Orthodontic treatment is a major step in improving the overall aesthetic of your smile. Achieving a straight, beautiful set of teeth takes time and patience, but can be worth it for those who take the leap. However, there are certain common issues that you may come across during orthodontic treatment that can be annoying and inconvenient. In this article, we’ll discuss three of the most common orthodontic treatment issues and how you can address them.

Misaligned Teeth

Misaligned teeth are one of the main reasons people seek out orthodontic treatment in the first place. They occur when there is an imbalance between your jaw structure and the size of your teeth, causing them to be crowded or protruding. This can lead to a misaligned bite which can make it hard for you to chew and speak properly. Here are three possible solutions.

Braces

Braces are a common solution for misaligned teeth. They work by placing pressure on your teeth to gradually move them into their correct position. This can take anywhere from 6 months to two years, depending on the severity of your misalignment.

Invisalign

Invisalign is an alternative to braces that uses clear plastic aligners instead of brackets and wires. It works in the same way as braces, but is less intrusive and can take around 12 to 18 months.

Jaw Surgery

In extreme cases where braces or Invisalign aren’t effective, jaw surgery may be necessary. During this procedure, an orthodontist will make cuts in your jawbone so that it can be shifted into a better position. This can help to realign your teeth and give you a more aesthetically pleasing smile.

Speech Issues

Another common issue when it comes to orthodontic treatment is speech problems. If your teeth are too far apart or too close together, it can cause difficulty in producing certain sounds. Here are some ways to address these issues:

Speech Therapy

A speech therapist can help you learn how to produce certain sounds correctly and improve your overall speaking ability. This can be especially helpful for those who are having difficulty speaking due to their orthodontic treatment.

Removing Orthodontic Appliances

If the issue is caused by orthodontic appliances such as braces or retainers, it may be necessary to remove them in order to improve your speech. Your orthodontist can help you determine if this is the best option for you.

Orthognathic Surgery 

In extreme cases where speech therapy and removing orthodontic appliances isn’t effective, orthognathic surgery may be necessary. This is a major procedure that involves reshaping your jaw bone in order to improve your bite alignment and speech.

Tooth Decay

Orthodontic treatment can also lead to tooth decay if not properly taken care of. This is because food particles and bacteria can get stuck on the braces or other orthodontic appliances, leading to plaque buildup and cavities. Here are some tips for preventing this from happening:

Brushing & Flossing

Brushing and flossing your teeth regularly is essential for maintaining good oral hygiene while undergoing orthodontic treatment. Make sure to brush and floss at least twice a day and after every meal.

Using a Water Flosser

A water flosser can be especially helpful in getting rid of any food particles or bacteria that may have gotten stuck in your braces. It can also help keep your gums healthy and prevent the buildup of plaque.

Visiting Your Orthodontist Regularly

Visiting your orthodontist regularly is also important to ensure that your treatment is progressing properly and that there are no issues with tooth decay or other oral health problems.

Orthodontic treatment can have its benefits, but it also comes with a few issues that you should be aware of. By being prepared for these common problems and taking the necessary steps to prevent or address them, you can ensure that your orthodontic treatment will go smoothly and lead to positive results.

FAQs

Q: How long does orthodontic treatment take?

A: Orthodontic treatment can take anywhere from 6 months to two years, depending on the severity of misalignment and the type of treatment used.

Q: What is Invisalign?

A: Invisalign is an alternative to braces that uses clear plastic aligners instead of brackets and wires. It works in the same way as braces, but is less intrusive and can take around 12 to 18 months.

Q: How do I prevent tooth decay during orthodontic treatment?

A: Brushing and flossing your teeth regularly is essential for maintaining good oral hygiene while undergoing orthodontic treatment. You should also consider using a water flosser and visiting your orthodontist regularly to ensure that your treatment is progressing properly.

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