Orthodontics

What is orthodontics?

Orthodontics is a dental specialty that focuses on the alignment of your teeth and jaw. At Orange Coast Dental Specialty, the team specializes in resolving issues with your bite, also known as malocclusions, in addition to the straightening of your teeth.

Orthodontists provide treatments for a host of issues, including:

• Crooked teeth
• Crowded teeth
• Wide gaps in teeth
• Excessive wear on your teeth
• Underbite
• Overbite
• Crossbite

Recommended treatments range from traditional braces to revolutionary clear aligners. The experts at Orange Coast Dental Specialty have advanced training, allowing them to offer a wide range of dental services to restore your smile and make sure you have good oral health.

Why should I see an orthodontist?

When your bite is misaligned, or your teeth are crooked, small crevices in between your teeth leave room for harmful bacteria to settle in your mouth, leading to several health issues. These issues include:

• Cavities
• Tooth loss
• Tooth decay
• Jaw pain
• Gum disease

If left untreated, oral health issues may continue to worsen. Orthodontics safely correct jaw alignment issues and straighten your teeth, giving you a beautiful smile and a healthy mouth.

What happens at an orthodontic consultation?

When you meet with the team at Orange Coast Dental Specialty, you can expect a series of examinations to precisely determine the cause of any symptoms. A comprehensive consultation may include:

• Full dental exam
• X-rays of your teeth and jaw
• Plaster molds taken of your teeth
• Review of dental and medical history

With a thorough exam, your orthodontist sees and understands alignment issues with your teeth and jaw.

Once determined, your orthodontist talks about treatment options and customizes a plan to get you the best results.

What treatments do orthodontics offer?

The professionals at Orange Coast Dental Specialty offer several orthodontic treatment options to improve the appearance of your teeth and to protect your teeth from decay. Treatment options include: 

• Traditional metal braces
• Ceramic braces
• Clear aligners
• Retainers
• Headgear
• Plates
• Palatal expander
• Jaw repositioning appliances

Your orthodontist explains all of your options in detail to help determine which one is best for you.

To find out what type of orthodontic treatment might be right for you, reach out to the oral health experts at Orange Coast Dental Specialty for a consultation by calling the office or booking your appointment online today.