March 8, 2023
Are you experiencing discomfort or pain due to impacted teeth? Do you feel self-conscious about your smile because of misaligned teeth? If yes, then orthodontic treatment might be the solution for you. Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that deals with correcting malocclusions (misalignment) and jaw irregularities. But the question is, can orthodontics treat impacted teeth? In this blog post, we will explore how orthodontics can effectively address impacted teeth and give you back your confident smile!
What are Impacted Teeth?
Impacted teeth are teeth that have not erupted into the mouth or have only partially erupted. They are usually caused by crowding of the teeth, which prevents them from erupting properly. Impacted teeth can be painful and can cause problems with chewing and speaking. They can also lead to gum disease and tooth decay. Treatment for impacted teeth depends on the severity of the problem. In some cases, orthodontic treatment can help move the impacted tooth into place. In other cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the tooth or move it into place.
The Causes of Impacted Teeth
There are several reasons why teeth can become impacted. The most common cause is when baby teeth don’t fall out on their own and the permanent teeth come in behind them. This can happen if the baby tooth is lodged in the gum or if the permanent tooth doesn’t have enough room to come in. Impacted teeth can also be caused by extra teeth that crowd the mouth, leaving no room for other teeth to erupt. Mouth trauma, such as a hard hit to the face, can also cause impacted teeth. Genetics can play a role in impacted teeth as well. If your parents or siblings had impacted teeth, you may be more likely to have them too.
Different Types of Orthodontic Treatment for Impacted Teeth
There are a few different types of orthodontic treatment that can be used to treat impacted teeth. The type of treatment that is best for you will depend on the severity of your case and the location of the impacted tooth.
One type of treatment is called “extraction.” This is when the orthodontist removes the tooth that is blocking another tooth from coming in. This can be done surgically or non-surgically, depending on the situation.
Another type of treatment is called “orthodontic appliances.” This is when metal brackets and wires are used to move the teeth into their proper position. This type of treatment can take longer than extraction, but it is often less invasive.
The last type of treatment is called “surgery.” This is a more extreme measure that is usually only necessary in severe cases. Surgery involves making an incision in the gum line and then moving the impacted tooth into its proper position.
How to Choose the Right Orthodontist for You
There are a few things you should take into account when choosing an orthodontist. First, you need to make sure they’re qualified. All orthodontists must have completed dental school and a two- or three-year residency in orthodontics. You can check their credentials by asking to see their certificates or contacting the American Association of Orthodontists.
Second, you should consider what type of treatment you want. Some orthodontists only offer traditional braces, while others also provide clear aligners (such as Invisalign) or other newer treatments. Make sure the orthodontist offers the type of treatment you’re interested in.
Finally, you should ask about the cost of treatment and whether the orthodontist accepts your insurance. Treatment can be expensive, so it’s important to know what your financial options are before you start.
Source: Impacted teeth traction in orthodontics
Conclusion
In conclusion, orthodontics can be an effective treatment for impacted teeth. With the right orthodontic care and routine dental hygiene, you can improve your oral health and achieve a straighter smile in no time. If you have any concerns regarding your impacted teeth or if you would like to discuss other available treatments, it is best to consult with a qualified orthodontist as soon as possible.
FAQs
What are impacted teeth, and how can orthodontic treatment help?
Impacted teeth are teeth that are unable to emerge fully from the gum line and into their correct position in the mouth. Orthodontic treatment can help by using braces or other orthodontic appliances to gradually move the impacted tooth into its proper position.
Is orthodontic treatment the only option for treating impacted teeth?
Orthodontic treatment is one option for treating impacted teeth, but it may not be the only option in all cases. Depending on the severity of the impaction and the position of the impacted tooth, a dental extraction may be necessary. In some cases, a combination of orthodontic treatment and dental surgery may be needed to fully correct the problem.