Orthodontics in Tallahassee, FL | Brittney K. Craig, DMD

Orthodontics: Aligning Teeth for Health and Confidence

Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry focused on guiding teeth and jaws into functional, long-lasting positions. Beyond the visual appeal of a straight smile, well-aligned teeth enable cleaner oral hygiene, more efficient chewing, and a balanced bite that reduces stress on teeth and supporting structures. Treatments range from simple guided movement of a single tooth to coordinated care that reshapes how the upper and lower jaws relate to one another.

People pursue orthodontic care for many reasons: crowded or gapped teeth, teeth that have shifted after extractions, persistent oral habits, or bite patterns that interfere with speaking or chewing. In some cases, the underlying problem is skeletal—meaning the jaws themselves need guidance over time to achieve harmony and function. A careful clinical evaluation determines which combination of appliances and timing will best meet both cosmetic and health goals.

Modern orthodontic therapy applies gentle, controlled forces through customized appliances to move teeth predictably. These forces encourage bone to remodel around shifting tooth roots so new alignment becomes stable. The mechanics are intentional and gradual, designed to keep tissues healthy while producing reliable outcomes that stand the test of time.

At the office of Brittney K. Craig, DMD, we emphasize thoughtful planning and clear explanations so every patient understands why a specific approach is recommended and what to expect during treatment.

Why Straight Teeth Matter Beyond Looks

A straight smile does more than improve appearance: it supports long-term oral health. Teeth that nestle together in a regular pattern are easier to clean. Fewer tight, inaccessible spaces means less plaque buildup, which lowers the risk of cavities and gum inflammation. Good alignment also helps seal the mouth with the lips, offering natural protection from injury and wear.

Functional alignment protects your bite. When upper and lower teeth meet as intended, chewing is more efficient and forces are distributed evenly across the dentition. Misalignment can concentrate stress on a few teeth, leading to excessive wear, chipping, or sensitivity over time. Correcting those relationships preserves tooth structure and reduces the likelihood of future restorative needs.

Alignment also influences jaw comfort. Poor occlusion can contribute to strain on the temporomandibular joints and the muscles that support the jaw, sometimes producing headaches, jaw soreness, or difficulty opening and closing the mouth. Addressing bite problems early helps maintain joint health and overall comfort.

Finally, a stable, well-maintained alignment supports overall wellness by making preventive care more effective and more comfortable — a practical investment in oral health that pays dividends for years to come.

Easier daily cleaning reduces decay and gum disease risk.
Teeth that sit within the protective shadow of the lips are less prone to trauma.
Proper alignment improves chewing, speech, and bite efficiency.
Even distribution of forces limits uneven wear and chipping.
A balanced bite supports jaw joint health and reduces chronic muscle tension.
Overall oral function and comfort contribute to a higher quality of life.

Brittney K. Craig, DMD | Gum Therapy, Bonding and Porcelain Veneers

How We Decide Which Treatment Fits You

Choosing between fixed braces, clear aligners, or other appliances is a personalized process. The decision hinges on the specifics of the bite problem, the position and spacing of teeth, jaw relationships, and whether any extractions or auxiliary devices will be needed. Clinical imaging and careful records help predict how teeth will respond to different mechanics and how long treatment will likely take.

Patient lifestyle and daily needs also matter. Some people prefer removable appliances that allow easier eating and cleaning, while others choose the control or precision of fixed brackets. Compliance is an important consideration: clear aligners rely on consistent wear, whereas traditional braces deliver continuous force without patient intervention.

Orthodontic care sometimes requires a combination of approaches — for example, using fixed appliances to accomplish complex tooth movements, followed by aligners to refine finishing and aesthetics. Whatever the sequence, the goal is a healthy, stable result that meets the patient’s functional needs and personal preferences.

Severity and type of bite discrepancy affect appliance choice.
Amount of crowding or spacing guides whether teeth must be moved individually or in groups.
The need for extractions or supportive devices alters the treatment plan.
Jaw relationships determine whether growth modification or surgical consultation is needed.
Expected duration and patient cooperation influence the recommended mechanics.
Oral hygiene and appliance maintenance are essential to achieving predictable outcomes.

Brittney K. Craig, DMD | Teeth Whitening, Orthodontics and Oral Cancer Screening

Technology Bringing Precision and Comfort to Treatment

Advances in imaging and digital planning have changed what orthodontics can achieve. Three-dimensional scans, computer-aided treatment simulations, and precise manufacturing allow clinicians to visualize outcomes before treatment begins and to tailor mechanics to individual anatomy. These tools improve predictability and often shorten unnecessary adjustments.

