Orthodontics in Baltimore, MD
Orthodontist near me is a specialty within the field of dentistry that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and even prevention of misaligned teeth and jaws. The most common form of Baltimore orthodontics that people have heard of is braces, which are used to straighten the teeth when they are crooked, crowded, or improperly fitted in the mouth. However, there are other forms of treatment that our dentist in Baltimore can use to help patients improve their smile and overall oral comfort. If you are seeking orthodontics in Baltimore, be sure to consider your options carefully and find the right treatment for you.
Who Needs Orthodontic Treatment?
A surprising percentage of the population of the United States needs at least some form of orthodontic treatment, with the American Dental Association (ADA) estimating that 30 percent of people have problems severe enough to need it. Unfortunately, many individuals fear they cannot afford treatment or are terrified of what it could entail.
Orthodontic treatment varies based on a person’s jaw and tooth alignment. Some people might need standard braces, while others might have problems that require palate expansion or even jaw surgery.
On average, the patients who reside in Canton, Patterson Park, Greektown, Highland Town, and Brewers Hill that need orthodontic treatment are those with problematic jaw alignment, severe overbite or underbite, or crooked teeth that affect how a person bites and chews. Individuals can seek Canton orthodontics treatment offered by our dentist in Canton to correct minor cosmetic problems, though, including slight overbites or crooked incisors.
The Types of Treatment
Most orthodontic treatment requires the use of appliances. Appliances are temporary installments in the mouth that shape jaw or tooth alignment. The most common types are:
- Braces
- Headgear
- Palatal Expansion
- Jaw Surgery
Appliances can be made from metal, as with the case with braces, but most are developed using synthetic materials that will be more comfortable for the patient.
Aftercare
Orthodontic treatment does not end when the braces, headgear, or palatal expander are removed. To stop the teeth and jaws from moving back to their original positions, patients need to be responsible and obey the instructions given by the dentist near me for aftercare. This means wearing a retainer or similar device when sleeping to stop the natural shift of the mouth back to its original position. People who fail to do so will need to undergo treatment all over again.