Braces in Lorton VA
The decision to pursue orthodontic treatment, particularly braces, is a significant one. It’s often driven by a desire to improve not only aesthetics but also oral health.
Misaligned teeth can contribute to a range of problems, including difficulty cleaning, increased risk of cavities and gum disease, and even jaw pain. Braces address these issues by gradually repositioning teeth into their optimal alignment, promoting better oral hygiene and overall well-being.
What are Braces?
Braces are an appliance used by dentists to correct misaligned teeth and improve a patient’s bite.
While often viewed as a cosmetic procedure, braces go beyond mere aesthetics. They play a crucial role in oral health. A misaligned bite can lead to difficulties chewing, jaw pain, increased tooth wear, and even problems with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Braces help address these issues by gradually shifting teeth into their optimal positions.
Path to straight teeth in Lorton VA?
It starts with a visit to the dentist or, even better, to the orthodontist. Why is this so important?
- Assessment of the situation is the first and key step.
Your teeth are part of a complex system, and in order to align them, you need to understand how this system works now. A simple visual inspection is often not enough. - Examination is just the beginning.
The doctor will carefully look at the position of the teeth, the bite (how the upper and lower rows of teeth close together), assess the condition of the gums and mucous membrane. He may ask questions about your habits (for example, bruxism – grinding your teeth in your sleep), about injuries, as well as your general health, since some diseases can affect the condition of the teeth and bones. - X-ray – a look inside.
X-rays allow you to see what is hidden from view: shows the location of all teeth, including unerupted ones, the condition of the bone tissue, the presence of cysts or other pathologies, gives a general idea of the situation. In some complex cases, CT may be required. It gives a three-dimensional image of the jaws and teeth, which allows you to see the situation in great detail. - Based on all the examinations, the doctor creates an individual treatment plan.
What Types of Braces in Lorton VA?
Modern braces come in various forms
- traditional metal braces
- ceramic braces
- clear aligners
Regardless of the type, the underlying principle remains the same: applying gentle, consistent pressure to the teeth to guide them into proper alignment.
Do you want to fix your teeth?
Book an Appointment Today
The specialists of the Lorton Dentist will conduct a detailed consultation and offer the best solution for installing braces taking into account your individual characteristics.
Our braces will restore the beauty and functionality of your smile.
You can contact the practice online or call the number provided to schedule an appointment.
How long does it take to install braces?
The procedure for installing orthodontic construction usually takes from an hour to two hours, and is most often performed in one visit to the dentist. After installing braces, patients may experience minor discomfort, which is considered normal and gradually passes.
However, if you experience intense pain that does not respond to painkillers, it is recommended to contact our clinic. Significant discomfort from braces may also be a reason to consult a specialist.
The duration of orthodontic treatment in Lorton, VA is determined by the complexity of the problems being corrected, such as malocclusion, gaps between teeth, or crowding. In most cases, our patients successfully complete treatment within two years.
FAQ
Is it possible to put braces on one jaw?
Quite a tempting option for many. But it should be understood that the answer is hidden in the name of the Braces system, which implies SYSTEMIC work of the orthodontic device. And initially, such a decision may be fundamentally wrong, and the amount saved will no longer be such, because all the treatment, and most importantly - time, will go down the drain.
Will braces ruin my teeth?
I'll say right away that braces do not ruin teeth. But only if you follow the rules of hygiene and the doctor's recommendations.
Can teeth fall out after braces?
After proper treatment, this is absolutely impossible. Teeth mobility during treatment with braces is possible, and this is normal (after all, teeth move, and this is quite logical). Retention, consisting of both removable and non-removable devices (retainer, mouth guards, plates), will help maintain the position of the teeth after treatment. It will help keep the teeth in their correct position.