Appliance design has evolved as well. Smaller brackets, tooth-colored ceramic options, self-ligating systems, and lingual braces offer effective mechanics with improved comfort and aesthetics. Temporary anchorage devices (TADs) and other adjuncts expand what’s possible without invasive surgery in many cases.

Clear aligner therapy has become a mainstream option for many patients, prized for its discretion and convenience. Aligners are custom-produced and changed at scheduled intervals to guide teeth through a planned sequence of moves. Because they’re removable, they simplify eating and oral hygiene — though they also require disciplined wear to be effective.

How clear aligners work and when they’re suitable

Clear aligners are composed of a series of thin, removable trays made to fit each stage of movement. Patients switch aligners on a regular cadence, progressively shifting teeth toward the planned position. For many mild-to-moderate alignment concerns, aligners provide a smooth, unobtrusive path to a straighter smile.

That said, aligners are not a universal solution. Complex bite corrections, significant vertical changes, or cases that demand very precise root movements may still be best managed with fixed appliances or a hybrid approach that incorporates both technologies.

Our team reviews each case with a focus on long-term stability and oral health — matching the appliance to the patient’s anatomy and goals rather than fitting the patient to a single product.

Brittney K. Craig, DMD | Oral Cancer Screening, Root Canals and Dental Sealants

Orthodontic Care for Children, Teens, and Adults

Orthodontic planning spans the entire lifespan. For children, early evaluation identifies developing issues that may benefit from interceptive measures — guiding jaw growth, preserving space for permanent teeth, or curbing harmful habits. Many comprehensive treatments start in the preteen years when a mix of baby and permanent teeth allows for efficient correction while growth assists the process.

Teenage patients often complete the bulk of alignment during adolescence, with appliances typically worn one to three years depending on the complexity of the case. After active treatment, retainers are essential to protect the new positions while tissues and supporting fibers stabilize.

Adult orthodontics continues to grow in popularity. Healthy adults can achieve excellent results with modern techniques, though treatment often begins with ensuring that gums and teeth are healthy and any restorative needs are addressed first. Orthodontic care for adults can resolve longstanding functional problems and enhance both appearance and oral function.

Consistent follow-up and retainer wear are critical for maintaining results in every age group. With thoughtful planning and ongoing care, the benefits of orthodontics can last a lifetime.

In our practice, we aim to make the process understandable, comfortable, and clinically sound for patients at every stage of life. If you’re curious whether orthodontic care is right for you or a family member, contact us to learn more about the evaluation and treatment options available.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is orthodontics and how does it work?

Orthodontics is the dental specialty that guides teeth and jaws into positions that support long-term function and health. Treatments use customized appliances to apply gentle, controlled forces that encourage bone to remodel around shifting tooth roots so new positions become stable. The process is gradual and planned to protect surrounding tissues while achieving predictable movement.

Orthodontic mechanics can address a single misaligned tooth or coordinate broader changes to how the upper and lower jaws relate to one another. Clinicians combine clinical exams, imaging, and dental records to design an efficient sequence of movements tailored to each patient. The goal is a balanced bite that improves cleaning, chewing, and comfort as well as appearance.

Who is a good candidate for orthodontic treatment?

Candidates for orthodontic care include children, teens and adults who have crowding, spacing, bite discrepancies, or teeth that have shifted after previous treatment. Healthy gums and teeth are important before starting active movement, so a clinical evaluation addresses periodontal and restorative needs first. Skeletal problems that involve the jaws may require growth modification or collaboration with other specialists for an optimal result.

Suitability also depends on treatment goals and patient commitment to care and follow-up. Some adults seek orthodontics to improve function or to prepare for restorative procedures, while many young patients benefit from early interceptive measures. The treatment plan is individualized to match anatomy, health, and lifestyle considerations.

When should children have their first orthodontic evaluation?

Early evaluation is recommended when a child’s primary and permanent teeth are developing so that potential issues can be identified before they become more complex. A screening around the mixed dentition stage allows the clinician to monitor jaw growth, space for permanent teeth, and habits that can affect alignment. Detecting developing problems early can expand options and sometimes reduce the need for more invasive treatment later on.

Not every child will require immediate intervention, but an early visit helps establish a timeline for monitoring and, if needed, timely action. When treatment is indicated, planning can take advantage of growth and dental development to achieve efficient, stable outcomes. Regular follow-up ensures that treatment begins at the most effective time for each patient.

What are the main differences between braces and clear aligners?

