ORTHODONTIC CARE
Crooked Teeth Are More Than Cosmetic
ASSESSMENT
Assessment looks beyond straight teeth Review dental arch alignment and tooth position Distinguish dental concerns from skeletal jaw-growth influences Consider comfort, chewing, speech, wear, and jaw symptoms Illustrative image · assessment considers the bite as a whole.
ALIGNMENT AND FUNCTION
Common alignment and bite concerns can affect function Concerns to recognise
Why the distinction matters
Crowding, spacing, overbite, underbite, crossbite, and open bite
Some concerns are mainly cosmetic; others influence chewing, speech, wear, or stability
Midline differences, impacted teeth, and jaw-growth discrepancies
PERSONALISED PL ANNING
Digital records support a more personalised plan Use digital scanning and diagnostic imaging to understand the starting point Combine clinical findings with the patient’s goals and functional concerns Build an individual treatment plan rather than applying a onesize-fits-all approach Illustrative image · records help make the starting point visible.
OPTIONS AND TRADE-OFFS
Options are discussed clearly, including their trade-offs Different approaches can be considered without assuming one treatment is right for every patient.
Fixed metal braces
Ceramic braces
Clear aligner therapy
Additional approaches When appropriate, consider appliances, elastics, or growth guidance
Know more about braces
THE FULL PICTURE
Treatment conversations should cover the full picture CONVERSATION
WHAT TO UNDERSTAND
Option
What each option may address
Expectations
Risks, alternatives, and realistic expectations
Progress
Monitoring frequency and what progress looks like
Long term
How treatment supports long-term oral health and stability
AFTER ACTIVE TREATMENT
Retention is part of treatment, not an afterthought The plan continues after active orthodontic treatment. 01
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Teeth can shift
Retainers maintain
Stability needs support
Teeth can shift after active orthodontic treatment
Retainers help maintain the correction
Consistent wear and follow-up support long-term stability
COASTAL DENTAL
Coastal Dental supports informed decisions Patients receive balanced information, personalised planning, and clear guidance from assessment through retention. Visit Coastal Dental
