Orthodontics is all about correcting your bite – the way your teeth fit together. This not only improves how your teeth look but also how they function. And when it comes to showcasing what orthodontics can really do, nothing beats seeing the before and after pictures.
Orthodontic before and after pictures provide a visual representation of the potential improvements you can expect. That’s why we’ve put together this article: to showcase the power of orthodontics through compelling before and after examples.
Understanding common orthodontic problems
Before we look at the transformations that orthodontics can bring about, let’s talk about some of the conditions orthodontists treat.
Malocclusion
Malocclusion simply means that the teeth don’t meet correctly when you bite down. Malocclusion can affect your ability to chew or speak clearly, and it can also make it harder to keep your teeth and gums clean.
Here are some common types of malocclusion:
- Crowding: Teeth are too close together.
- Spacing: Gaps exist between teeth.
- Overbite: Upper teeth overlap the lower teeth too much.
- Underbite: Lower teeth stick out beyond the upper teeth.
- Open bite: The front teeth don’t touch when biting.
- Crossbite: Upper teeth fit inside the lower teeth.
Impact on oral health and aesthetics
Malocclusion can cause a ripple effect of dental problems. Teeth that are crowded or misaligned are harder to clean, which raises your risk of cavities and gum disease. Misaligned teeth can also wear unevenly.
Many people also seek orthodontic treatment because they’re unhappy with how their misaligned teeth look. They may feel self-conscious about their smile, which can affect their self-esteem and confidence.
Orthodontic treatment options: A path to a perfect smile
If you’re not completely happy with your smile, you’re far from alone. Luckily, there are several ways to improve your tooth alignment and overall smile.
Traditional braces
Traditional braces use brackets, wires, and bands to gradually coax your teeth into the correct position. You’ll see your orthodontist regularly so they can make adjustments to keep the straightening process moving forward.
Braces can be made of metal or ceramic. Ceramic braces are less noticeable, so they may be a good choice if you want a more discreet treatment experience.
Invisalign aligners
Invisalign is a system that uses clear aligners to straighten your teeth. The aligners are custom-made to fit your mouth, and you’ll switch to a new set of aligners every week or two.
Because you can remove the aligners, you can eat, brush, and floss as you normally would.
Other orthodontic appliances
Other appliances, like expanders and retainers, can play a role in your orthodontic treatment. Expanders widen the dental arch to make more room for your teeth. Retainers help maintain the results after your teeth have been straightened.
BEFORE AND AFTER SHOWCASE: REAL PATIENT TRANSFORMATIONS
Check out these real-life orthodontic before-and-after transformations. You’ll see what a difference braces and clear aligners can make!
Children’s Orthodontic Cases
In this case, severely crowded lower teeth are straightened and aligned with two years of fixed metal braces.
- Before: Severely crowded lower teeth.
- After: Straight, aligned teeth after 2 years of fixed metal braces.
This patient’s noticeable open bite, which was affecting their speech and chewing, was improved with 18 months of Invisalign aligners.
- Before: Noticeable open bite affecting speech and chewing.
- After: Improved bite alignment with Invisalign aligners after 18 months.
Adult Orthodontic Cases
Moderate misalignment of upper front teeth were corrected with 15 months of Invisalign treatment.
- Before: Moderate misalignment of upper front teeth.
- After: Straightened teeth and improved smile aesthetics after 15 months of Invisalign.
This patient’s anterior crossbite, which was causing discomfort and uneven wear, was corrected with 22 months of ceramic and metal braces, resulting in a corrected bite and improved facial symmetry.
- Before: Anterior crossbite causing discomfort and uneven wear.
- After: Corrected bite and improved facial symmetry after 22 months of ceramic and metal braces.
The Importance of Retainers
Once your teeth are in the right position, it’s important to keep them there! Retainers are crucial for maintaining the results of orthodontic treatment.
There are different types of retainers, including fixed and removable ones. Talk to your orthodontist about which type is right for you.
Whatever you do, wear your retainer as directed, to prevent relapse.
Closing Thoughts
Orthodontic treatment can be transformative, and before and after photos are a great way to see the possibilities. If you’re wondering whether braces or aligners are right for you, the next step is to talk with an orthodontist.
Early intervention can prevent more serious problems down the road. But, even if you’re an adult, orthodontic treatment can improve your oral health and your self-esteem.
A straighter smile isn’t just about aesthetics. It can make a big difference in your overall quality of life.