There are many methods that an orthodontist will use to fix these types of malocclusions.
The first step is Assessment. Dr. John Walker, Dr. Liz Walker and a Walker Orthodontics associate will assess the current state of your teeth and predict how likely they are to develop without orthodontic treatment. A full medical and dental health history, x-rays of the teeth and jaw, a clinical examination, and a plaster model of the patient’s teeth will help the doctor determine your treatment options.
The second step is Treatment. Dental treatment can begin from the age of 3, so it is important to get an assessment completed as early as possible. Fixed appliances are used when precision is imperative. Although patients can eat normally with these appliances, they are recommended to avoid some foods and drinks that may damage them. Appliances regularly used are braces, fixed space maintainers, or special fixed appliances, the latter of which should only be used if necessary. Unlike fixed appliances, removable appliances can be taken out of the patient’s mouth at any time. However, they should only be taken out when cleaning, eating, flossing, or if the doctor recommends that they be removed for activities like sports or playing an instrument. Orthodontists regularly use removable retainers, lip and cheek bumpers, splints, aligners (like Invisalign), palatal expanders and headgear.
The third step is known as Debanding, or the removal of any fixed appliances and ceasing to use removable appliances. However, it is recommended that you wear a retainer after treatment to ensure that your teeth don’t shift from their new positions. The general rule for wearing your retainer is “Wear your retainer for as long as you want your teeth to stay straight.”
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