Orthodontic treatment is about much more than a beautiful smile. While an attractive smile is a nice result, the true benefits of orthodontic treatment go much deeper. In fact, good oral health is very closely connected to good overall health. And good oral health is much easier to achieve with straight teeth. An experienced orthodontist at Jones Family Orthodontics is here to help you have a beautiful, healthy smile.
Orthodontic treatment plays an important role in reducing gum disease. The straighter your teeth are, the fewer places the bacteria has to hide. Brushing and flossing are not only easier but more effective with straight teeth. And proper brushing and flossing lead to excellent dental health, which contributes to better health overall.
When your teeth are properly aligned, it can improve your bite and in some cases, even your speech as well.
Why see an orthodontist and not just a dentist?
A dentist’s goal is to help maintain your dental health. Regular dental checkups and cleanings can help keep oral bacteria at bay and identify dental or hygienic issues. But a dentist will clean your teeth regardless of whether they are crooked or misaligned. An orthodontist, on the other hand, is specially trained to straighten your teeth out.
Orthodontists, in addition to being trained like dentists as doctors in dental health, are also trained in diagnosing and treating misalignments of teeth and jaws. They study for an additional 2-3 years to receive a specialty certification in orthodontics.
Why see a Board Certified Orthodontist like Dr. Jones?
Dr. Jones is a Board Certified Orthodontist. Board Certification by the American Board Of Orthodontics is a voluntary credential that represents an orthodontist’s personal and public commitment to the standards of orthodontics and continued education. The ABO Certification process requires the completion of peer-developed, externally validated written and clinical examinations. A Board Certified Orthodontist has reached this level of achievement by pursuing additional voluntary education and ongoing self- assessment. Only about 30% of orthodontists have achieved board certification. They have reached a level of achievement that goes beyond what is required for licensure, and they must complete additional education and ongoing assessment.
When should I see an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children have an orthodontic evaluation by the age of 7. This is because by 7, children usually have enough permanent teeth to indicate if there’s an issue, but they are still growing, so it’s relatively easy to affect the outcome. Orthodontic care early in life can affect jaw growth and bone structure, leading to more space for permanent teeth and a better smile down the road.
However, it is never too late to seek orthodontic treatment. While it may not be as common to see an orthodontist as an adult, orthodontic care later in life can still have a direct effect on your smile, your confidence and even your overall health.
What type of treatments do orthodontists use?
There have been many scientific advances in orthodontic treatment recently, leading to a variety of treatment options. Orthodontic treatment at Jones Family Orthodontics includes metal and ceramic braces, and clear aligners. We also offer early intervention orthodontics.
Alleviating Jaw Pain and Improving Functionality
Orthodontic treatment can also help with the alignment of your jaw, which can alleviate a range of issues such as jaw pain, difficulty chewing, or even headaches. These symptoms often result from an improper bite, and correcting the alignment can provide significant relief. When the teeth and jaws are properly aligned, your overall comfort and functionality improve, contributing to better oral health and daily ease of movement.
Boosting Self-Esteem and Confidence
In addition to improving physical comfort, orthodontics can also enhance your self-esteem. Whether it’s through traditional braces or clear aligners, straightening your teeth can give you the confidence to smile freely in social and professional situations. The psychological benefits of a beautiful smile are just as important as the physical improvements, and they can lead to positive changes in your personal and professional life. At Jones Family Orthodontics, we believe that a healthy, aligned smile goes hand-in-hand with boosting your confidence and overall well-being.
If you want to learn more about orthodontics and getting a straight, healthy, beautiful smile contact Jones Family Orthodontics. Request a complimentary consultation online or call us at (360) 863-0303
