What are Orthodontic Services?

Orthodontic services are crucial because they can enhance your oral health by correcting dental irregularities. These services improve your smile appearance and your overall dental function. If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, keep reading our guide because it will provide you with everything you need to know, from the types of services offered to the ideal time for treatment.

Orthodontic Services Meaning

Orthodontic treatment services involve specialized dental care. These services diagnose, prevent, and correct dental issues related to teeth alignment, bite irregularities, and jaw positioning. The goal to focus on is to improve dental function, enhance aesthetics, and prevent long-term oral health issues. Many people will think of braces when they hear orthodontics, but it includes a variety of services.

What is Considered Orthodontic Services?

Orthodontic services include a diverse range of treatments. Here are some of the most common services an orthodontist provides:

Braces

Braces are traditional metal or ceramic devices used to straighten teeth by applying constant pressure over time. They gradually shift teeth into their correct positions. Braces are effective for dental issues like crowded teeth, overbites, and underbites.

Clear Aligners

These removable trays, such as Invisalign in Minnesota, gently move your teeth into alignment over time. Ideal for treating mild to moderate misalignment, they are discreet alternatives to traditional braces. Their flexible nature allows you to remove them for eating and brushing.

Retainers

You can wear retainers after braces to maintain the position of your teeth. They prevent your teeth from going back to their original places and ensure the long-term success of your treatment. You have the option to use fixed or removable retainers.

Jaw Aligners (Splints)

They can correct jaw positioning issues, such as misaligned bites. They can also guide your jaw into its proper alignment, addressing issues like temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, overbites, or underbites.

Palatal Expanders

They widen your upper jaw to create more space in the mouth, helping to correct overcrowding and crossbites. They are often used in children to make room for adult teeth before the jaw fully develops.

Headgear

This orthodontic appliance affects the growth of your jaw and corrects severe bite problems. It applies external pressure to guide your teeth and jaw into proper alignment. This appliance is often used for more complex orthodontic cases, especially in younger patients.

Orthodontic Services Examples

Orthodontic treatment services can treat various dental problems. Here are some common orthodontic issues and the services that address them:

• Crowded Teeth: You can use braces or clear aligners to straighten teeth and create proper spacing.
• Overbite/Underbite: You can use braces, clear aligners, or headgear to correct your improper bites.
• Crossbite: Palatal expanders or braces can take care of this issue, align your bite, and correct your jaw positioning.
• Gaps Between Teeth: Braces or clear aligners can help you by closing the gaps between your teeth.
• Jaw Misalignment: You can use jaw aligners or surgical options for severe cases.

Who Benefits from Orthodontics?

Orthodontic treatment is beneficial for people of all ages who experience misalignment issues. Ideal candidates for orthodontic services include:

• Children (7-12) who suffer from crowding, crossbites, or overbites. They can benefit from early treatments that guide proper teeth and jaw development.
• Teens (13-18) who have crooked teeth, gaps, or bite problems. They often require braces or clear aligners to correct these issues as their permanent teeth settle.
• Adults (19 and older) who experience long-standing misalignment, jaw pain, or gaps between teeth. They can seek orthodontic treatment to improve function and aesthetics.

Are Orthodontics Covered by Insurance?

Orthodontics is medically necessary when your dental issues like severe misalignment, overbites, or jaw problems impact essential functions such as chewing, speaking, or breathing. In these cases, you become qualified in terms of insurance. Orthodontic services insurance coverage includes:

• Braces are usually covered for children under 18. The coverage ranges from 50% to 80%, depending on your plan.
• Clear aligners are similar to braces. The coverage is typically 50% to 80% for children and sometimes for adults.
• Retainers are usually covered with similar coverage percentages.
• Jaw aligners/splints usually have around 50% coverage.
• Palatal expanders are covered for younger patients. The coverage is typically 50% to 70%.
• Headgear is covered with about 50% to 70% coverage.

Pros and Cons of Orthodontic Treatment Services

Orthodontic treatments have both benefits and drawbacks. Here’s a quick look:

Pros

• Improved dental function and bite alignment
• Enhanced smile aesthetics
• Long-term oral health benefits by preventing future dental issues

Cons

• Treatment can be time-consuming, often lasting 12 to 36 months
• Some discomfort or soreness, especially with braces
• Costs can be high, even with insurance coverage

When to Start Orthodontic Treatment?

For adults, orthodontic treatment should start when their teeth misalignment causes functional problems or aesthetic concerns. Signs that you might need treatment include:

• Difficulty chewing or biting food
• Speech issues due to misaligned teeth
• Jaw pain or discomfort
• Self-consciousness about your smile

When Should I Take My Child to the Orthodontist?

Children should first see an orthodontist around age 7. Early evaluation can help dentists and parents detect potential issues, such as crowding or bite problems. Watch for these signs that your child may need to see an orthodontist:

• Crowded teeth or overlapping teeth
• Difficulty chewing food or biting properly
• Jaw or teeth that stick out noticeably
• Persistent mouth breathing or thumb-sucking habits

Orthodontic Services Near Me in Minnesota

If you’re in Minnesota, Long Lake Family Dentistry is here to help. We provide personalized, top-notch orthodontic services like Invisalign to cater to your unique needs. Our experienced dentists, Dr. Jalali and Dr. Lee are leading providers of Invisalign Platinum Plus. Ready to improve your smile? Call us at (651) 633-1311 or schedule a consultation online today and get started with Invisalign!

Conclusion

Orthodontic services offer a path to a healthier, more beautiful smile. Whether you’re dealing with crooked teeth, a bad bite, or jaw alignment issues, the right treatment can make all the difference. At Long Lake Family Dentistry, we’re committed to providing top-quality orthodontic care for patients of all ages. Contact us today to learn more and start your journey to a better smile.

FAQs

Does orthodontic insurance cover braces?

Yes, most plans cover braces for children, with 50% to 80% coverage. Some plans may also cover adult braces.

Does orthodontic insurance cover retainers?

Yes, retainers are usually covered as part of the overall orthodontic treatment, typically at the same percentage as braces.

When is orthodontics medically necessary?

Orthodontics is considered medically necessary when misalignment affects normal functions like chewing, speaking, or breathing.