Orthodontist in Federal Way

Orthodontists play a crucial role in maintaining dental health. By addressing issues such as crowded teeth, gaps, and misaligned jaws, they help prevent more serious problems down the line. Properly aligned teeth are easier to clean, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease. Additionally, a well-aligned bite ensures even distribution of force when chewing, preventing wear and tear on the teeth.

Orthodontic treatment is essential for addressing various dental and facial issues that can affect your health and confidence. Here are some common reasons why you might need to see an orthodontist:

• Crowded Teeth: When there isn’t enough space in your mouth, your teeth can overlap or twist. This makes it difficult to clean your teeth properly, leading to a higher risk of cavities and gum disease.
• Overbite: An overbite occurs when the upper front teeth overlap significantly over the lower front teeth. This can cause excessive wear on your teeth, jaw pain, and even speech difficulties.
• Underbite: An underbite is when the lower front teeth extend beyond the upper front teeth. This can interfere with normal chewing and speaking and can lead to jaw pain and uneven wear on your teeth.
• Crossbite: A crossbite happens when some of the upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth rather than outside. This can cause tooth wear, gum disease, and bone loss.
• Gaps Between Teeth: Spaces or gaps between teeth can result from missing teeth or teeth that don’t fill up the space in the jaw. These gaps can lead to gum problems and affect the overall aesthetics of your smile.
• Misaligned Jaw: When the jaws do not align properly, it can cause pain, difficulty chewing, and even issues with speech. Orthodontic treatment can help align the jaws correctly, improving function and appearance.

• Metal Braces: These traditional braces are made of high-grade stainless steel and are the most common type. They are highly effective in correcting a wide range of dental alignment issues.
• Ceramic Braces: These braces are similar to metal braces but are made of clear or tooth-colored materials, making them less noticeable.
• Self-Ligating Braces: These braces use a specialized clip instead of elastic bands to hold the wire in place, which can reduce friction and potentially shorten treatment time.
• Lingual Braces: Placed on the backside of your teeth, lingual braces are hidden from view, offering a discreet option for those who prefer their braces to be invisible.

Invisalign is a modern orthodontic treatment that uses a series of clear, removable aligners to straighten teeth. Suitable for both teens and adults, Invisalign offers a comfortable and convenient alternative to traditional braces. The benefits of Invisalign include:

• Clear Aligners: Made from transparent material, making them virtually invisible.
• Removable: You can easily take them out for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing, allowing for better oral hygiene and dietary freedom.
• Comfortable: The smooth, plastic aligners eliminate the discomfort and irritation often associated with metal brackets and wires.
• Effective: Invisalign can correct a wide range of orthodontic issues, from mild to complex cases.

Early orthodontic evaluations are crucial in identifying potential issues before they become more severe. By assessing children at a young age, we can recommend treatments that may simplify or even prevent future orthodontic work. This proactive approach ensures optimal dental health as they grow.

Orthodontic treatment isn’t just for kids and teens. Many adults seek orthodontic care to improve their smiles and correct bite issues. We offer a range of discrete and effective options, including clear aligners and lingual braces, to accommodate the unique needs of adult patients.