Orthodontics

The branch of dentistry known as orthodontics deals with teeth that are positioned incorrectly. An individual may struggle with eating or speaking if they have an overbite, crowding or misalignment of the teeth in the jaws. In these situations, orthodontic treatment is advised to gradually reposition the teeth so that they are properly aligned. If someone wants a nicer smile, orthodontics can also be done for cosmetic reasons.

A person may have a malocclusion or incorrect bite from birth, or they may develop one over time due to trauma or unhealthy habits, including thumb-sucking as a toddler. A “bad bite” or malocclusion can eventually lead to issues with your oral health.

What are the benefits of Orthodontics?

Because misaligned teeth or poor posture increase the risk of dental decay and gingivitis, orthodontics is crucial. An inappropriate teeth positioning can make it more difficult to floss certain teeth, which lead to poor oral hygiene and harm your oral health.

Orthodontics can be applied to:

minimize spaces between teeth
Make sure your jaw and teeth are in proper alignment.
Allow proper teeth positioning.
Enhance eating and phonetics

How to determine whether you require orthodontic treatment?

Dentists can determine if a patient needs orthodontic treatment by reviewing their dental history, creating a plaster model of their teeth and/or obtaining dental X-rays. If your dentist suggests orthodontic treatment, they will refer you to an orthodontist who can create a customized treatment plan for you.

Types of orthodontic treatment

Orthodontic treatment methods involve using a tool that can gently straighten your teeth. Braces, aligners, retainers, headgear, and Invisalign are a few examples of orthodontic appliances. To get the desired effects, these instruments need to be looked after and maintained. To ensure you achieve the greatest outcomes from your treatment, your orthodontist will provide you detailed instructions.

Types of fixed appliances are:

braces

Special fixed appliances

To stop thumb sucking or tongue thrusting, they should only be used as a last option. Because of the bands that is holding them to the teeth, they can be rather painful to wear when eating.

Fixed space maintainers

Young children can have early tooth loss. An orthodontist or pedodontist may use a space maintainer to keep your child’s tooth space open until a permanent tooth erupts in such circumstances.

Types of Removable appliances include:

Aligners

which are gaining popularity as an adult-only alternative to conventional braces. Similar to braces, aligners may shift teeth, however they are nearly undetectable and don’t need metal wires and brackets. You must take them out if you’re using them when you’re eating, brushing, and flossing.

Splints

are another name for appliances that realign the jaw. By training the jaw to close more firmly, they are used to treat TMJ issues. They may be applied to either the top or bottom jaw.

Lip and cheek bumpers

The muscles in your lips and cheeks may press on your teeth. To prevent your lips and cheeks from brushing up against the teeth in such circumstances bumpers are used.

Palatal expander

A plastic plate that goes across the roof of the mouth makes up the palatal expander. When your upper jaw’s arch has to be wider, this procedure is used.

Some treatments for orthodontics are advised for children. The reason behind this is that a child’s facial bones are more easier to move and manipulate since they are still growing. The upper jaw of a youngster can be made wider with the use of a palate expander. The majority of kids don’t require palate expanders. However, when used properly, these tools can add more space without the necessity for surgery or teeth extractions.

Removable retainers: You’ll require a retainer once your orthodontic treatment is over whether you use braces or clear aligners. A fitted dental item called a retainer prevents your teeth from moving from their ideal placements. How frequently you should wear your retainer to preserve the outcomes of treatment can be determined by your orthodontist.
Headgear: These tools slows the increased growth of the upper jaw. Additionally, they maintain the position of the posterior teeth while pulling back the front teeth.

Treatment for more severe instances may include surgery to reposition the jaw along with set braces. It takes place at a hospital.

Who is not a candidate for orthodontic treatment?

You should not have any bad dental conditions, such as widespread dental caries or gum disease, to be eligible for orthodontic treatment. Your dental health may be seriously harmed if you wear braces on bad teeth.

Visit a dentist for care if you have any dental or gum problem. Ask your dentist if orthodontic treatment is appropriate for you once you have controlled those issues.

How long do braces last?

The average treatment period will require fixed braces for between 18 and 24 months. Treatment may take up to three years for people who have more complicated issues or who are older. Treatment may be completed in 6 to 12 months if you have less serious problems or are a good candidate for invisible aligners like Invisalign.

What advantages might orthodontic treatment offer?

Orthodontic treatment has obvious aesthetic advantages. However it also have advantages in terms of functionality and health:

When your teeth are correctly aligned, cleaning them is much easier.
You may be able to speak more clearly and chew food more easily after having your teeth straightened.
Orthodontic therapy can help to lessen the pain brought on by TMJ disorders.
Having an aligned bite helps reduce your risk of acquiring cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues.
With the help of orthodontics, you may get and keep a beautiful, healthy smile.