“Orthodontics” comes from the Greek orthos (straight) and odons (teeth). It treats misaligned teeth and jaw irregularities. Treatment used to be mainly for teens and pre-teens, but around 30% of orthodontic patients are now adults.
Well-aligned teeth are easier to clean, support better oral hygiene and clearer speech, and give you a more pleasant smile. Treatment works at any age, but the American Dental Association suggests a first orthodontic assessment around age seven, since earlier treatment can resolve problems more quickly.
What orthodontics treats
- Bite discrepancies: an overbite (upper teeth too far forward) or underbite (lower teeth too far forward).
- Overcrowding: not enough space for adult teeth to grow in normally.
- Cosmetic concerns: even a single misaligned tooth can be realigned accurately. Orthodontics can also work with other treatments to reshape the lips, jaw or face.
Treatment options
After a visual exam, panoramic x-rays and study models (bite impressions), options include:
- Fixed braces: metal or ceramic brackets on each tooth, joined by a wire that’s adjusted regularly to guide teeth into place, then removed.
- Removable appliances: headgear to correct overbites, Hawley retainers that hold tooth position as the jaw reforms, and facemasks to correct underbites.
- Invisalign®: clear, removable aligners that work like braces without getting in the way of eating. Not everyone is a candidate.