Royal Oak and Birmingham, MI
Are you considering orthodontic treatment to address crooked teeth, bite problems, or other concerns? You might feel hesitant because you’re not sure what to expect.
Orthodontic issues can worsen over time, so it’s best not to wait too long to seek treatment. At Hartrick Dentistry, we want our patients to understand the process of orthodontic treatment so they can take action sooner rather than later.
Initial Evaluation
Orthodontic treatment begins with a thorough evaluation of your teeth and bite.
During this assessment, we may identify:
- Spaced teeth mean visible gaps in your smile. These gaps can create “black spaces” that affect the appearance of your smile and make it harder to keep the area clean, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
- Crowded teeth happen when the jaw doesn’t have enough room to fit all teeth properly, or if a tooth grows in crooked. This causes teeth to tilt, rotate, or shift, which can make them harder to clean and affect your confidence.
- Midline problems occur when the center line of your smile doesn’t align with the center of your face, causing a slightly off appearance.
- Bite issues include conditions like overbite, underbite, and crossbite, which can range from cosmetic concerns to serious functional problems.
Referral to a Specialist (If Needed)
At Hartrick Dentistry, we can treat a wide range of orthodontic issues. However, if your case is complex or severe, we may refer you to an orthodontic specialist for the best possible care.
Our practice also features a team of dental specialists, so if your treatment requires expertise beyond general orthodontics, we’ll guide you to the right expert to ensure optimal results.
Fixed vs. Removable Orthodontic Appliances
Orthodontic treatment works by applying controlled forces to your teeth, encouraging the bone around them to reshape and allowing teeth to move into better positions. These appliances come in two main types: fixed and removable.
Fixed Orthodontic Appliances
Fixed appliances are bonded to your teeth, providing constant force. These are often recommended when continuous pressure is necessary or when consistent wear can’t be guaranteed.
Common fixed appliances include:
- Braces
- Fixed spacers
- Permanent retainers
Braces use brackets, bands, and wires to move teeth gradually. Fixed spacers help maintain space when a tooth is lost prematurely or extracted before implant placement. Permanent retainers keep your teeth in place after treatment, especially when removable retainers aren’t a practical option.
Removable Orthodontic Appliances
Removable appliances offer flexibility—you wear them as needed and remove them for eating, cleaning, or special occasions. Their success depends on your commitment to wearing them as prescribed.
Common removable appliances include:
- Clear aligners (such as Invisalign)
- Removable retainers
Clear aligners are a series of custom-made plastic trays designed to shift teeth progressively without the need for brackets or wires. Retainers keep your teeth in their new positions following treatment and can be worn full-time initially, then gradually reduced.
Your Role in Successful Treatment
Orthodontics is a proven science, but success also depends on you.
For fixed appliances, your main responsibility is maintaining excellent oral hygiene and following dietary guidelines to avoid damaging the appliances. You’ll also need to attend regular appointments to monitor progress.
For removable appliances, you must wear them for the recommended amount of time (typically 22 hours a day for clear aligners) and follow care instructions such as removing them when eating and cleaning your teeth before reinserting the appliance.
If you adhere to the treatment plan, you’re very likely to achieve the smile you desire within the expected timeframe.
Ready to Start Orthodontic Treatment in Royal Oak or Birmingham?
Curious about what orthodontic treatment will look like for you? Contact Hartrick Dentistry today at 248-712-1149 to schedule your detailed evaluation and personalized treatment plan. Take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile!