Ask Our Sherman Oaks Orthodontist about (invisalign) Clear and Metal Braces for Crooked Teeth
Green Dental offers orthodontics in Sherman Oaks by an experienced team of dentists & orthodontics that includes Board Certified Orthodontist and Dr. Basil, who is known as a preferred provider of Invisalign® clear braces.
We are always looking for ways to give you a beautiful smile; whether it’s by straightening your teeth with traditional metal braces or with more modern transparent options.
We provide effective yet affordable services for braces, Invisalign®, retainers, orthognathic surgery, and dental extractions in Sherman Oaks.
If you are unsure which orthodontic treatment is good for you, let our team of dentists & orthodontists in Sherman Oaks work with you to understand your unique needs and then find a solution that will bring your desired results. We offer clear braces, self-litigating brackets, and Invisalign to suit any patient’s needs.
If you are looking for adult cosmetic braces or orthodontic treatment for your child, contact Green Dental & Orthodontics Sherman Oaks today for your consultation!
What is Orthodontics?
Orthodontics is one of many dental specialties. The word “orthodontics” is derived from the Greek words orthos, meaning proper or straight and odons meaning teeth. Orthodontics is specifically concerned with diagnosing and treating tooth misalignment and irregularity in the jaw area. Initially, orthodontic treatments were geared toward the treatment of teens and pre-teens, but these days around 30 percent of orthodontic patients are adults.
There are many advantages to well-aligned teeth, including easier cleaning, better oral hygiene, clearer speech and a more pleasant smile. Though orthodontic treatment can be effective at any age, the American Dental Association suggests that an orthodontic assessment should be performed around the age of seven. The earlier orthodontic treatment begins, the more quickly the problem can be successfully resolved.
There are several types of irregularities, including:
- Overbite – The upper teeth protrude further than or completely cover the lower teeth.
- Underbite – The lower teeth protrude further than the upper teeth causing the chin to look prominent.
- Crossbite – Some of the upper teeth may close inside the lower teeth rather than on the outside.
- Overcrowding – Insufficient room on the arch causes some adult teeth to erupt incorrectly and become rotated.
What problems can be treated with orthodontics?
Orthodontics is a versatile branch of dentistry that can be used alone, or in combination with maxillofacial or cosmetic dentistry.
Here are some of the common conditions treated with orthodontics:
- Anteroposterior deviations – The discrepancy between a pair of closed jaws is known as an anteroposterior discrepancy or deviation. An example of such a discrepancy would be an overbite (where the upper teeth are further forward than the lower teeth), or an underbite (where the lower teeth are further forward then the upper teeth).
- Overcrowding – Overcrowding is a common orthodontic problem. It occurs when there is an insufficient space for the normal growth and development of adult teeth.
- Aesthetic problems – A beautiful straight smile may be marred by a single misaligned tooth. This tooth can be realigned with ease and accuracy by the orthodontist. Alternatively, orthodontists can also work to reshape and restructure the lips, jaw or the face.
Orthodontic Solutions
Orthodontics is a technologically advanced field which offers many sophisticated solutions to malocclusions and other cosmetic problems.The orthodontist will generally perform a visual examination, panoramic X-rays, and study models (bite impressions) in order to assess the exact nature of the discrepancy.
When a diagnosis has been made, there are a variety of orthodontic treatment options available.
Here is an overview of some of the most common treatments:
- Fixed orthodontic braces – A metal or ceramic dental base is affixed to each tooth, and a dental wire is inserted through each base. The orthodontist is able to gradually train the teeth into proper alignment by regularly adjusting the wire. When the desired results are achieved, the fixed dental braces are completely removed.
- Removable appliances – There are a wide range of removable appliances commonly used in orthodontics, including headgear that correct overbites, Hawley retainers that improve the position of the teeth even as the jawbone reforms, and facemasks which are used to correct an underbite.
- Invisalign® – This is a newer, removable type of dental aligner that is completely transparent. Invisalign® does not interfere with eating because of its removable nature, and mechanically works in the same way as the traditional metal dental braces. Not all patients are candidates for Invisalign®.
If you have any questions or concerns about orthodontics, please contact us.
FAQs About Orthodontist
An orthodontist is a dental specialist who is skilled in the prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. The services of an orthodontist include braces, retainers, etc.
An orthodontist is a dental specialist who has completed additional training in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities.
Braces are metallic, plastic, or ceramic devices that are used to support or straighten teeth.
There are commonly three types of braces. Metal braces, Plastic braces & Ceramic braces. Metal braces are the most common type as they are strong and more durable than ceramic and plastic braces.
If I get braces, how long do I have to wear them?
The duration to wear braces depend on several important factors such as your age, severity of your dental issue, etc. On average, you should wear braces for at least 1 year but this duration may vary and only your orthodontist can decide. So, consult your orthodontist to know about the duration for which you may have to wear braces.
What is the best age for children to go to an orthodontist?
The typical age for children to wear braces is around 7 years. This is because, at the age of 7, children’s permanent teeth start to come in. And at this age, dentists can identify any potential orthodontic issue your child may have.
While treatment may not be necessary immediately, early evaluations allow orthodontists to monitor dental development, identify potential problems, and plan for future treatment if needed. Starting orthodontic treatment typically occurs between the ages of 9 and 14 when a child has a mix of primary and permanent teeth.
If I have braces, do I still need dental checkups every six months?
Yes, it’s crucial to visit your dentist when you wear braces because of 2 major reasons. First, your dentist can make sure that your braces are clean and are not causing any infection. Secondly, your dentist may need to adjust your braces according to your wearing & maintenance style.