Orthodontics is a division of dentistry that includes the diagnosis, prevention, intervention, direction, and correction of bad bites or dental irregularities, including the use of braces. Orthodontic treatment helps ensure the proper functioning of teeth and the creation of healthy smiles.Â
Teeth that are misaligned are harder to clean and can cause the tooth's enamel to get worn down prematurely. This, in turn, may lead to extensive and expensive dental procedures.Â
Orthodontic treatment does not offer instant results. It is a complex, organic process and includes bringing about changes in jawbones, facial bones, and soft tissue as teeth are relocated into their new positions.
An orthodontist often starts with a detailed examination of the teeth and mouth and a study of dental records such as X-rays, photos, and teeth models. The orthodontist, equipped with this dental data, would then develop a customized treatment plan to suit your individual needs. The time and effort spent in orthodontic treatments will result in a lifetime of improved oral health along with a winning smile.
The type of orthodontic treatment a dentist would advise depends mainly on your orthodontic problem, the severity of the problem, your convenience, budget, and comfort.
The major components of this orthodontic treatment include metal brackets, wires, and bands of braces. Braces may be suggested by your orthodontist for major orthodontic problems or if you want to close gaps and align your teeth quickly.Â
With the latest advancements in orthodontic treatments, the wires of the braces are designed to be less apparent than the wires of the past, and colorful elastic bands make braces more appealing and fun to wear. Clear braces are becoming more popular among adolescents, and adults are also increasingly opting for braces to correct their smiles.
Orthodontic aligners can help straighten your teeth without using wires or brackets associated with the traditional braces. The process of aligners includes using a series of clear, plastic, removable trays attached to your teeth. Each aligner has to be worn for a specified amount of time each day, usually about 20 hours, for two weeks, before moving on to the next tray. Unlike the traditional braces, the aligners can be removed to carry out the mouth's normal functions, such as eating, brushing, and flossing. This type of treatment is widely chosen by adults and older teens whose primary concern is the braces' aesthetic appearance.
Sometimes, young children lose their teeth prematurely. In such cases, an orthodontist will attach a space maintainer in your child's mouth to keep the space open until a permanent tooth appears.
These devices slow down the upper jaw's growth and hold the back teeth in position while the front teeth are pulled back.
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