Orthodontics at Lakeshore Dental Specialists        

Dental care can be complex and often includes many different treatment paths. Our specialists at Lakeshore Dental are deeply committed to providing patients with comprehensive care that includes services provided by our team of experts as well as our trusted Detroit orthodontics specialists. Patients seeking orthodontic treatment, can be confident that they will receive the highest quality care and outstanding results.

What is Orthodontics?              

Orthodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry dedicated to diagnosing, preventing, and correcting irregularities in the alignment and positioning of teeth and jaws. This field encompasses various treatment methods and advanced technologies designed to achieve optimal dental and facial aesthetics and ideal functional ability. Orthodontic treatment addresses issues such as crooked, crowded, or misaligned teeth, enhancing the smile's appearance and aligning the jaw for better functionality. Orthodontic care typically involves using braces, aligners, and other appliances to gradually move teeth into their desired positions. The process begins with a comprehensive assessment, including x-rays, photographs, and dental impressions, to create a customized treatment plan. Orthodontists, who are dental specialists trained in this field, use their expertise to monitor progress and make necessary adjustments to ensure effective and efficient treatment.

Benefits of Orthodontics      

Orthodontic treatment offers numerous benefits beyond just straightening teeth. One major advantage is improved oral health; adequately aligned teeth are easier to clean and less likely to trap food and plaque, reducing the risk of cavities, gum disease, and other oral problems. As a result, orthodontic treatment contributes to a healthier mouth and overall well-being. Additionally, enhanced aesthetics is a significant benefit. A well-aligned smile boosts self-confidence and positively impacts personal and professional interactions, making a strong first impression and improving self-esteem. Orthodontics also improves functionality. Properly aligned teeth and jaws enhance biting, chewing, and speaking abilities, addressing any difficulties and discomfort caused by misalignment. This ensures that teeth and jaws work harmoniously and improves overall quality of life. Similarly, orthodontics can prevent future dental problems by addressing misalignment and bite issues early, thus avoiding more serious complications later in life. Untreated orthodontic problems can lead to excessive wear and tear on teeth, contributing to damage and loss. Therefore, seeking orthodontic care helps mitigate these risks and ensures long-term oral health.

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What Does Orthodontics Correct?        

Orthodontics is designed to correct dental and jaw issues, ensuring aesthetic and functional improvements. Below are some of the primary concerns that orthodontics addresses:

Crooked or Crowded Teeth              

Misaligned teeth can make it challenging to maintain good oral hygiene, leading to an increased risk of cavities, gum disease, and other dental problems. Orthodontics, by straightening teeth, promotes better oral health and easier maintenance.

Gaps Between Teeth              

These gaps, known as diastemas, can occur for several reasons, including the size of the teeth relative to the jawbone or habits such as thumb-sucking. Orthodontic treatment can close these gaps, resulting in a more uniform and aesthetically pleasing smile.

Bite Problems              

Overbite: Occurs when the upper front teeth excessively overlap the lower front teeth.
Underbite: Happens when the lower front teeth protrude beyond the upper front teeth.
Crossbite: Involves one or more teeth being misaligned horizontally.
Open Bite: Characterized by a gap between the upper and lower front teeth when the mouth is closed.

Jaw Misalignment              

Misaligned jaws can cause discomfort, pain, and difficulties in everyday activities like eating and speaking. Orthodontic treatment can realign the jaws, alleviate symptoms, and improve overall jaw function.

Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders              

Orthodontics can help reduce the risk of developing TMJ disorders, which are often associated with jaw misalignment and can lead to chronic pain and dysfunction.

Orthodontic Treatment Options        

Far from a one-size-fits-all approach, orthodontics is about meeting patients' needs based on tailored treatments designed to address each individual's particular concerns. Correcting both aesthetic and functional issues can be part of orthodontic care, but the method used depends on the patient. Your dental team can help you determine which method you are the best candidate for and discuss what to expect with each.

Metal Braces              

Metal braces are a traditional and proven effective orthodontic technique that has been used for decades to correct multiple orthodontic issues. Useful for more than just crooked teeth, metal braces can also correct overbites, underbites, overcrowding, and other misalignment concerns. Using a system of brackets, wire, and rubber bands, metal braces are placed on the teeth and then adjusted over time to gradually move the teeth into the proper position.

Ceramic Braces              

This option works to straighten teeth the exact same way as metal braces but is aesthetically more discreet and preferred by some patients who would rather their braces be less noticeable. Instead of silver metal brackets and bright rubber bands, ceramic braces use clear rubber bands and brackets that are transparent or close to the color of your teeth to blend in. They are just as effective as traditional steel braces but offer a lower aesthetic profile.

