Orthodontics

Orthodontics is the area of dentistry focused on correcting the alignment of teeth and jaws. The term literally means “straight teeth” — and that’s exactly what orthodontic treatment aims to achieve.

Whether you're concerned about the appearance of your smile or you're experiencing issues with chewing, cleaning, or speech, orthodontics can make a big difference.

Why Straight Teeth Matter

1. A More Confident Smile
Crooked or crowded teeth can make people feel self-conscious. Straightening your teeth can boost your confidence in both personal and professional settings.

2. Easier to Clean
Overlapping or misaligned teeth can be tricky to brush and floss properly. Straight teeth are easier to maintain, reducing your risk of decay, gum disease, and tooth loss.

3. Better Chewing and Digestion
A properly aligned bite allows you to chew food more efficiently, helping with better digestion and overall health.

4. Clearer Speech
In some cases, alignment problems can affect how you speak. Orthodontic treatment can help resolve speech issues caused by bite or jaw alignment problems.

5. Healthier Gums
In severe bite issues (called malocclusions), the teeth can press into the gums and cause damage. For example, with a deep bite, the lower front teeth may hit the gums behind the upper teeth, leading to irritation or injury.

6. Reduced Tooth Wear
Misaligned teeth can wear down unevenly over time. Orthodontic treatment helps balance the bite and protect teeth from premature wear.

What Is Malocclusion?

Malocclusion refers to a misalignment of the teeth or jaws — also known as a "bad bite." It can affect how your teeth fit together when you bite, chew, or speak. The goal of orthodontic treatment is to correct these issues, improve function, and enhance appearance.

How Orthodontic Treatment Works

Orthodontic appliances such as braces, plates, or headgear are used to gently move teeth into better positions. These devices apply a light, constant pressure that gradually shifts the teeth through the jawbone.

When adjusted, the appliance increases pressure to encourage movement.
Some tenderness is normal, but the discomfort is usually mild and temporary.
Thanks to modern technology, today’s orthodontic treatments are more comfortable, less visible, and more effective than ever before.

Choosing the Right Option

At Integrated Dental Care, our experienced dentist will assess your bite and alignment, then recommend the most suitable treatment for your needs. Whether you're looking at traditional braces or more discreet options, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

A Common Need

Crooked teeth are more common than you might think — studies suggest that around 7 in 10 people could benefit from orthodontic treatment at some stage in their life.