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Whether you are a teenager or an adult, you may desire straighter teeth, but what are your options? Orthodontic treatments are available to bring your teeth, lips and jaws into proper alignment, achieving facial balance. People typically associate orthodontics with braces to correct crooked teeth in children. However, orthodontics can be used to treat a wide variety of conditions in people of all ages - from overbites to underbites - not just crooked teeth. Orthodontic problems are called malocclusion, or "bad bite." Some causes of malocclusions are inherited, while some can be acquired. Acquired malocclusions can be caused by accidents, early or late loss of baby teeth, or oral habits that are continued over a long period of time. Patients of almost any age, especially children, can benefit from treatment for orthodontic problems. Invisalign: Clear Orthodontics It is often hard to tell if someone is wearing an Invisalign aligner, which makes the straightening process more discreet and less life altering. Invisalign was introduced in 1999 by Align Technologies and incorporates a series of clear, plastic aligners that fit comfortably over your teeth. Like traditional braces and orthodontic appliances, the aligners are designed to move your teeth gradually into the desired position. The Invisalign process requires one set of impressions and photographs of your teeth, which are taken during the initial consultation. Once the impressions are made, they are used to create a three-dimensional computer projection of how your teeth could be moved in increments. This process forms the basis for developing a series of custom-made aligners that are designed to accomplish the movement of your teeth to their final position. Each aligner must be worn in its specific order for about two weeks, in which it moves the teeth in small increments. With Invisalign, you have the ability to remove your aligners for eating, drinking certain beverages, brushing and flossing, but they must be worn at least 20 hours a day in order to reposition the teeth successfully. Dental Braces Dental braces are a type of orthodontic treatment used to correct teeth that are crowded, crooked, protruding, out of alignment or have irregular spacing. By moving your teeth into their ideal position, dental braces help to create a more attractive and healthier smile for children and adults. When teeth are crooked or crowded, it is often difficult to keep them clean. If brushing and flossing cannot be properly completed, tooth decay, gum disease and even tooth loss can occur. An improper bite can also significantly interfere with your ability to chew and speak properly, as well as cause abnormal wear to the enamel of your teeth. If your teeth protrude and/or your upper and lower teeth do not come together properly, jaw problems may arise as well. By using braces to keep your teeth in proper alignment and allowing better oral hygiene, dental braces do more than just keep your smile looking good, they help keep your mouth healthy and functioning. Contact your Pembroke Pines orthodontist today for more information on orthodontics and how they can help re-align your teeth to give you your desired smile. More and more adults are also wearing braces and undergoing orthodontic treatments to correct minor problems and to improve their smiles - not just children. Your dentist will be able to advise you on the best course of treatment for improving your smile.
Sean Hartmen writes for Dr. Osmani Diaz, leading dentist in Pembroke Pines, FL. Offering dental care and orthodontia for patients of every age, this orthodontist in Pembroke Pines is qualified to handle any oral health need, including Invisalign, cosmetic dentistry, laser dentistry and dental implants.
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