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.
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General Dentist Tooth Straightening in Oxford, MS
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 Lee Family and Cosmetic Dentistry at 662-546-1143 for an appointment in our Oxford office.
Though we go to our general dentist all the time, one thing that not everyone considers is the fact that the dentist is the one that handles most of our oral health issues. How is it that one dentist is responsible for treating and diagnosing so many of our problems without the help of specialists…
Besides ourselves, one other person plays a highly important role in maintaining our oral health, our general dentist. You see, the dentist is responsible for much of the work that goes into our mouths, and without them, most of us would be at a loss as to what to do to protect our teeth, tongue,…
Curious about what you should be asking your general dentist when you visit? Read on to learn more. Visiting a general dentist for regular check-ups is essential for maintaining good oral health. By learning more about their oral health, patients can prevent potential problems and be more aware of changes that may require attention.Going to…
Though we go to our general dentist all the time, one thing that not everyone considers is the fact that the dentist is the one that handles most of our oral health issues. How is it that one dentist is responsible for treating and diagnosing so many of our problems without the help of specialists…
Besides ourselves, one other person plays a highly important role in maintaining our oral health, our general dentist. You see, the dentist is responsible for much of the work that goes into our mouths, and without them, most of us would be at a loss as to what to do to protect our teeth, tongue,…