In recent years, more patients have been asking general dentist professionals about straighter teeth. Orthodontic treatment has come a long way in the last decades. Patients may think that traditional braces are the only option, but clear aligners and appliance therapy are also available now. When having this conversation, it is important that patients discuss treatment goals and expected outcomes with the doctor. It can be helpful for people to view other patients' results so that they can be informed of all treatment options.
The numerous benefits of a straighter smile include feeling more confident, increasing efficacy of hygiene routines, and promoting good jaw health.
In Western culture, most people consider straight teeth an attractive trait. Those with misaligned teeth may feel self-conscious and even refuse to smile. This can especially be a problem in the adolescent years. Orthodontic treatment by a general dentist can help restore confidence in a person who perceives their smile to be unattractive. These treatments do not only change the teeth; movement of the jaws can change facial structure and influence overall appearance. In some cases, the dentist may be able to show projections of what the final result will look like.
When teeth are crowded and misaligned, patients can have difficulty with effective brushing and flossing. Plaque can collect in the places the teeth overlap and make oral hygiene more difficult. When the teeth are correctly positioned, brushing immediately becomes easier, and usually more plaque is removed. It is important to note, though, that oral hygiene can suffer during orthodontic therapy if the patient is not diligent. Brackets and wires used with traditional braces can create a plaque trap, so patients must commit to pristine oral hygiene during treatment.
The temporomandibular joint, also known as the TMJ, can become strained over time when the patient's jaws are not properly aligned. This is especially an issue when the patient has a severe overbite or underbite. A general dentist can use appliance therapy and orthodontic treatment to correct abnormal jaw alignment. This helps reduce the risk of conditions like arthritis in the TMJ. Patients may also report less clicking or popping of the jaw joints. Patients may be instructed to wear a night guard or retainer to keep the teeth in proper alignment.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp:
General Dentist Tooth Straightening in Pearl City, HI
Dentistry continues to evolve and improve to bring patients optimal care. Orthodontic treatments can benefit a patient in many ways and increase the quality of oral health. Gone are the days when braces meant only metal brackets and wires in the mouth. There are many options available for patients now, and anyone with misaligned teeth can take advantage of the treatments available. With some careful research and consideration, a patient choosing orthodontic treatment for a straighter smile can look forward to the benefits of properly aligned teeth for years to come.
Request an appointment or call Diamond Head Dental Care at 808-214-9287 for an appointment in our Pearl City office.
Our general dentist can help reduce the effects of teeth grinding, also known as bruxism. Most people who grind their teeth tend to be unaware of their habit because it mainly occurs during sleep. Grinding your teeth occasionally due to being anxious or stressed out typically does not cause noticeable damage to teeth, but doing…
Visiting a general dentist for routine cleanings is essential for preventing common dental problems such as tooth decay or gum disease. While brushing and flossing every day can help remove a majority of bacteria and plaque from the teeth, it is impossible to completely remove all buildup. Frequently scheduling dental cleanings makes it possible to…
Patients may be alarmed if a general dentist mentions that a tooth extraction may be needed during a routine appointment. A dentist’s primary goal is to preserve the teeth, but there some cases where a tooth cannot be saved using normal procedures. Understanding what situations can result in tooth removal and knowing the options available…
If you are looking to straighten your teeth but do not want traditional metallic braces, Invisalign® is an effective alternative to consider. Invisalign is a set of clear aligners that are worn over the teeth. Due to their transparency, they are hard to notice when worn, making them a popular option among those seeking affordable…
The decision to get dental implants is a big one, and one that can drastically change your life for the better. Dental implants offer substantial benefits over other tooth replacement options and can help prevent many of the adverse side effects of tooth loss. Because implants look and act like natural teeth and have the…