Since malocclusion may interfere with eating and speaking, it is usually considered a restorative issue. Although, because a malocclusion may prevent the development of a beautiful, well-aligned smile or facial jaw lines, it may also be classified as an esthetic issue and categorized as cosmetic dentistry.

No matter what your age, orthodontics can protect your bite (occlusion), maximize your teeth’s effectiveness in performing their functions and create a well-aligned smile. Today’s orthodontics involves repositioning of the teeth and underlying roots, providing better support for the crown of the tooth. Orthodontic treatment is now associated with the benefits of greater esthetic appeal, increased comfort and reduced treatment time.

Orthodontic treatment can also rejuvenate your facial appearance by reshaping the jaw, neck and lips, especially when combined with maxillofacial surgical procedures. In addition, well-aligned teeth make oral hygiene easier to maintain.

Esthetic Appeal: A new, popular form of dental braces for those with mild tooth movement requirements is clear dental braces (tooth-colored dental braces). These “invisible braces” or aligners are made of a flexible, clear, thin material that fits tightly over the teeth. This material is changed out every two to three weeks so that gradual tooth movement occurs. To monitor the movement of the teeth, your orthodontist will likely want to see you every six to eight weeks.

And in the end, you are rewarded with a beautiful, well-aligned smile.