Orthodontics in Roseville, CA
Orthodontic treatment can improve the position of teeth and address selected bite concerns. Depending on individual needs, treatment may involve traditional braces, clear aligners, or another appropriate approach. Treatment recommendations are based on dental alignment, bite relationships, oral health, and individual treatment goals.
Eureka Ridge Dentistry offers orthodontics in Roseville, CA, for teens and adults with appropriate alignment or bite concerns. An orthodontic evaluation can help determine which treatment approach may be suitable.
What Is Orthodontic Treatment?
Orthodontic treatment uses controlled forces to gradually move teeth into planned positions. It may address concerns involving tooth alignment, crowding, spacing, and selected bite relationships.
Treatment can involve fixed appliances, such as braces, or removable appliances, such as clear aligners. The appropriate approach depends on the type and complexity of the concern, oral health, dental development, and other clinical factors.
Before beginning orthodontic services, an evaluation helps determine the nature of the alignment or bite concern and whether treatment is appropriate.
What Can Orthodontic Treatment Address?
Orthodontic care may be considered for several types of tooth alignment and bite concerns.
Crooked or Crowded Teeth
Crooked or rotated teeth may be gradually repositioned through orthodontic treatment. Crowding happens when there isn’t enough space in the dental arch for the teeth to line up precisely.
Gaps Between Teeth
Spaces can develop because of tooth size, tooth position, missing teeth, or other factors. Orthodontic tooth movement may be used to close or redistribute selected spaces.
Overbite and Overjet
An overbite measures the vertical overlap between the upper and lower front teeth. Overjet describes the horizontal distance that the upper front teeth extend ahead of the lower front teeth.
Underbite
An underbite is present when the lower front teeth project in front of the upper front teeth when biting down.
Crossbite
A crossbite occurs when the normal positioning of the upper and lower teeth is reversed in selected areas.
Open Bite
An open bite occurs when some opposing teeth remain apart even when the mouth is fully closed.
Treatment suitability depends on the cause and complexity of the condition. More complex bite or jaw-related concerns may require evaluation by an orthodontic specialist.
Orthodontic Treatment Options
Different orthodontic appliances can be used to apply controlled forces to the teeth. Appliance selection depends on the alignment or bite concern and individual treatment needs.
Traditional Braces
Traditional braces use brackets and wires anchored to the teeth to gradually guide tooth movement. The appliances remain fixed during treatment and are adjusted as needed according to the treatment plan.
Because brackets and wires remain on the teeth, careful oral hygiene is important. Patients may also receive instructions about foods or habits that could damage the appliances.
Invisalign Clear Aligners
Invisalign uses a planned series of removable clear aligners to gradually reposition selected teeth. Clear aligner treatment may be considered for patients whose orthodontic needs are appropriate for this approach.
Aligners are customized for the teeth and can be removed for meals and oral hygiene. Each set is worn and changed according to the prescribed treatment plan. Consistent wear and progress appointments are important for monitoring tooth movement.
Clear aligners are a substitute for traditional braces for selected patients but are not suitable for every orthodontic concern.
Who May Be a Candidate for Orthodontic Treatment?
Orthodontic treatment may be considered for teens and adults with concerns involving tooth position, spacing, crowding, or selected bite relationships.
Factors considered during an evaluation may include:
- Type and extent of tooth misalignment
- Condition of the teeth and gums
- Dental development
- Bite relationships
- Ability to maintain oral hygiene
- Ability to follow treatment instructions
- Treatment goals and expectations
Active cavities or other oral health concerns may need to be addressed before treatment begins. Age alone does not determine candidacy; recommendations are based on individual clinical findings.
What Happens During Orthodontic Treatment?
Patients searching for orthodontic treatment near me can expect treatment planning to begin with an individual evaluation. The process may include:
- Dental and bite evaluation: The teeth, gums, alignment, and bite relationships are assessed.
- Discussion of concerns: Alignment concerns, treatment goals, and preferences are reviewed.
- Diagnostic records: Photos, X-rays, or other records may be obtained when clinically indicated.
- Scan or impressions: A digital scan or dental impressions may be used to record tooth positions when appropriate.
- Treatment planning: The findings are used to determine the appliance and planned tooth movement.
- Starting treatment: Braces may be placed or clear aligners delivered according to the selected treatment plan.
- Progress monitoring: Follow-up appointments allow tooth movement, appliance fit, and treatment progress to be evaluated.
- Retention: Retainers are recommended after active treatment to help maintain the corrected tooth positions.
Treatment duration and appointment frequency vary according to the orthodontic concern, appliance, response to treatment, and individual plan.
Braces vs Clear Aligners
Both approaches move teeth through controlled forces, but the appliances and day-to-day requirements differ.
| Factor | Traditional Braces | Clear Aligners |
|---|---|---|
| Appliance | Fixed brackets and wires | Removable clear trays |
| Removal | Remain attached during treatment | Removed for meals and oral hygiene |
| Eating | Certain foods may need modification | Trays are removed before eating |
| Oral Hygiene | Cleaning around brackets and wires is required | Trays can be taken out prior to brushing and flossing |
| Compliance | Appliance remains fixed | Consistent prescribed wear is important |
| Suitability | Depends on individual orthodontic needs | Depends on orthodontic needs and patient compliance |
| Monitoring | Progress appointments are required | Progress appointments are required |
Neither option is universally better. The appropriate approach depends on the alignment or bite concern and individual clinical findings.
Caring for Your Teeth During Orthodontic Treatment
Keeping oral hygiene in check is essential due to the collection of plaque and food particles around teeth and orthodontic devices.
Practical care includes:
- Brush thoroughly and clean between the teeth as instructed.
- Clean carefully around brackets and wires when wearing braces.
- Remove clear aligners for meals and routine oral hygiene.
- Clean removable aligners according to the provided instructions.
- Follow dietary guidance intended to prevent appliance damage.
- Attend scheduled dental and orthodontic appointments.
- Contact the office if an appliance becomes damaged or no longer fits properly.
Routine dental exams and professional cleanings should continue according to individual oral health needs.
