malocclusion and improving jaw function and airway health. With advances in technology, there are many options available to meet the needs and preferences of patients. While treatment does require a commitment, the long-term benefits make it a worthwhile investment in oral and overall health. As always, it is important to consult with your dentist or orthodontist to determine the best course of treatment for your individual needs.