Orthodontics Chula Vista

What is orthodontics?

Orthodontics is a special branch of dentistry that seeks to correct misaligned bites through proper alignment of the teeth and jaws. Orthodontists go through additional training after they have graduated with their dental degree, ensuring that they are best equipped to serve you and your family. Orthodontics is a vital part of any dental practice, and The Center for Beautiful Smiles is proud to offer the full array of orthodontic treatments, including braces for teens and adults, plus Invisalign.

Having a good bite makes it easier to bite, speak, and chew and is part of the overall health of your jaw and mouth. Braces and aligners are used to guide teeth into the proper position when they are misaligned, crowded, spaced too far, or do not meet at all.

Why is orthodontic treatment necessary?

Having a properly aligned bite is essential for full speaking and chewing function. In the best possible bite, your upper and lower teeth make full contact on their chewing surfaces when you close your mouth. A misaligned bite makes chewing more difficult, increases wear on your teeth, and makes the formation of certain vocal sounds more difficult.

In addition, misaligned teeth can lead to other problems. If teeth become crowded, they are more difficult to clean, which increases the likelihood of cavities and gum disease. Crowded teeth can lead to chronic pain as teeth continue to push against each other. Orthodontics prevents all these problems by ensuring that teeth are straight and aligned, with enough space to provide for cleaning and prevent pain.

Types of Orthodontic Treatments

The orthodontist uses several time-tested tools to straighten your teeth:

• Traditional braces are a common, reliable treatment. Braces consist of metal brackets attached to each tooth, connected by wires. This carefully calibrated assembly gradually pushes teeth into alignment over time. Braces can be worn by patients of any age. Though the treatment takes months or years, the result is a perfectly straight smile that can last for life.
• Invisalign is a recently developed alternative to braces for patients who want their orthodontic treatment to be invisible. This procedure involves wearing a customized set of clear plastic retainers that work the same way as braces, shifting the position of teeth over time. Invisalign is especially popular with teens who are self-conscious about their appearance.
• Retainers are worn after braces or Invisalign. Recently shifted teeth need time to settle into the gums, and retainers ensure that they stay in place. Retainers should be worn on a regular schedule as prescribed by your orthodontist.

Retainers are used to retain and stabilize your teeth in position after the end of your orthodontic treatment. Orthodontics can be helpful for both children and adults.

The Center for Beautiful Smiles invites you to explore our many orthodontic treatment options whether you want to straighten your teeth for esthetic purpose or misalignment of your teeth has been causing your bite to shift over time. If you or your child needs orthodontic treatment, don’t hesitate to get the proper care. The earlier in life, the better! Schedule a complimentary consultation with Drs. Pham and associates and they and their staff will be happy to discuss how orthodontics can benefit you.

He is always happy to discuss your options with you. You can also visit our dental videos page for many informative short videos on orthodontics.