It is National Healthcare Decisions Day on Sunday. One of the most important healthcare decisions you can make is to have orthodontic treatment. The correct dental alignment resulting from orthodontic care is important for general oral health, improved bite, ease of speaking, proper jaw movement and overall self-esteem. Orthodontics is about so much more than a straight smile.

Orthodontic treatment is primarily used to correct a “bad bite” (malocclusion) – usually caused by overcrowding in the mouth and crooked teeth. In some cases, the upper and lower jaws may be misaligned resulting in an uneven bite, regardless of the straightness of the teeth. Protruding, crowded or irregularly spaced teeth and jaw problems may be inherited. Thumb-sucking, losing teeth prematurely and accidents also can lead to these conditions. Correcting the problems with braces or Invisalign not only creates a great smile, but will also result in a healthier mouth. This is because crooked and crowded teeth make cleaning the mouth difficult, allowing bacteria to breed in the crevices. Poor oral hygiene can lead to bad breath, tooth decay, gum disease and possibly tooth loss. An improper bite interferes with chewing and speaking which can cause abnormal wear to tooth enamel as well as exerting unnecessary stress on the jaw joints. Orthodontics can help avoid all of this by moving your teeth gradually into the natural positions they are meant to be in.

Misaligned or overcrowded teeth can also create speech problems, easily rectified when the teeth are moved into the correct position through orthodontic treatment. Straight smiles and a more comfortable speaking position result in greater self-confidence, which is better for general mental health and wellbeing.

You are never too old for orthodontics: Instead of getting dentures, why not visit Dr. Roos for a complimentary oral evaluation to see if braces/Invisalign will correct your dental misalignment? Old school treatment replaced any problem teeth with dentures. Orthodontics has however changed all of this and it is often likely that you won’t have to lose your original teeth to get your smile back!

Or too young! The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children have their first orthodontic evaluation at the age seven. At this stage, enough permanent teeth have arrived for Dr. Roos to determine a specific course of treatment and to discover any potential problems. Early evaluation can sometimes signal the need for early treatment as some orthodontic problems are easier to correct while the jaw is still growing. Usually though, we monitor these younger patients (free of charge) for a couple of years before treatment begins.

If you are mindful about your family’s health, then dental health should rank up there among the priorities.

At Roos Orthodontics we offer several different options and treatment plans including regular braces, Invisalign and Propel. We provide a comprehensive and complimentary examination, including x-rays, along with a suggested tailormade treatment plan for YOU. Our office is also happy to discuss payment options at this appointment too. Additionally, we offer family discounts.

Our patient portfolio ranges in age from 7 to 70 so you know that whatever the issues you face with your oral care, we have the experience to manage your treatment in the most effective way. Starting orthodontic treatment is one of the most important healthcare decisions you can make, so call us today to schedule that first appointment and discover how we can help you straighten your smile and so much more!