ORTHODONTICS

Why Is Orthodontics Important?

Most people think about the aesthetic appeal of teeth and smiles when they are considering orthodontics for themselves or their children. That is important. Orthodontics, which results in straightening teeth and correcting a bite issue, can build confidence and improve how someone feels socially. That can affect them in other ways, such as reaching out to new friends or trying new things. 

Yet, the true purpose of orthodontics is to improve mouth function. Teeth should sit properly against the tongue and each other. Correcting biting and misaligned teeth will improve functions like chewing and talking. That leads to better nutrition and can reduce speech impediments. Correcting those issues has positive impacts that last a lifetime. 

Types of Orthodontics Available

At Setai Dental, we believe in giving our patients choices. When it comes to orthodontics, we have many choices. These include traditional metal braces, clear braces, lingual braces, and Invisalign.

Traditional metal braces are the most common choice for pre-adolescents and teens. They are effective and affordable. Children with them see their peers with them so they don’t feel odd about getting them. They require regular orthodontic visits to adjust them.

Clear and lingual braces are a more subtle version. They perform the same function as traditional braces but are less visible. Clear braces involve clear brackets and lighter wires so they are less noticeable than traditional metal braces. Lingual braces are installed behind the teeth so they aren’t seen at all.  Clear and lingual braces function just as traditional metal braces. The one disadvantage of lingual braces is they can cause discomfort on the tongue and produce some speech impediments while wearing them.

Invisalign is incredibly popular among older teens and adults because no one can tell you are getting orthodontic treatments. This allows posing for senior pictures, proms, and work photos with big smiles and confidence. The one disadvantage of this innovative product is the patient must wear them 22 hours a day, taking the clear aligners out only to eat and brush their teeth. It takes discipline for them to work effectively but they do produce great results.

Time for Your Child's First Orthodontic Visit

Your child should go to his or her first orthodontic visit when they are around 7 years old after they start getting several permanent teeth. This may sound young to parents, but the reason is clear. Seeing an orthodontist as permanent teeth erupting will help you get a head start on any problems.  The first visit will be only an exam and perhaps X-rays. The orthodontist will tell you what you can expect over the next few years so you can prepare financially. It also gives you a chance to look at treatment options. The orthodontist will likely want to monitor your child's dental development to see if it changes over the next couple of years.  Dentists advise the perfect time for orthodontic treatments is when your child is between 9 and 11 years old. All their permanent teeth have come in by then but are still flexible enough to shift with treatments easily. The added advantage for your child is they complete their orthodontic treatments by the time they hit the highly social teen years.

Can an Adult Get Orthodontics?

More adults are getting orthodontic treatments than ever! At Setai Dental, we welcome adult patients to our orthodontist. 
Reasons for adult orthodontic treatments vary. They include wanting to look your best for your career and possible promotion, getting back into the dating scene, or improving your overall health by having a fully functional mouth with the correct bite. Whatever your reason, Setai Dental has an orthodontic solution for you. 

The Cost of Orthodontics

Orthodontics can cost from $2,000 to $6,000 or higher. The final cost depends on the individual and their needs. Some treatments last only six months while others last two years and that can affect cost. An orthodontist may require other issues to be corrected prior to treatments and that can raise cost. 

The only way to know the cost of your or your child's orthodontic treatment is to talk to your orthodontist. Setail Dental provides a treatment plan with cost evaluation for all our patients. We work with you to help you budget orthodontic treatments and connect you with any qualifying programs. 

A Lasting Effect

Not everyone requires gum surgery. In the early stages of periodontitis, treatment may involve deep cleanings and additional maintenance. Early detection of gum disease is important for managing its progression. Contact us to schedule an appointment and discuss the treatment options best suited to your needs, including whether advanced treatments like gum surgery might be necessary.