Clear Aligners              

Clear aligners are created by many manufacturers, but some of the pioneers and best known include Invisalign and 3M Clarity. They are the optimal choice for those who would like to avoid obvious braces and stick with the least noticeable orthodontic intervention. They are also completely removable and easy to care for. All clear aligners work by using a "tray" style, a transparent device that is shaped around the teeth to push them gently into the right place. The aligners are gradually replaced as the teeth shift. Not everyone is an ideal candidate for clear aligners, so it's important to speak with an experienced and knowledgeable dental professional.

Invisalign      

Invisalign is a modern orthodontic treatment that uses clear, removable aligners to gradually straighten teeth, offering an aesthetically appealing alternative to traditional braces. The aligners are virtually invisible, making them a popular choice for both adults and teenagers who want to maintain a natural-looking smile. Made from smooth, medical-grade plastic, Invisalign aligners are comfortable and less likely to irritate gums and cheeks. They are also removable, allowing for easy eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing, which helps maintain good oral hygiene without dietary restrictions. Using advanced 3D imaging technology, Invisalign provides a customized treatment plan with predictable results, typically involving wearing each set of aligners for about two weeks, with most treatments completed within 12 to 18 months. Regular check-ups ensure progress is monitored and adjustments are made as needed.

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Candidates for Orthodontic Treatment        

Many patients experiencing orthodontic concerns, including teeth that are crowded, gaps, overbite or underbite, or even TMJ and jaw problems, can benefit from our orthodontic treatment. Those who are currently dealing with periodontal disease will need to have this addressed prior to having braces. Additionally, people who have had extensive past dental work, such as bridges or implants, may not be ideal candidates for braces. The best way to determine if you are a candidate or which option is best for your dental health is to have a thorough consultation with dental experts who can take a fully customized approach to treatment. If you'd like to find out if you'd make a good candidate for orthodontics Detroit dentists at Lakeshore Dental Specialists can address that and any other questions you have during a consultation. Contact us today!

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Consultation and Preparation                  

During a consultation, our orthodontist will perform a full examination, discuss both your goals and dental history, and provide a detailed treatment plan, including any necessary referrals to our partners, along with preparation instructions if required.

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Orthodontics and Oral Hygiene      

Maintaining oral hygiene is crucial during orthodontic treatment to ensure optimal results and overall oral health. Whether you have braces or clear aligners, practicing proper cleaning techniques is essential to prevent plaque buildup, cavities, and gum disease. Orthodontic appliances can create additional spaces where food particles and plaque accumulate, making diligent oral care even more critical for those with braces, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to clean around brackets and wires, along with interdental brushes and floss threaders for hard-to-reach areas. Brushing after every meal helps remove food particles and prevent plaque buildup around the braces. Clear aligners, such as Invisalign, offer the advantage of being removable, making oral hygiene more straightforward. To avoid staining and damage, you should remove aligners before eating or drinking anything other than water. Brushing and flossing your teeth before putting the aligners back in is essential to prevent trapping food particles and bacteria. The aligners should be cleaned regularly with a soft toothbrush, mild soap, or a specialized cleaning solution. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are essential during orthodontic treatment to monitor oral health, provide cleanings, and address any issues. Additionally, maintaining a healthy diet by avoiding sticky, hard, and sugary foods can prevent damage to braces and reduce the risk of cavities. Drinking plenty of water and consuming a balanced diet with fruits, vegetables, and dairy products contribute to oral health.

Why choose Lakeshore?        

Experience the convenience of comprehensive dental care with Lakeshore Dental and our trusted orthodontists, serving patients in Detroit, MI. Our well-rounded team of experienced and skilled dental specialists is here to address all your needs, from standard preventative care to after-hours emergencies and everything in between. Enjoy a seamless experience and fully customized care for each patient's unique needs at Lakeshore Dental.

Orthodontics FAQs    

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                     What can happen after my orthodontic treatment if I don't wear my retainers regularly?                    

           Failure to wear retainers as instructed can lead to teeth shifting back to their original positions, compromising the results of your orthodontic treatment.          

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                     What is the best age to get orthodontic treatment?                    

           Orthodontic treatment can be beneficial at any age, but the ideal time is during childhood or early adolescence when the jaw and teeth are still developing. However, adults can also achieve excellent results with modern orthodontic options.          

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                     Are orthodontic treatments painful?                    

           Patients may experience some discomfort after the initial placement, but it is typically mild and lasts less than a week.          

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                     Are orthodontic treatments permanent?                    

           While orthodontic treatments aim to be permanent, lasting results depend on patient adherence to post-treatment maintenance, including the use of retainers.          

                     How much do orthodontic treatments cost?                    

           The cost varies widely depending on each patient's specific needs and goals.          

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                     Will my insurance cover orthodontics?                    

           In some cases, certain types of orthodontic care are covered by dental insurance, but coverage varies and should be confirmed with your provider.