Orthodontics

If you have crooked, crowded, or misaligned teeth, orthodontics can restore proper alignment and encourage optimal oral health. At Melillo Dental, James Melillo, DDS, Dasny Castillo-Beltran, DDS, and the team offer orthodontic treatment with traditional braces and Invisalign®. To make an appointment, call the office in Yonkers, New York, or request an appointment online today. 

What is orthodontics?

Orthodontics refers to a dental specialty that diagnoses, treats, and prevents misaligned teeth or a malpositioned jaw. 

It uses custom oral appliances, like conventional metal braces or clear aligners, to place mild pressure on your teeth and jaw. That pressure moves your teeth into the optimal position over time, improving the aesthetic appearance of your smile. 

What types of alignment issues can orthodontics treat?

Melillo Dental uses orthodontics to treat various alignment issues, including:

• Crowding
• Crooked teeth
• Overlapping teeth
• Crossbite
• Overbite
• Underbite
• Misaligned jaw

You may also benefit from orthodontic treatment if you have visible gaps or spaces in your smile.

What are the types of orthodontics?

Melillo Dental offers several types of orthodontics, including:

Clear aligners

Clear aligners uses a series of custom-crafted plastic trays to improve the position of your teeth and jaw. The aligners fit snugly over your teeth and are nearly invisible, allowing for a discreet method of treatment.

Clear aligners provide can quicker results than traditional braces. What’s more, you remove the aligners when eating, so you can still consume your favorite foods, including nuts, seeds, and apple slices.

Traditional metal braces

Traditional metal braces use a combination of wires, rubber bands, and brackets to straighten your teeth. During treatment, your provider routinely adjusts the wires, ensuring you achieve your desired results.

Will I benefit from orthodontic treatment?

To determine if you’ll benefit from orthodontic treatment, the team at Melillo Dental conducts an oral exam, reviews your dental health history, and asks about your goals. Then, they take a series of digital X-rays to assess the position and alignment of your teeth and jaw.

After gathering the necessary information, your provider develops a custom care plan to align with your needs. To ensure a successful outcome, follow their instructions carefully and attend each checkup as scheduled.

How long does treatment with orthodontics take?

The length of time that treatment with orthodontics takes depends on the severity of your alignment issues and your commitment to your plan. Most people achieve a more balanced, symmetrical smile within 12-18 months, but it can take longer. 

To further explore orthodontics, make an appointment at Melillo Dental by calling the office or requesting one online today.