Fixed braces are bonded to the teeth and use brackets and wires to deliver continuous force, offering precise control for a wide range of tooth movements. Clear aligners are removable, custom-made trays that move teeth through a planned series of stages, and they are often favored for their discretion and ease of cleaning. Each system has strengths: braces excel at complex or very precise corrections, while aligners provide convenience and better access for daily hygiene.

Decision-making depends on the nature of the malocclusion and patient factors such as lifestyle and compliance. Aligners require consistent wear to be effective, whereas braces work without patient intervention between adjustments. In many cases a hybrid approach that combines fixed appliances and aligners can achieve both functional goals and aesthetic refinement.

How do you decide which orthodontic appliance is right for me?

Selecting an appliance begins with a comprehensive clinical evaluation that includes dental records, imaging, and assessments of jaw relationships and tooth positions. The severity and type of bite discrepancy, the presence of crowding or spacing, and whether extractions or auxiliaries are necessary all help determine the mechanics needed to achieve stable results. Predictable outcomes rely on matching the appliance to the biological demands of the case rather than vice versa.

Patient preferences and daily needs are also important when choosing between removable and fixed options. Factors such as expected treatment time, aesthetic priorities, ability to maintain hygiene, and willingness to follow wear instructions influence the final recommendation. The treatment plan is discussed in detail so patients understand the rationale and what to expect throughout care.

How does technology improve orthodontic outcomes?

Modern imaging and digital planning tools have significantly increased predictability in orthodontics by allowing three-dimensional visualization and computer-aided treatment simulations. These technologies help clinicians anticipate tooth movement, design precise appliance components, and reduce unnecessary adjustments during active treatment. Improved planning also supports better communication of expected outcomes with patients.

Advances in appliance design — including smaller brackets, ceramic options, temporary anchorage devices and refined aligner manufacturing — have expanded treatment possibilities while enhancing comfort and aesthetics. Digital workflows can shorten treatment time in some cases and increase the precision of finishing movements. Technology complements clinical judgment to deliver efficient, patient-centered care.

What should patients expect during orthodontic appointments?

An initial orthodontic appointment typically includes a thorough exam, orthodontic records such as scans or radiographs, and a discussion of diagnosis and treatment options. Subsequent visits generally involve adjustments, monitoring of tooth movement, and occasional refinements to the plan as needed. Appointments are an opportunity to review oral hygiene, address appliance-related questions, and confirm that treatment is progressing as intended.

Routine follow-up intervals vary with the chosen mechanics but are designed to keep tooth movement controlled and safe. Patients should expect guidance on maintaining oral health while undergoing treatment and instructions for managing common issues such as minor discomfort or appliance irritation. The office team coordinates care to minimize surprises and to support predictable outcomes.

How long does orthodontic treatment usually take and what affects timing?

Treatment duration varies widely and can range from several months to a few years depending on the complexity of the case and the movements required. Mild alignment concerns often resolve more quickly, while significant bite corrections, skeletal discrepancies, or cases that require extractions typically extend treatment time. Growth and biological response to orthodontic forces also influence how quickly desired changes occur.

Patient factors such as compliance with aligner wear or appliance care, consistency of appointments, and adherence to oral hygiene recommendations play an important role in keeping treatment on schedule. The presence of adjunctive procedures or the need for interdisciplinary care can affect timelines as well. Clinicians provide an estimated duration based on records and will update that estimate as treatment progresses.

How should patients care for their teeth and appliances during treatment?

Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is essential during orthodontic treatment to prevent decay and gum inflammation and to support predictable movement. Patients with fixed appliances should brush carefully around brackets and wires and use appropriate interdental cleaning tools, while aligner users should remove trays for eating and clean both teeth and aligners regularly. Regular professional cleanings and checkups remain important throughout treatment.

Avoiding very hard or sticky foods helps protect bonded appliances and reduces the risk of breakage that can delay progress. Patients are encouraged to report any appliance damage or persistent discomfort promptly so the team can make timely repairs or adjustments. Following care instructions and attending scheduled visits are key contributors to a smooth treatment experience.

How are orthodontic results maintained after active treatment?

Retention is a planned phase of care that follows active tooth movement and is essential to protect the new positions while supporting tissues and fibers stabilize. Retainers may be removable or fixed depending on the case and are typically worn according to a schedule recommended by the clinician to minimize relapse. Ongoing evaluation helps ensure that the alignment remains stable and that retainers continue to fit properly.

Long-term maintenance includes routine dental care and periodic orthodontic checkups so that changes can be detected early and addressed if needed. Patients can discuss personalized retainer plans and follow-up recommendations with the office of Brittney K. Craig, DMD to preserve function and appearance over time. Consistent retainer use and good oral hygiene provide the best chance for lasting results.

Orthodontics