Our Services / Orthodontics

What is orthodontics?

Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that diagnoses and treats misalignments of the teeth and jaw. Specifically, it uses custom-manufactured oral appliances to place mild pressure on your teeth. Over time, that pressure moves your teeth into the optimal position, improving the appearance and health of your smile.

What types of alignment issues can orthodontics correct?

At Gables Family Dental, the team uses orthodontics to correct various alignment issues, including:

• Crowding
• Crooked teeth
• Overlapping teeth
• Crossbite
• Overbite
• Underbite
• Gaps between teeth

You might also benefit from orthodontic treatment with Invisalign if you have a misaligned jaw that makes it difficult to bite or chew comfortably.  

What does orthodontics involve?

At Gables Family Dental, orthodontics treatment begins with an oral exam, a review of your dental health history, and a discussion of your goals.

If your teeth and gums appear healthy, your provider takes digital impressions of your mouth. They upload your impressions to a special computer program and use it to develop a custom orthodontic treatment plan. The plan maps out the step-by-step movements of your teeth and jaw.

After developing a treatment plan, your Gables Family Dental provider explains it to you. Then, they send your scans to a dental facility that manufactures your first set of Invisalign aligners.

When your aligners are finished, you return to Gables Family Dental. Throughout the course of Invisalign treatment, you visit the office every few weeks and change into a new pair of aligners. Each new pair places mild pressure on your teeth, improving their alignment and position.

How long does orthodontic treatment take?

The length of time that orthodontic treatment takes depends on the issues addressed and your commitment to the care plan. Most people complete Invisalign treatment in 12 months, but it can take 18 months* or longer. To speed up the process, it’s crucial you adhere to your dentists’ instructions. Attend each checkup and wear your aligners for 20-22 hours every day.

How do I clean my orthodontic aligners?

To keep your orthodontic aligners clean, the team recommends rinsing them off in tap water several times each day. You might also want to brush them with a soft-bristle toothbrush before going to bed. For more thorough cleanings, ask the Gables Family Dental team about Invisalign cleaning crystals.

To learn more about the benefits of orthodontics, make an appointment at Gables Family Dental by calling the nearest office today or scheduling online.

*Individual results may vary.