Royal Oak and Birmingham, MI
Are you considering orthodontic treatment to address crooked teeth, bite problems, or other concerns? It’s normal to feel uncertain if you don’t know what the process will involve.
Orthodontic issues can worsen over time, so it’s best to seek treatment sooner rather than later. At Hartrick Dentistry, we want our patients to feel confident by understanding what to expect throughout their orthodontic journey.
Initial Evaluation
Orthodontic treatment begins with a thorough evaluation of your teeth and bite.
During this exam, we may identify:
- Spaced teeth
- Crowded teeth
- Midline alignment issues
- Bite problems
Spaced teeth cause visible gaps in your smile, which can be both a cosmetic concern and a health issue since gaps can trap plaque and increase the risk of cavities and gum disease.
Crowded teeth happen when your jaws don’t have enough room for all your teeth or when a tooth erupts crooked, causing other teeth to shift, tilt, or rotate. This crowding not only affects your smile’s appearance but can also make cleaning more difficult.
Midline problems occur when the center line of your smile doesn’t match the center of your face, giving a slightly off-balance appearance.
Bite problems, such as overbite, underbite, or crossbite, range from cosmetic to functional concerns that can impact chewing and jaw health.
Referral to Orthodontic Specialists if Needed
At Hartrick Dentistry, we treat a wide variety of orthodontic concerns. However, some severe bite problems may require care from an orthodontic specialist. If your case is beyond our scope, we’ll gladly refer you to trusted orthodontists in the Royal Oak and Birmingham area.
Our team includes various dental specialists, and we know how valuable expert collaboration can be for optimal care. Your best outcome is our priority.
Fixed vs. Removable Orthodontic Appliances
Orthodontic treatment uses appliances to apply gentle, controlled forces that encourage your teeth to move by reshaping the bone around them. These appliances fall into two categories:
Fixed Orthodontic Appliances
These are bonded to your teeth and provide constant force, making them ideal for more complex movements or for patients who may struggle with compliance.
Common fixed appliances include:
- Braces (brackets and wires)
- Fixed spacers (to maintain space after tooth loss)
- Permanent retainers (to keep teeth in place after treatment)
Removable Orthodontic Appliances
Removable appliances offer more flexibility, as you can take them out for eating, cleaning, or special occasions. However, they rely heavily on patient compliance for effective results.
Common removable appliances include:
- Clear aligners (such as Invisalign or ClearCorrect)
- Removable retainers
Clear aligners use a series of custom-made plastic trays worn sequentially to gradually move teeth. They allow you to maintain your normal diet and hygiene routine without brackets or wires.
Retainers hold your teeth in their new position after orthodontic treatment, helping maintain your beautiful results.
Your Role in Successful Orthodontic Treatment
Orthodontics is a proven science, but your cooperation is key to achieving the best outcome.
- For fixed appliances, keep all scheduled appointments, follow dietary guidelines to avoid damaging your braces, and maintain excellent oral hygiene around the appliances.
- For removable appliances, wear them as instructed (usually about 22 hours daily for clear aligners), remove them only when eating or cleaning, and care for your teeth before reinserting them.
Following these guidelines will help ensure your treatment progresses as planned and your smile improves on schedule.
Ready to Improve Your Smile?
If you’re interested in orthodontic treatment and want to learn more about what to expect, contact Hartrick Dentistry today for a comprehensive evaluation.
Call us at (248) 712-1149 to schedule your appointment at our Royal Oak or Birmingham, MI locations and take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile.