Orthodontics

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Orthodontics focuses on diagnosing, treating, and preventing irregular bites and misalignments of the jaw and facial region. Pariana Tung, DDS, MSc, PhD, at Signature Smiles Dentistry in Fairfax County and Falls Church, Virginia, offers comprehensive orthodontic treatments, including Invisalign® clear aligners and 6 Month Smiles®. If you or a family member is concerned about crookedness, bite alignment, or other aspects of their teeth’s appearance, contact the office today to schedule an appointment. Call or use this website to book your visit online. 

Orthodontics QA

Who benefits from orthodontics?

Almost anyone of any age can benefit from orthodontic treatment. While it’s traditionally associated with children and teenagers, 1 in 4 orthodontic patients are now adults.

Dr. Tung is specially trained to correct bite problems (malocclusions), restore oral health, improve tooth functionality, and improve your smile’s appearance.

What dental problems can orthodontics treat?

Orthodontics addresses many dental issues and realigns teeth to improve your bite and smile.

Common issues treated by orthodontists include:

Crowding

Crowding is insufficient space within the jaw, causing displaced, rotated, or misaligned teeth.

Overbite

An overbite is a protrusion of the upper jaw relative to the lower jaw, giving a “toothy” appearance and a receded chin.

Underbite

An underbite causes the lower jaw to protrude relative to the upper jaw, causing an overly prominent chin.

Crossbite

You have a crossbite if your teeth don’t align correctly when your mouth is closed. It can affect the normal wear-and-tear of your teeth and the appearance of your smile.

Orthodontics can also help with significant gaps between teeth and general crookedness.

What are common orthodontic treatments?

Dr. Tung offers various orthodontic techniques to realign teeth and rejuvenate smiles.

Depending on the individual’s needs and assessment, orthodontists will use different treatments, including:

  • Dental braces
  • Headgear
  • Retainers
  • Palate expanders
  • Tooth movers, and faceguards

Dr. Tung is also an official provider of Invisalign® and  6 Month Smiles®. Invisalign is a set of clear plastic aligners that fit over your teeth and coax them into proper alignment. You change aligners every week or two as your smile changes. They’re removable for meals and hygiene.

For adults who want to reform their smile without the hassle of braces, 6 Month Smiles is a possible solution. This treatment uses shape-memory wires that are nearly invisible while shifting your teeth into a more aligned and attractive position.

Why is early orthodontic treatment necessary?

While adults can benefit from orthodontic care, seeking treatment early can prevent potential dental problems and avoid the need for costly restorative procedures.

Dr. Tung recommends promptly addressing bite problems and irregularities to help optimize your child’s speech, chewing ability, and facial symmetry. Additionally, severe malocclusions can contribute to various dental and physical conditions like TMJ, periodontal disease, and tooth decay.

Consult Dr. Tung at Signature Smiles Dentistry to have your smile evaluated for orthodontic treatment. Call today or use this website to book your appointment online.