Candidates for Orthodontics

Dr. Susana Moncada can recommend different orthodontic approaches to help you achieve a properly aligned smile. Candidates for orthodontics in Orlando, FL, may suffer from a variety of dental health factors that can be treated using various techniques. Dr. Moncada offers traditional orthodontics and more recent advancements, such as Invisalign® or ClearCorrect™, to customize treatment for each individual patient's needs and goals.

Traditional Braces vs. Invisalign®

Traditional braces consist of metal brackets and wires that create tension across the teeth to gradually straighten and realign your smile. Treatment with traditional orthodontics typically lasts between six months and two years, depending on the degree of misalignment that needs to be corrected.  

Correcting misaligned teeth can improve your oral health and prevent the development of more severe problems.

Invisalign® and ClearCorrect™ orthodontic systems use clear trays to gradually straighten your teeth. These treatment methods can typically be completed in less time than traditional braces, and are more discreet, comfortable, and convenient.

Candidates for Orthodontics

Dr. Moncada will evaluate your oral health to determine which orthodontic technique is best-suited for your needs. In general, either traditional or more recent methods may be used to correct moderate to severe alignment issues.

Gapped Teeth

Gapped teeth may be caused by abnormal growth of the jawbone or missing teeth. Gaps in the smile can disrupt the alignment of the surrounding teeth and increase a patient's risk for developing gum disease.

Overbite

An overbite occurs when the upper teeth close over the lower teeth. Overbites may be caused by genetics, bad oral hygiene habits, or an overdevelopment of the jaw bone. Left untreated, an overbite can cause periodontal issues and irritation, damage to the lower teeth, and painful jaw problems.

Underbite

When the lower teeth protrude beyond the front upper teeth, it is termed an underbite. This concern may be caused by the underdevelopment of the upper jaw, overdevelopment of the lower jaw, or a combination of both. Missing teeth can also cause an underbite. This condition can inhibit normal functioning and cause damage to the teeth. Patients with an underbite may also experience jaw or joint pain.

Open Bite

An open bite occurs when some teeth are unable to physically contact the opposing row of teeth. Genetics, abnormal jaw structure, or thumb-sucking may cause an open bite. This condition can make chewing difficult or painful, cause speech impairment, and may lead to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder.

Overly Crowded

When a patient does not have enough room in their jaw to accommodate all of their teeth, the condition is called teeth crowding. Overly crowded teeth can result in severely crooked teeth that are difficult to clean properly. This can lead to the accumulation of plaque, periodontal disease, and excessive decay.

Crossbite

When both the upper and lower jaws are misaligned, a crossbite results and one or more of the upper teeth bite inside of the lower teeth. This can occur on the front and either side of the mouth. A crossbite can wear down teeth unevenly, and may cause gum disease and bone deterioration.

Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment

Both traditional orthodontics and more discreet methods offer many functional and cosmetic benefits for patients who choose to undergo treatment. Correcting misaligned teeth can improve your oral health and prevent the development of more severe problems. Straight teeth are easier to properly clean when brushing and flossing, ensuring that your smile will look its best.

Schedule Your Consultation

If you are considering orthodontic treatment, please contact us today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Moncada. She can help determine which technique will help you achieve a properly aligned smile.