Who Is a Candidate for Braces?
Temecula, CA
 Orthodontic treatments, particularly braces, have become increasingly popular in recent years. Braces are no longer the domain of teenagers, as adults are now seeking orthodontic treatment to improve their smiles as well. Not only do braces create a more aesthetically pleasing smile, but they can also improve your oral health.
However, some patients do not qualify as candidates for braces. If you are wondering whether you qualify for braces, our orthodontic specialists at Roncone Orthodontics will be happy to assess your condition and determine if braces are the best course of action for you.
How Do Braces Work?
Dental or orthodontic braces are used to correct misaligned teeth and bite issues. Braces are made up of brackets that are attached to the teeth, wires, and elastic rubber bands that connect them. These brackets are made from either stainless steel, ceramic, or plastic. The wires are attached to the brackets and secured with small elastic rubber bands.
As the braces are tightened, they exert gentle and controlled pressure on the teeth, gradually shifting them into proper alignment. This can take six months to two years, depending on how severe the misalignment is.
Who Is a Candidate for Braces?
While anyone qualifies for braces, you may be a good candidate if you have crooked teeth, overcrowding, bite issues such as an overbite or underbite, and spacing problems.
Other reasons that can make you a good candidate for braces include jaw growth or development problems, impacted teeth, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, which can cause jaw pain. In some cases, braces may also be used to correct speech problems caused by misaligned teeth.
Factors Determining Candidacy for Braces
Before you consider getting braces, our dentist or orthodontist, will assess the structure of your teeth and your bite. This assessment will determine whether braces are the best solution for your dental problem.
Age
While orthodontic treatment can work well for everyone, certain types of braces are more suited for different age groups. For example, experts suggest that children undergo their first orthodontic evaluation by age seven. Early intervention can address crowding, crossbites, and jaw growth problems. Traditional metal braces and ceramic braces are the most common choices for children.
Unlike children, traditional metal braces, ceramic braces, and Invisalign are suitable for teenagers. Traditional metal braces, ceramic braces, Invisalign, and lingual braces are suitable for adults due to their discrete nature.
Dental Conditions
Various dental conditions can make someone a candidate for braces. Braces can effectively align and straighten crooked or crowded teeth, improving aesthetics and oral health. Malocclusions, such as overbites, underbites, crossbites, and open bites, can all be corrected with braces.
Braces can also help close gaps between teeth and create a more uniform appearance. Braces help correct jaw misalignment issues, particularly when used in conjunction with other orthodontic appliances.
Oral and Facial Structure
How braces are used, and the final results of the treatment can be influenced by factors such as the shape of the face, size of the jaw, length of teeth, and amount of gum tissue. A person's oral and facial structure can also determine which type of braces are most suitable for them.
For instance, some people have a small mouth and jaw, which may limit their treatment options. In such cases, lingual braces may be the best option. On the other hand, people with a larger jaw may benefit from traditional metal braces or Invisalign. Your bone density and gum health can also affect your candidacy for braces.
Schedule With Your Temecula Orthodontist Today!
To determine if you or your child are a candidate for braces, Dr. Roncone will first conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the teeth, jaw, and facial structure. The evaluation may also include x-rays, photographs, and impressions of the teeth to assess the current state of your teeth and identify any underlying issues.
Once the evaluation is complete, he will be able to tell you if braces are an appropriate treatment for your dental issues. Call us at (951) 595-8291 for an appointment. |
