Crooked Teeth, Underbite, Overbite
For crooked teeth and/or a misaligned bite (an underbite or overbite), there are a variety of treatments that can help straighten teeth, including braces and retainers. The orthodontist you choose will ask questions about your health, conduct a clinical exam, take impressions of your teeth, take photos of your face and teeth, and order X-rays of the mouth and head. In some cases, a removable retainer will be all that's necessary. In other rare cases (especially when there is an extreme overbite or underbite), surgery may be necessary. In most cases, however, braces will be needed.
Will Braces or Invisalign Be Painful?
Some of the adjustments your orthodontist may make to your braces or Invisalign may make your mouth feel sore or uncomfortable. StellaLife® VEGA® Oral Care Gel will help relieve the pain. If you always experience a lot of pain after your braces are adjusted, talk to your orthodontist about it; he or she may be able to make the adjustments a bit differently.
Braces and Retainers
If braces are indeed the solution for you, the orthodontist will prescribe an appliance specific for your needs. The braces may consist of bands, wires, and other fixed or removable corrective appliances. No one method works for everyone. Braces work by applying continuous pressure over a period of time to slowly move teeth in a specific direction. As the teeth move, the bone changes shape as pressure is applied.
Newer “mini-braces,” which are much smaller than traditional braces, may be an option for some. There is another method of straightening teeth that uses removable plastic retainers that may also work when crowding of the teeth is not too severe.
There is another option known as Invisalign. Invisalign is a clear set of hard plastic aligners that are fitted for your mouth. They must be checked and replaced over the course of the first couple of months while they work at aligning your teeth into proper position. Invisalign is a preferred choice for adults and teens because they are practically invisible due to being clear. Your orthodontist will discuss the various types of braces with you and determine which might be the best option for your situation.
Directions
Adults and children over the age of 6 years: Wash hands. Apply to upper and lower gums above braces using a cotton swab or place gel inside CLEAR ALIGNERS tray including Invisalign®. Allow gel to dissolve. Do not eat or drink for 20 minutes after application. Apply 3 times per day or as directed by a dental professional. Consult your dental professional for use in children under 6 years of age. Learn more
ADDITIONAL PRODUCT: For best results add the StellaLife® VEGA® Oral Care Rinse - Shake well. Swish in the mouth for 1 minute and then apply the Gel. Learn more
Reviews
Dental Professional: "I have incorporated StellaLife Gel and Rinse as part of the maintenance after initial placement of braces. My patients report significantly less discomfort adapting to braces while their hygiene and plaque index have improved considerably. VEGA products are making a positive difference for my patients and practice." - - Dr. Yan Kalika, Orthodontist, CA Learn more
DISCLOSURE
This information is intended to promote understanding of and knowledge about general oral health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.