Orthodontics

A straight, balanced smile can enhance your appearance and dental function. At Select Dental & Orthodontics in Torrance, California, the highly trained team of orthodontic specialists offers braces, clear aligners, retention devices, and other custom-made appliances to keep your teeth healthy and beautiful. Call or schedule an appointment online today to learn more about orthodontics.

What is orthodontics?

Orthodontics is a dental specialty that provides care for tooth and bite alignment abnormalities. Orthodontic devices place gradual pressure on your teeth and jaws to shift them into the ideal alignment. 

Straight teeth are easier to clean than misaligned teeth, which reduces your risk of tooth decay (cavities) and gum disease. Aligned jaws also distribute pressure evenly throughout your bite to relieve tension in your jaw muscles and temporomandibular joints (TMJ).

While many people associate orthodontics with teenagers, more than one third of patients are over age 18.

What are the different types of orthodontics?

Select Dental & Orthodontics offers several different types of orthodontics, including:

Braces

Braces use metal or ceramic brackets and wires to shift your teeth into the correct position. They are fixed devices that bond to the surface of your teeth. Braces are ideal for most types of orthodontic concerns, including crooked teeth, overbites, underbites, and even open bites. They can address more severe orthodontic concerns than clear aligners.

Invisalign®

Invisalign is a system of clear aligners that corrects orthodontic concerns similarly to braces but without the visibility. Clear aligners are transparent and removable, so you can eat, drink, and smile with ease. Invisalign is an especially attractive option for adults who want straighter teeth without the hassle of traditional braces.

Children’s orthodontics

Children’s orthodontics address early concerns, such as malocclusions and overcrowding. Braces, headgear, and retainers are common treatments the team may recommend for children.

Retainers

Retention devices hold your teeth in position after orthodontic treatment. The team offers removable retainers and fixed appliances to prevent your teeth from shifting. 

After a comprehensive evaluation that may include digital X-rays and cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans, the team can create your custom-designed orthodontic treatment plan.

When do I need orthodontics?

Orthodontics can address a wide range of functional and cosmetic concerns, including:

• Crooked teeth
• Overbite
• Underbite
• Open bite
• Crossbite
• Gapped teeth
• Overcrowding

The team may recommend multiple orthodontic devices to address various orthodontic concerns, such as crooked teeth and an overbite. After completing treatment with braces or Invisalign, the team may fit you for a custom-made retainer.

Call Select Dental & Orthodontics today or schedule an appointment online to learn more about orthodontics.