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Salem, Oregon
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Different Reasons for Orthodontic Care Salem, OR

Close up of someone grimacing to expose their mildly crooked teeth whose aesthetics could be improved by orthodontic treatment.

Orthodontics is a field of dentistry that is concerned with straightening teeth and correcting misalignments with the jaw. While there can be many different reasons for orthodontic care, this goal is at the center of every treatment. Correcting these issues can reduce your risk of greater health complications later down the line.

Children and teenagers are typically the ideal candidates for orthodontic care. The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) states that children should receive an orthodontic evaluation by the age of seven. However, we here at Christensen Orthodontics pride ourselves on treating every member of the family, both children and adults. Adult orthodontics is one of the fastest growing areas of our practice.

Who Needs Orthodontic Treatment?

Orthodontic treatment can be used to fix a wide variety of problems. The most common problems we correct include:

  • Crowding issues: teeth that are too close together
  • Spacing issues: Teeth that are gapped due to their small size or a large jaw
  • Crooked teeth: Teeth that are rotated, overlapped, or in an otherwise incorrect position
  • Protrusions: Upper front teeth that jet out horizontally
  • Overbites: Upper front teeth that cover too much of the lower front teeth
  • Underbites: Lower front teeth protrude in front of the upper front teeth
  • Crossbites: Upper teeth that fit “inside” of the bottom teeth
  • Openbites: Upper and lower teeth that do not touch when biting down

If you suffer from any of the problems listed above, you may need orthodontic treatment. If your child exhibits any of these issues, it is important to seek treatment as soon as possible. Most of these problems are easier to treat while the teeth and jaws are still developing.

Diagnosing Your Orthodontic Issues

Only an orthodontist will be able to definitively determine whether or not orthodontics is appropriate. During a consultation appointment, Dr. Christensen will perform a diagnostic exam and review your medical and dental history. In some instances, this exam may include the use of powerful tools, such as digital x-rays and CBCT scans.

After we determine that you or your child qualify for orthodontic treatment, we will then take an impression of your teeth and gums. An impression, which serves as a 3D model of your mouth, is an important part of treatment planning and appliance fabrication. The type of appliance you receive depends on your circumstance.

The Benefits of Straight Teeth

Crooked teeth or a misaligned bite affect more than just the cosmetics of your smile. Many orthodontic issues can also result in secondary problems, such as:

  • Problems chewing or eating
  • Speech impediments
  • Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ/TMD)
  • Jaw clenching and teeth grinding (bruxism)
  • Premature or severe enamel wear
  • Tooth decay
  • Gum disease
  • Snoring or sleep apnea

Orthodontic treatment can alleviate many of the problems listed above. A straighter, more beautiful smile can improve your self-esteem and boost your confidence. Properly aligned teeth are also easier to clean, reducing your risk of developing tooth decay and gum disease.

Schedule a Consultation

If you would like to learn more about our orthodontic care, our team is happy to help! Call 503-967-9887 to schedule a consultation for you or your child today!