Top orthodontic terms that you should be aware of

Posted by westernspring on January 5th, 2022

You have heard about orthodontics. Whether you have visited your Westchester IL orthodontist earlier or you are planning to do it now. When you meet the dental expert, you will come across plenty of terms. Some you might understand; some you will wonder what they are. If you have any questions after your first initial visit to our Westchester, IL orthodontist and would like to explore more options, our team is here to help you.

Meanwhile, you can read the following literature to get in depth knowledge about some common terms that you will come across.

1. Elastics

Elastics are an adjunctive part of an orthodontic treatment. They are small rubber bands in varying amounts of force that can be used with braces or Invisalign. We use elastics with orthodontics to correct any misaligned teeth. A good way to understand the importance of elastics is that while braces and Invisalign aligners can straighten your teeth, it is the elastics that is going to fix your bite well.

1. Invisalign

All the patients who are seeking out orthodontic treatment are often happy when they are told that they can opt for Invisalign. Invisalign is an easy method to straighten your teeth without having to worry about getting braces in your mouth. The orthodontist will give you some sets of aligners that you need to keep in your mouth for 20-22 hours and you are done. Just do what has been prescribed and you can work on it very well. Invisalign is as effective as braces.

1. TMJ Problems

Next, we are going to talk about TMJ problems. TMJ is temporomandibular joint located between your skull and spinal cord. When you have any jaw problems, you can have this TMJ disorder that will increase your pain. Many a time, this problem leads to excessive sleep disorder and you fall into the trap of obstructive sleep apnea. It is better to get yourself checked by an orthodontist before doing anything.

1. Phase 1&2

Most of the times, these treatments are given to children. When you take your child to an orthodontist at the age of 7 or 8 years, the orthodontist shall start with his or her phase 1 treatment. The phase 2 treatment will start only after the child is grown up and needs further braces or Invisalign to straighten the teeth. Talk to the orthodontist and you will know better about it.

If you feel that it is time to meet your Westchester, IL orthodontist who will take it forward from here. Let us help you with your treatments like LA Grange Park, IL braces or Invisalign. You can talk to us now.

Mat Hardy is an author of this article. To know more about La Grange Park, IL braces and Westchester, IL orthodontist so please visit my website.