If you're experiencing a bite problem and are wondering if you should seek orthodontic care, you're not alone. According to Ask the Dentist, a popular dental and orthodontic-centered blog, around 5-10% of people have an underbite. Thankfully, there are orthodontic treatments that can help to correct bite problems. Here are a few of the common ways that orthodontists fix bite issues.

Identifying the Problematic Areas

There are several different types of uneven bites. Identifying the type that the patient has is the first step to finding the right solution. The two most common bites are over and underbites. In addition to these two, orthodontists also treat crossbites, deep bites, and open bites. Other bite-related issues include gap teeth and overcrowded teeth. If you think you or your children have a bite issue, it's important to schedule a consultation with a local orthodontist as soon as possible. The sooner the issue is addressed, the better!

Determining the Right Orthodontic Treatment

When it comes to bite problems, there are several severe cases where braces are the only option. For less prominent bite issues, your orthodontist might recommend Invisalign as a treatment. There's no way to know which type of treatment is the most appropriate until after your orthodontist conducts a diagnostic exam. This will allow them to review their prognosis with you and determine which course of treatment is the most appropriate for your unique set of teeth. Once your plan has been agreed upon, treatment can begin with braces, removable aligner trays, or another orthodontic treatment.

Setting Up Ongoing Care

Many orthodontic treatment periods can last up to and over a year. This, of course, depends on the severity of the condition being fixed. Once your braces are removed or you complete your tray cycle, you'll begin ongoing care. For some patients, it's as easy as coming back for a check-up in six months or a year. For others, it can include ongoing care such as having to wear a retainer for a certain length of time. It's important to attend all follow-up appointments and follow your orthodontist's instructions carefully. This part of your treatment helps keep the results from the treatment.

If you're looking for local orthodontists to help you get your dream smile, we're the ones to call. Contact Boland Orthodontics today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how our treatments can help you. We look forward to hearing from you soon!