A lot of cosmetic problems can be resolved by heading to the dentist. However, there are some procedures that a general dentist just can’t perform. If a patient’s teeth are too crooked to fix using techniques like porcelain veneers and inlays, he or she will have to see an orthodontist in Nassau County NY. Straightening crooked teeth with braces or Invisalign is the most common reason that patients seek a referral. Many orthodontic patients are children. However, malocclusion, or crooked teeth, can be just as easily treated in adults.
Other common reasons for seeing an orthodontist include teeth that are too crowded in the jaw, under-bites, overbites, and cross-bites. These issues all impact how a patient’s teeth fit together when they chew. A poor bite can lead to jaw disorders, and overlapping or crooked teeth often contribute to gum disease and tooth decay, so this reasoning is not purely aesthetic. Having a bad bite can also cause patients to grind their teeth or clench their jaw, particularly at night, causing undo wear. Some patients also find that bite misalignment poses challenges when it comes to producing normal speech.
Dental professionals recommend that children see an orthodontist in Nassau County NY at least once by the age of seven, even if their teeth appear to be growing in normally. Most orthodontic treatments take years to complete, and they are more easily performed when patients are young and their jaw structure is more malleable. Initial consultations are generally either low-cost or even free, and involve full dental X-rays and a review of the patient’s dental and medical history. The orthodontist will also measure how wide the patient is able to open his or her mouth and measure any crowding or protrusion. The orthodontist will also take note of muscle tenderness or jaw clicking. These symptoms often indicate that a patient is grinding his or her teeth.
Costs for treatment vary, but most patients report deep satisfaction with their new teeth. After completing treatment at an orthodontist’s office patients are better able to chew, speak, and show off their brilliant smiles.