What does your smile say about you? For most people, an attractive smile is an important part of the overall impression a person makes. A beautiful smile radiates confidence and projects a positive image about you. A beautiful smile is also a powerful part of looking and feeling your best. Plymouth Orthodontics can make a real difference in your smile.
Why patients seek treatment
- Health — crooked teeth are harder to clean, which can make gum tissue more susceptible to disease and teeth more prone to decay.
- Function — teeth that are crowded, protruded, or misaligned do not usually function ideally, which can result in excessive tooth wear and sensitive teeth.
- Stability — teeth and jaws that are well aligned can be stabilized to reduce undesirable shifting.
- Esthetics — an attractive smile enhances self-esteem and self-confidence at school, at work and in the community.
Common malocclusions we treat
- Protrusion of upper front teeth — the upper teeth are too far forward or the lower teeth too far back.
- Overbite — the upper front teeth overlap too much of the lower front teeth.
- Crossbite — the upper teeth fit inside the lower teeth, often with unfavorable jaw growth and excessive tooth wear.
- Open bite — the upper and lower front teeth do not overlap, often with thumb sucking or tongue thrusting habits.
- Crowding — teeth do not have enough room to erupt; appropriate expansion can correct crowding, many times without tooth removal.
- Spacing — usually an esthetic concern, but sometimes a sign that teeth are missing.
- Dental midlines not matched — usually indicates that the back bite does not match properly.
What if malocclusions are not treated?
According to studies by the American Association of Orthodontists, untreated malocclusions may result in a variety of problems. Crowded teeth are more difficult to properly brush and floss, which contributes to tooth decay and gum disease. Protruding teeth are more susceptible to accidental chipping from trauma. Crossbites can result in unfavorable growth patterns and uneven tooth wear. Open bites can result in tongue-thrusting habits and speech problems.