Orthodontics, a specialised branch of dentistry, focuses on diagnosing, preventing, and treating any issues related to our teeth and jaw. This field might not create the same urgency that general dentistry does, favouring fillings and root canals. However, orthodontics holds a significant position in our oral health regime. Through the insights provided by Southampton Orthodontists, this article will enlighten you about the crucial role of orthodontics in maintaining our oral health.
To begin with, orthodontics treats malocclusions or ‘bad bites’. These are problems related to the alignment of the teeth and jaw. Some examples of malocclusions include orthodontics southampton under-bites, over-bites, cross-bites, open bites, misplaced midlines, and various types of spacing and crowding issues. These issues, if ignored, can lead to more severe dental problems such as tooth decay, gum disease, facial pain, and even headaches.
Southampton Orthodontists focus on diagnosing these issues at an early stage. They suggest that children between the age of 7 and 14 should undergo a dental check-up because it is during this period that the jaw is still growing, making it ideal for orthodontic treatments. Early detection can result in less invasive procedures and shorter treatment times.
Another importance of orthodontics from the perspective of Southampton Orthodontics is its role in keeping our oral hygiene top-notch. When our teeth are misaligned, crowded, or spaced too far apart, they become challenging to clean efficiently. This situation can lead to a build-up of plaque, which increases the risk of gum disease and cavities. Orthodontic treatments can align our teeth accurately, making them easier to clean and reducing the possibility of any potential oral diseases.
Orthodontics also plays a crucial role in improving our speech and eating functions. Misaligned teeth and jaws can lead to problems in chewing food efficiently and may also cause speech impediments. Southampton Orthodontists identifies these issues and uses orthodontic treatments to align teeth and jaws accurately, allowing for improved speech and better digestion of food.
An underestimated yet essential aspect of orthodontics lies in its ability to enhance our self-esteem. The impact of having a beautiful, healthy smile on our self-confidence cannot be overstated. A misaligned or discoloured tooth could lead to embarrassment or self-consciousness, significantly affecting one’s social interactions and emotional wellbeing. Orthodontics offers solutions through braces, clear aligners, or teeth whitening procedures that can help achieve a perfect, confident smile.
Lastly, Southampton Orthodontists emphasize the importance of orthodontics in planning other dental procedures such as implants, bridges, or cosmetic dentistry. Orthodontics can create an ideal teeth arrangement that helps achieve better results for these procedures. Without a proper orthodontic assessment, the longevity and effectiveness of these treatments could be compromised.
In conclusion, understanding the importance of orthodontics is crucial for maintaining overall oral health. It’s not just about achieving a ‘perfect smile’, but rather about preventing dental diseases, improving the quality of life, and boosting self-esteem. Southampton Orthodontists remind us that aligning teeth and jaws correctly can significantly enhance our oral health and overall wellbeing. So next time you visit your dentist, do consider a consultation with an orthodontist to ensure a comprehensive approach to your oral health.