Orthodontics in Metairie, LA

Orthodontics is a specialty of dentistry that involves diagnosing, preventing, and treating teeth misalignments and jaw irregularities. At Raul Ramirez DDS, our Metairie orthodontists use corrective appliances such as braces and retainers, to straighten teeth and align jaws so that patients can achieve a healthy bite. Some orthodontic issues are hereditary, while others occur due to thumb-sucking or an injury to the mouth.

Orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age, and adults often undergo orthodontic treatment to improve the appearance of their smile and boost self-confidence. A beautiful smile can help people feel more confident about their appearance and make a memorable impression in social and professional situations.

Common Orthodontic Problems

• A malocclusion, or a misaligned bite, is one of the most common orthodontic problems that orthodontists treat. Malocclusions affect how the upper and lower teeth fit together when the mouth is closed, causing problems with biting, chewing, speech, and breathing. There are several common causes of malocclusions, including the overcrowding of the teeth, missing or extra teeth, congenital disabilities such as cleft palate, and habits such as thumb sucking or tongue thrusting.
• An overbite is another type of problem treated by an orthodontist. An overbite is when one’s upper front teeth protrude past the front teeth on the lower arch when closing the mouth. This can cause problems with eating and speaking and sometimes interfere with normal jaw growth. This condition can be corrected with orthodontic treatment to correct the alignment of the teeth and jaws.
• Crowded teeth are another common condition that can be treated with orthodontic correction. Crowded teeth result from a lack of space in the mouth to accommodate the size of the teeth. This can be caused by small teeth or an overgrowth of the jaw bones. Braces or Invisalign can help correct crowded teeth by removing some space between the teeth so that they fit more comfortably together.

The Advantages of Orthodontics Treatment

Orthodontic treatment corrects various issues, including crowding, spacing, and crooked teeth. Braces and aligners can also improve self-confidence by making their smile even more beautiful. The benefits of orthodontic treatment often extend well beyond having a beautiful smile. Straighter teeth are easier to keep clean, which can reduce the likelihood of cavities and gum disease. Aside from that, having healthier teeth and gums reduces your risk for other health issues such as heart disease and diabetes. Other benefits include improved chewing ability and speaking ability, as well as better overall oral health. All of these factors contribute to a better quality of life.

If you need orthodontic treatment, visit Raul Ramirez DDS at 2816 Lake Villa Dr, Metairie, LA 70002, or call (504) 885-3255. An orthodontist can provide a comprehensive treatment plan to help straighten teeth and improve oral health.