Orthodontics

Consider orthodontics if you  have crowded teeth, a misaligned jaw, or an abnormal bite. At her self-titled practice, Addie Chang, DMD, a family dentist, and her team offer orthodontics to children, teens, and adults. Depending on your needs, they might recommend traditional metal braces or Invisalign®. Make an appointment today by calling the office in Tukwila, Washington, or click the online booking feature.

What is orthodontics?

Orthodontics is a dental subspecialty that treats tooth and jaw misalignments. If your teeth are crowded, crooked, or unevenly spaced they’re also more difficult to clean. You’re more likely to develop cavities and gum disease, as a result. 

Orthodontics uses fixed metal wires or removable plastic mouthpieces to place mild pressure on your teeth and jaw. Over time, that pressure improves their position, transforming your smile. 

What types of issues does orthodontics treat?

At the practice of Addie Chang, DMD, the team uses orthodontics to treat various alignment issues, including:

• Crooked teeth
• Crowding
• Overlapping teeth
• Misaligned jaw
• Gaps between teeth

You might also be a candidate for orthodontics if you have an abnormal bite, like crossbite, overbite, or underbite.

What are the types of orthodontics?

At Addie Chang, DMD, the team offers several types of orthodontics, including:

Traditional braces

Traditional braces use metal archwires, brackets, and rubber bands to place mild pressure on your teeth and jaw. During treatment, you visit your dentist for regular checkups. At each visit, your provider tightens the wires and brackets, slowly but surely enhancing your smile. 

Invisalign

Invisalign straightens your teeth with a series of removable plastic mouthpieces. During treatment, you wear your aligners for 20-22 hours a day, only removing them to eat or brush your teeth. Every three weeks, you visit your dentist. 

At each checkup, your provider monitors your progress and provides you with a new set of aligners. The new set of aligners places slightly different pressure on your teeth, complimenting your treatment progress.

How long does orthodontic treatment take?

The time that orthodontic treatment takes depends on several factors, including your age, the alignment problems addressed, and your commitment to the treatment plan. Most people achieve their desired results in between 12-18 months* but it may take longer. Be patient and attend each of your checkups.

Is orthodontic treatment painful?

Orthodontic treatment is safe and typically well-tolerated, but it’s normal to experience some mild swelling and sensitivity after each checkup. Take an over-the-counter pain reliever for relief or apply an ice pack to your cheek. 

Make an orthodontics appointment at the practice of Addie Chang, DMD, today by calling the office or clicking the online booking feature.

*Individual results may vary.