Mention “orthodontist,” and it brings thoughts of dental professionals who apply braces to most people’s minds. Yet, orthodontists provide numerous services beyond just braces, specifically in the arena of the alignment of teeth and the repositioning of jaws. These services are not only needed to improve appearance, but they may be necessary to restore the teeth and jaws after accident-related damages. Orthodontists have a variety of treatment options and services to fix these problems.
Braces
Braces consist of wires, brackets, and bands which are tightened over a specific period of time to straighten teeth. Although many orthodontic patients are seeking an aesthetically pleasing aligned smile, patients with overbites, underbites, gapped teeth, or overcrowding may need braces as well.
Space Maintainers
When teeth are lost, such as when they are knocked out (avulsed) in an accident, space fillers can be put in so that other teeth do not grow into the space meant for the tooth that’s missing.
Aligners
Aligners help to straighten and align teeth. They are used by patients looking to fix underbites, overbites, overcrowding, open bites, and crossbites. Aligners are clear trays which fit precisely around the teeth to mold them into correct alignment and spacing.
Jaw Repositioning Appliances
Jaw repositioning appliances are also referred to as splints. They are used to move the position of either the upper or the lower jaw so that it can close more naturally. This is particularly helpful for people with temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMJ.
Lip and Cheek Bumpers
Sometimes accident-related injuries can cause a person’s lips and cheeks to put pressure on teeth and cause pain or discomfort. Lip and cheek bumpers help to keep lips and cheeks separated from the teeth to reduce or eliminate any pain, pressure, and discomfort.
Palatal Expander
A palatal expander is a device that widens the curve of the upper jaw. It is a plastic tray which is screwed to the roof of the mouth to push the bones and joints in the mouth outward.
Removable Retainers
After braces or aligners are removed, a retainer can keep the teeth from shifting back to their original position. They typically consist of a plate that is placed on the roof of the mouth with a metal bar which encircles the top front teeth. Many times these aligners are worn overnight.
Headgear
Headgear help patients who need to slow down the growth rate of their jaw. Headgear usually consists of a strap placed around the back part of the head which is securely attached to a metal wire in the front of the mouth. They ensure that teeth are in the correct place and fit nicely with the jaw.
Orthodontists provide help for a variety of oral cavity problems including those that stem from accidents and personal injury. An orthodontist, like an orthodontist in San Clemente, CA, can be a valuable ally in a personal injury lawsuit by providing medical confirmation of your damages and the need for treatment. For more information, schedule a visit with an orthodontist in your area today.
Thanks to John Redmond Orthodontics for their insight into the services orthodontists can provide to their accident victims to correct any dental issues they may have.
