There are some things you need to know about orthodontics in Phoenix. Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that specializes in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. Corrections are made by moving teeth with braces, aligners and other appliances or devices. Orthodontists are dental specialist who correct misaligned teeth and jaws. It is very important that the treatment be done properly because sometimes teeth and faces are permanently changed by orthodontic treatment. Of US dentists, only about 6% are licensed and recognized as an orthodontic specialist. A licensed orthodontic specialist is an expert at moving teeth, helping jaws develop properly and working with the patient to make sure the teeth stay in their new positions.

Orthodontics in Phoenix suggest that there are some early warning signs that your child might have a bad bite and need an early orthodontic examination. Those signs include: the early or late loss of baby teeth; difficulty chewing or biting; crowding or blocked out teeth; jaws that make sounds, biting the cheek or the roof of the mouth; teeth that do not meet at all; jaws and teeth that are out of proportion to the rest of the face; finger sucking or pacifier habits that continue past the age of six; top front teeth that protrude; top front teeth that grow behind the bottom front teeth; a weak or prominent chin; and excessive spaces between the teeth. Every child should see an orthodontist no later than age 7. By the age of 7 some of the permanent teeth have come in and some jaw growth has occurred that problems can be identified. With an early consultation the orthodontist can determine the best time for treatment to begin. Plus, early treatment can eliminate the need for drastic measures and the child may not have to endure years of embarrassment.

Many people wonder how crooked teeth get straightened with orthodontics in Phoenix. The braces move the teeth into the correct position over time by using a steady and gentle pressure. It may not seem like it, but every moment you are wearing the braces they are straightening your teeth. The two main components of the braces are the brackets placed directly on your teeth and the main arch wire that connects them. The bracket is made of specially shaped metal or ceramic that is affixed to each tooth. The arch wire is bent to reflect your ideal bite or what it should look like after treatment. In fact, the wire is threaded through the brackets and as the wire tries to return to its original shape, it applies pressure that will move your teeth. Once they are attached to your braces the rubber bands exert the force that creates the right amount of pressure to move teeth in directions that the braces alone can't do. It is very important to wear the rubber bands because your treatment will not work without the constant force of the put on your teeth.

In addition to giving you a beautiful smile and a mouth full of straight teeth there are other benefits to orthodontics in Phoenix. Completing orthodontic treatment will actually improve your health. With straighter teeth and a good bite you will be able to chew your food better, so you will have better digestion. If your teeth are not straight, your food will be only partially chewed and that is how it will arrive in your stomach. It can give you a stomach ache. Plus, it will help you avoid dental problems. If you need orthodontic treatment and do not get it, then you will have problems with your teeth because they will be hard to clean, your gums will hurt and your teeth will not wear evenly.