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What Is Orthodontics?
 Orthodontics is
not just about straighter teeth. It also can improve your facial
balance! Dr. Hickling is skilled in the design, application and
control of corrective appliances, such as braces, to give you the
smile that you always wanted.
Most people associate orthodontics with the application of
braces to correct crooked teeth in children and teens. Dr. Hickling
treats a wide variety of conditions in people of all ages - from
overbites to underbites. Malocclusions, also known as "bad bites",
are usually inherited or acquired. Acquired malocclusions are
caused by:
1. Trauma (including delayed weaning from thumb, finger, or
pacifier sucking)
2. Mouthbreathing (due to enlarged tonsils or adenoids, blocked
nasal passages etc.)
3. Premature loss of baby or adult teeth Regardless of whether
malocclusions are inherited or acquired, many of these problems
affect not only alignment of the teeth but also facial development
and appearance as well.A poor bite does not DIRECTLY cause tooth
decay, or periodontal disease. It may, however, make it difficult
to brush and floss properly which increases the likelihood of
dental disease.
Although a majority of the population have some type of
malocclusion, not all people require or seek orthodontic treatment.
For example, with or without a history of orthodontic treatment,
65% of adults develop crowded, crooked lower front teeth. This is a
natural result of change over time and does not necessarily require
orthodontic treatment.
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