If you’ve ever experienced the discomfort of an impacted tooth, you know it can make even simple tasks like eating and speaking a challenge. But did you know that orthodontics can play a significant role in treating impacted teeth? Indeed, from diagnostic imaging to surgical interventions, there’s a lot that an orthodontist can offer to remedy this dental dilemma. In this blog, we’re looking further into the world of orthodontics and how it can help you with impacted teeth.
The Role of Diagnostic Imaging: Identifying Impacted Teeth Early
Early diagnosis is the cornerstone of effective treatment for impacted teeth. Through advanced diagnostic imaging techniques like X-rays and CT scans, orthodontists can spot impacted teeth that are still in their developmental stage. This enables them to map out a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. The earlier the impacted teeth are identified, the better the chances of treating them without needing surgical intervention. That’s why routine dental check-ups, which often include imaging, are essential for anyone, especially kids and teenagers whose teeth and jaws are still developing.
Braces & Aligners: Guiding Teeth into Proper Position
Braces and aligners are the stars of the orthodontic world for a good reason—they’re incredibly effective at guiding teeth into their proper position. When it comes to impacted teeth, orthodontic devices like braces can apply gentle, consistent pressure to help guide the tooth into its proper place in the jaw. If the tooth is partially erupted, an orthodontic attachment called an “exposure and bond” can be connected to it. This attachment works in concert with braces or aligners to coax the tooth out of its impacted position. The process may take several months, but the results are well worth the wait!
Surgical Orthodontics: When is Surgery Necessary for Impacted Teeth?
While braces and aligners do wonders, there are instances where they alone can’t solve the problem. This is where surgical orthodontics comes into play. For severely impacted teeth that are lodged deeply within the jawbone or have a complicated orientation, surgical intervention is often the most effective approach. An oral surgeon usually performs a procedure to expose the impacted tooth, and the surgery is usually performed under local anesthesia.
Retainers & Post-Treatment: Maintaining the New Position of Formerly Impacted Teeth
So, your impacted tooth has finally been brought into alignment—what next? Maintenance is the key. Once your teeth have moved into their proper position, retainers ensure they stay there. A retainer holds your teeth in place and prevents them from shifting back to their former positions. This is a crucial phase in treatment and should not be skipped. Like your trusty sidekick, a retainer will help you maintain that sparkling smile for years to come!
Contact Our Clinic At Live Life Smiling
Whether it’s diagnostic imaging for early identification, braces or aligners for gradual realignment or surgical intervention for severe cases, orthodontics offers a wide array of treatment options for impacted teeth. If you’d like to discuss treatment options for impacted teeth, contact our clinic at Live Life Smiling. Our orthodontists in Newcastle are committed to helping you attain the smile you deserve. Schedule a consultation with us today and start your journey towards a happier, healthier smile!
