Orthodontic care refers to the treatment of misaligned teeth and jaws using various orthodontic appliances, including braces and aligners. While many people seek orthodontic treatment for cosmetic reasons, there are also functional benefits to having straight teeth, such as improved bite function and easier maintenance of good oral hygiene.
Considerations When Choosing Advanced Orthodontic Treatment
If you’re considering orthodontic care, you may be wondering if you need advanced orthodontic care. The answer depends on a few factors, including the severity of your orthodontic issues, your age, and your personal goals for treatment.
Firstly, the severity of your orthodontic issues is an essential factor to consider when deciding if you need advanced orthodontic care. If you have only mild crowding or spacing issues, you may not require advanced treatment, and traditional braces or clear aligners may be sufficient. However, if you have more severe orthodontic problems, such as overbite, underbite, crossbite, or a significant malocclusion, you may require advanced orthodontic care, such as surgical orthodontics or orthognathic surgery.
Secondly, age is also a significant factor in determining if you need advanced orthodontic care. Children and teenagers have more malleable jaws, making it easier to correct misaligned teeth and jaws. In contrast, adults may require more advanced treatment options, such as surgery, due to the lack of jaw growth potential. That being said, advances in orthodontic technology have made it possible for adults to receive treatment with clear aligners, lingual braces, or other more discreet options.
Finally, your personal goals for treatment are also important to consider when deciding if you need advanced orthodontic care. If your only goal is to improve the appearance of your smile, you may not require advanced treatment. However, if you have functional issues, such as difficulty biting or speaking, you may require more advanced orthodontic care to achieve the desired results.
Advanced Orthodontic Care Options
Surgical Orthodontics: This type of treatment combines orthodontic care with corrective jaw surgery to correct misaligned jaws and teeth. Surgical orthodontics is often recommended for patients with severe orthodontic issues, such as overbite, underbite, or crossbite, that cannot be corrected with braces or aligners alone.
Lingual Braces: Lingual braces are similar to traditional braces, but they are placed on the inside of the teeth instead of the outside, making them virtually invisible. This option is often chosen by adults who want to correct their orthodontic issues discreetly.
Invisalign: Invisalign is a type of clear aligner system that uses a series of custom-made, clear plastic aligners to gradually shift teeth into their proper position. This treatment option is often chosen by adults who want to avoid the visibility of traditional braces.
Conclusion
Whether or not you need advanced orthodontic care depends on several factors, including the severity of your orthodontic issues, your age, and your personal goals for treatment. If you have mild orthodontic issues, traditional braces or clear aligners may be sufficient. However, if you have more severe issues, such as misaligned jaws or significant malocclusion, you may require advanced orthodontic care, such as surgical orthodontics or orthognathic surgery. Ultimately, the best way to determine which treatment option is right for you is to consult with an experienced orthodontist who can assess.