A wide range of oral issues can affect the health, appearance, and function of your teeth. Crooked, overlapped, and twisted teeth, as well as gaps between teeth, can become painful and make it hard to chew and eat. For a properly aligned bite and straight teeth, you need orthodontic treatment services from a reliable dental provider.
At Dental Care of Rosewood, we provide quality orthodontics for children and adults. Our highly-skilled orthodontists have the necessary education and training to produce exceptional results. Call us today at 803-680-9080 or visit our clinic at 2811 Rosewood Dr., Suite B, Columbia, SC 29205 to learn more about our orthodontic treatments.
What Is Orthodontics?
Orthodontics is its own branch of dentistry, focusing on the diagnosis and treatment of malocclusion or “bad bites.” Our orthodontic treatments help align the teeth, giving patients straighter smiles and reducing the risk of cavities, gum disease, erosion, tooth decay, and other oral health issues.
Types of Orthodontic Treatments
Dental Braces
Braces are the most common type of orthodontic treatment. Dental braces use brackets, bands, and wires to gradually shift misaligned and crooked teeth back into place. We offer several different types of braces, including metal and ceramic, and can recommend the best ones for your situation.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners, such as those from the well-known brand Invisalign®, are alternatives to braces that are especially popular among adult patients. Orthodontic aligners have custom trays that shift the teeth back into place over time.
Retainers
Patients use retainers after completing orthodontic treatment with braces or clear aligners. Retainers help ensure that the teeth don’t shift out of place following treatment. The time span in which retainers are necessary varies by patient.
Palate Expanders
Palate expanders help treat the teeth and jaws of children at a young age. While the facial bones are still developing, palate expanders widen upper jaws and can reduce or eliminate the need for tooth extractions down the road.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Orthodontics
Advantages
Orthodontic treatments are beneficial for numerous cosmetic, functional, and health reasons. These advantages include the following:
- A straighter, more confident smile
- Straight teeth allow for more comfortable chewing, eating, and speaking
- Aligned teeth are easier to clean, leading to better oral health
- Treatment can ease the pain caused by improper bites
- A properly aligned bite reduces the risk of oral health problems
Disadvantages
There are very few disadvantages of orthodontic treatments, and the main one is that patients must closely follow treatment guidelines. This can involve abstaining from certain foods and regularly cleaning and maintaining fixed or removable treatment equipment.
Orthodontics Near West Columbia, SC
Dental Care of Rosewood is conveniently located on Rosewood Drive in Columbia, a short drive from West Columbia, Cayce, Forest Acres, and Springdale. Patients from across the Midlands visit our office for orthodontic evaluations, clear aligner therapy, and ongoing treatment.
Braces vs. Clear Aligners: Which Is Right for You?
Choosing between traditional braces and clear aligners depends on the complexity of your alignment issue, your lifestyle, and your budget. Here is a general comparison:
Traditional braces use metal brackets and wires to move teeth into alignment. They are effective for a wide range of cases, including complex bite issues. Treatment typically lasts 12 to 36 months and requires periodic office visits for adjustments.
Clear aligners use a series of custom trays to gradually shift teeth. They are removable, nearly invisible, and do not require dietary restrictions. Aligners work best for mild to moderate alignment concerns. Treatment often takes 6 to 18 months. Learn more about clear aligner therapy in Columbia, SC.
Your orthodontist at Dental Care of Rosewood can recommend the best option based on your specific needs during a consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Orthodontics
What age is best to start orthodontic treatment?
Children can benefit from an initial orthodontic evaluation around age 7, when permanent teeth begin to emerge. However, orthodontic treatment is effective at any age. Many adults seek clear aligner therapy or braces to improve alignment later in life.
How much do braces or clear aligners cost in Columbia, SC?
The cost of orthodontic treatment varies depending on the type of appliance, the complexity of the case, and the duration of treatment. Many dental insurance plans provide partial coverage for orthodontics. Dental Care of Rosewood offers flexible payment plans to help manage the cost.
How long does orthodontic treatment take?
Treatment time depends on the severity of the alignment issue. Minor cases may be resolved in as few as six months, while more complex cases may require two to three years. Your orthodontist will provide a treatment timeline estimate during your initial consultation.
Do braces hurt?
Some discomfort is normal after adjustments, but it typically subsides within a few days. Clear aligners may cause mild pressure when switching to a new tray, which is a sign that the aligners are working.
Contact Dental Care of Rosewood Today
If you’re struggling with a misaligned bite or crooked teeth, orthodontics is the solution for you. Contact Dental Care of Rosewood at 803-680-9080 to start a unique and comprehensive treatment plan today.