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Benefits of Alignment

For people who have problems with overcrowded teeth , overbites or underbites, the benefits of alignment are unquestionable. Very often, dental problems are associated with alignment problems. These problems can be addressed by orthodontic treatment with braces, resulting in a beautiful smile and improved self esteem.

Causes of Alignment Problems

Alignment problems can be mild to severe and are often the result of either not enough space in the mouth for adult teeth (overcrowding) or improper alignment between the upper and lower jaw ( overbites and underbites ).

For people with small mouths, overcrowding of teeth is the most common problem. As adult teeth begin to emerge in a child‚’s mouth, there is less and less space for the new teeth and teeth are therefore pushed out of alignment and place. Unfortunately, teeth get pushed into odd places or turn sideways. Some of the common problems associated with overcrowded teeth include difficulty chewing, high amounts of tooth decay and cavities, problems chewing food and in severe cases, difficulty with speech and social interactions.

Problems resulting from misalignment of upper and lower jaws can be more difficult to treat. Over- and underbites can result in problems with speech and problems eating. It is also common for children with bite problems to have problems with social interactions with peers.

Correcting Alignment Problems

Happily, alignment problems are correctable with the help of an orthodontist and braces. Treatment may involve removing problem teeth. Additionally, patients may be required to wear headgear, along with the bands or brackets required for braces. The length of time braces are needed can vary from months to years, depending on the extent of correction needed.

Braces are usually covered by dental insurance , but parents or patients should check with their dental insurance provider to verify coverage before committing to the expense of orthodontic treatment .

There are several different types of braces available, including traditional, full metal band braces, brackets, lingual braces and invisible braces. Metal band braces are the least expensive type of braces. Brackets offer the benefit of only being attached to the front of the teeth and children enjoy the ability to change the colors of the ligatures. Lingual braces are placed on the back of the teeth, making them invisible to others. The most common invisible braces are the Invisalign system, which is a series of clear plastic trays that are changed every few weeks to slowly move the teeth into the desired position.

Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment

There are multiple benefits to seeking orthodontic treatment for dental alignment problems . For many people, correcting alignment problems are a cosmetic procedure that improves their smile and their self esteem, helping them present their best selves to the world. However, for others, correcting their dental alignment problems can result in significant improvements to health. In addition to correction of orthodontic problems, many adults also seek other cosmetic procedures such as teeth whitening or veneers to improve their smile.

Summary

For many individuals, correcting dental alignment problems are a purely cosmetic procedure that improves their smile and self esteem. However, for others, overcrowded teeth and over- and underbites interfere significantly with their ability to eat correctly, talk correctly and interact with others. Additionally, people with alignment problems have high rates of tooth decay and other dental problems, which can be alleviated through orthodontic treatment.