Orthodontics is the specialty of dentistry and dentofacial orthopedics that deals with corrections involving jaw and teeth alignment. It is typically done on children between the ages of 7 and 14 when their faces are still developing.
Getting braces can be one of the most transformative experiences in life. Here are some tips to help you prepare and get the best results from your treatment.
Braces
Although adults tend to think of braces as a treatment for children or teens, the fact is that orthodontics can help people of all ages. The goal is to correct crooked teeth and alleviate crowded or overcrowded teeth, which can lead to a host of dental problems like bite issues, tooth decay, uneven wear on teeth, gum disease, impacted teeth and TMJ pain.
Metal braces feature metal brackets glued to the surface of each tooth, with metal wires laced between them to shape and mold teeth over time. Modern braces are much smaller and more comfortable than in the past, but some patients may still experience discomfort. For this reason, it is important to come in for regular adjustments and check-ups. Keeping your teeth clean while wearing braces is essential to avoid plaque buildup, which can cause gum irritation or gingivitis.
Invisalign
Our clear plastic aligners are nearly invisible, so you can straighten your smile without affecting how you look. They’re easy to remove when you’re eating or drinking, and can even be brushed and flossed with ease.
Crooked teeth aren’t just unsightly; they can cause stress on your teeth and jaws, leading to other oral health issues down the road. By correcting them with Invisalign, you can strengthen your bite and reduce the risk of future problems.
Sonali Rehil is an experienced board-certified orthodontist, serving patients of all ages in Woodland Hills. She brings a fresh perspective to orthodontic care, using innovative techniques and tools to ensure that her patients have the best possible experience. Her goal is to give her patients a healthy, confident, and unforgettable smile.
Damon® System
Damon System braces shift teeth more quickly than traditional metal braces, requiring less discomfort and shorter treatment times. They do this by combining tie-less brackets with a slide mechanism and high-technology, shape-memory wires that are thinner and lighter than traditional orthodontic wires.
With traditional braces, elastic ties act like bungee cords to hold arch wires in place, creating friction and requiring more frequent tightening appointments. These braces can also cause abrasions on the inside of the lips and cheek.
With Damon self-ligating braces, there is no need for elastic ties, and the friction is eliminated with a slide mechanism that opens and closes like a door. The clear self-ligating brackets blend in with the smile and are more comfortable for adult patients. This means faster treatment, fewer adjustments and appointments, and a beautiful new smile.
Accelerated Treatment
Orthodontic treatment is a wonderful way to improve the look of your smile and can even correct severe bite problems. However, it does take time to complete.
One solution is to accelerate your treatment with a method called accelerated orthodontics, also known as surgically-facilitated orthodontic therapy or SFOT. This relatively new process reduces your overall treatment time and is based on advanced research in bone physiology.
SFOT involves minor gum surgery to stimulate the growth of bone around your teeth, allowing them to move more quickly and effectively into their desired positions. It can be used in conjunction with fixed braces or Invisalign and is a great option for adults who want to achieve a straighter smile before a big event, or for teens who don’t have all their high school years left to wear braces.
Nightguards
A mouth guard is a removable device used to prevent sports-related injuries to the teeth and gums. Our Woodland Hills, CA dentist creates custom mouth guards that fit your teeth to reduce impact damage and minimize pain or injury.
Night time clenching or grinding of the teeth is known as bruxism. It can be very hard on the teeth, causing chipping and irregular wear patterns. It can also cause jaw pain and may contribute to obstructive sleep apnea.
Over-the-counter one-size-fits-all night guards are low cost, but are not well fitted and can be uncomfortable. Boil-and-bite night guards are made of soft plastic that is boiled then placed in your mouth to form an impression of your teeth and bite. These are better suited for people with braces or dentures, but still not the best fit for everyone.Woodland Hills Orthodontics
