As one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States, residents of Bend, Oregon are no stranger to having access to state-of-the-art medical care. And one of the most important aspects of good health is dental care, particularly orthodontics. These experts work to help straighten teeth, correct bite alignment, and maintain overall dental health.
In a recent interview, Bend’s leading orthodontist, Dr. Michael Rhodes, shared his insight on the role and benefits of orthodontic treatment as it relates to overall health. Dr. Rhodes is a graduate of the Baylor University College of Dentistry, and he has been practicing for over 20 years. Here’s what he had to say.
Dr. Rhodes Explains the Role of an Orthodontist
According to Dr. Rhodes, an orthodontist is someone who specializes in straightening teeth and jaw alignment. This means they have a deep understanding of bite problems and how to correct them. He explained, “Many people associate orthodontics mainly with a nice straight smile, but the truth is that it goes much further than that. Orthodontic treatment can help reduce the incidence of cavities and dental issues, as well as improve overall health.”
How Orthodontics Affects Overall Health
Dr. Rhodes points to studies showing that poorly aligned teeth and bite issues are often associated with other health conditions. “There are a number of ways that orthodontic treatment can help improve overall health,” said Dr. Rhodes. “For example, poorly aligned teeth or an improper bite can lead to an increase in cavities, gum disease, and cracked teeth.” Orthodontic treatment can also help to manage symptoms of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder and obstructive sleep apnea.
Orthodontic Treatment Options
When it comes to diagnosing and treating orthodontic issues, Dr. Rhodes says there are a wide range of treatment options available. Traditional braces are still the most popular choice, and they can be customized with different brackets and colors. Invisalign is another popular option that uses clear plastic aligners to straighten teeth. Additionally, some people may benefit from using headgear or retainers to correct bite alignment.
What to Expect from Orthodontic Treatment
For those considering orthodontic treatment, Dr. Rhodes said it’s important for them to know what to expect. “The first step is to schedule an appointment with an orthodontist for an evaluation,” he explained. “The orthodontist will conduct a thorough examination of the patient’s teeth and mouth, and then discuss treatment options and what to expect.” Treatment length can vary depending on the individual, but Dr. Rhodes says that most people will start to see results within a few months.
Maintaining Your Overall Health
According to Dr. Rhodes, having regular dental visits and practicing good dental hygiene is crucial for maintaining overall health. “Regular visits to an orthodontist will help identify any orthodontic issues early on,” he said. “And even after treatment, it’s important to practice good dental hygiene and keep up with regular check-ups.”
So for everyone in Bend looking to maintain overall health, a visit to an orthodontist is a great place to start. Dr. Rhodes suggests scheduling an appointment to have an assessment done and to discuss any treatment options that might be needed.