Braces are a common orthodontic treatment. They consist of brackets and wires that attach to your teeth in order to shift them into proper alignment. Braces are capable of straightening your teeth and aligning your bite so that the upper teeth meet together properly with the lower teeth.
If you have teeth that are crooked or out of alignment, you may be wondering if braces would be the right treatment option for you. Overbite is one of the most common orthodontic conditions, and it often causes the bottom row of teeth to be crowded together. Can you get braces on just the bottom row of teeth? Here’s what you need to know about braces and how they work.
What Are Braces?
Braces are the most effective orthodontic treatment available that can correct the vast majority of orthodontic problems. A metal or ceramic square-shaped bracket is attached to the front of each tooth. The brackets are all connected by an archwire that pushes and pulls the teeth in different directions until they are properly aligned. Rubber bands, springs, and chains may be used along with braces to make additional adjustments.
How Do I Know if I Need Braces?
Most people do not have perfectly aligned teeth. But if you think you or your child may need braces, an orthodontic evaluation is in order. In fact, children should have an orthodontic evaluation by the age of seven to determine if any early treatment is necessary or would be beneficial for growth and development.
Do I Need Braces On All of My Teeth?
It is most likely that you will need braces on all of your teeth. But it is possible to get them on just the top or the bottom row of teeth if that is the main problem area. The potential problem with getting braces on just the top or the bottom teeth is that once those teeth have been straightened out and shifted, they may not meet together properly with the other teeth. Adjustments will typically need to be made to both rows of teeth at the same time to help them fit together.
I Don’t Like the Look of Braces, Are There Alternatives?
If the reason that you would prefer to have braces on only your bottom teeth is because you are concerned about your appearance, there are alternative treatment options that may be effective and more discreet.
Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that is virtually invisible on your teeth. It consists of clear plastic aligners that fit over the teeth and gradually shift them into the desired position. Patients with mild to moderate orthodontic issues are often good candidates for Invisalign.
Why Choose Dr. Suzanne Stock?
Dr. Stock is a board certified orthodontist, meaning she is highly qualified in the field of orthodontics and has gone above and beyond to meet the requirements for certification. When it comes to your orthodontic needs, Dr. Stock will make a recommendation for the best course of treatment for you, taking your preferences into consideration. We want you to feel comfortable and confident with your orthodontic treatment while improving your dental health and smile.
To learn more, contact us today and schedule a complimentary consultation.