Do I Need Braces if Just One Tooth is Out of Place?

Some patients visit our office because of one tooth that is out of place. For the most part, they are satisfied with their smile and simply wish to resolve one tooth. These patients wonder whether they need braces.

In most cases, Dr. Gladwell suggests Invisalign treatment. Invisalign is more discreet and comfortable than traditional braces. It also takes less time to complete, especially if only one tooth is out of line. If you do not need to correct your entire bite, you may be able to complete Invisalign treatment in only six weeks. Sometimes, Dr. Gladwell may recommend a retainer rather than Invisalign to correct one tooth that is out of place.

While one out of place tooth may not seem like a big deal, know that an isolated tooth can draw attention away from your other facial features and make your smile look disproportionate. It can also make you look younger and less mature than you are. In addition, it can trap bacteria and make it a challenge for you to clean your teeth.

Fortunately, correcting one tooth that is out of place can be an easy process that can boost your confidence and overall oral health. Regardless of whether you’ll need to wear Invisalign or a retainer, it will be well worth your time and money.

Things to Know About Braces

Braces do more than just beautify your smile.
While braces can help you achieve a more attractive smile, they may also be essential to your health. This is because crooked teeth, overbites, crossbites, and other malocclusions can lead to a variety of oral health problems like tooth decay, jaw pain, and gum disease. They may also increase your risk of respiratory issues as well as heart disease and stroke. In addition, braces can resolve speech impediments and problems with chewing.

Braces are worth the cost.
There’s no denying that braces come with a hefty price tag. The results they can produce, however, are priceless. Not only can Invisalign or traditional metal braces improve your appearance, they can do wonders for your health. Fortunately, many orthodontists including Dr. Gladwell accept dental insurance and offer flexible financing options to make your orthodontic treatment as affordable as possible.

Braces can prevent injuries.
Believe it or not, braces may be the key to reducing your risk of serious injuries that lead to broken or cracked teeth. Protruding upper teeth are particularly vulnerable during accidents related to car accidents, sport games and practices, and accidental falls. Since braces can straighten your teeth, they may reduce the risk of injury from these types of accidents. Our Cary, NC dentist friend, Dr. Leo Haydt has reported many more injuries with kids learning from home and horsing around the house. Don’t let these injuries cause long term problems.

Brushing teeth with braces is extremely important.
It can be difficult to brush teeth with traditional metal braces. Doing so, however, can prevent plaque buildup and cavities. To clean them properly, place your brush at a 45 degree angle on the gum line and apply gentle pressure as you move your toothbrush in a circulation motion for about 10 seconds. Tilt the brush as necessary so that you can reach the inside of your smaller teeth. If you opt for Invisalign, you’ll be able to remove your aligners and brush your teeth as you normally would.

Schedule a Consultation at Gladwell Orthodontics

Do you have one tooth that’s out of place? If so, we encourage you to contact our orthodontic office at 919-453-6325 to schedule a complimentary consultation and find out the right treatment option you.