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What is orthodontics?
Orthodontics is that branch of dentistry which specialises in
the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of problems
in the alignment of teeth and jaws.
The technical term for these problems is malocclusion,
which literally means bad bite.
Orthodontic treatment involves the design and use of corrective appliances (such as braces, plates, headgears and functional appliances) to bring the teeth and jaws into proper alignment.
Why straighten teeth?
People have orthodontic treatment
to improve the appearance, health and function of their teeth.
Appearance
These days, with good oral hygiene and regular dental care,
your teeth should last a lifetime. People are very aware of how teeth look and an attractive smile will play an important role in enhancing your self-confidence.
Wouldn’t it be nice if your teeth looked good too?
Hygiene
It's more difficult to clean your teeth when they are crowded and overlapping. Indequate cleaning is a major factor in tooth decay, gum disease and eventual tooth loss. Having your teeth straightened will make it easier for you to look after them.
Tooth wear
Some bad bites lead to clenching, grinding, and excessive wear and/or uneven wear of the teeth.
Gum damage
In severe malocclusions the teeth can damage the gum.
For example, in cases of deep bite, the lower front teeth can bite into the gum behind the upper front teeth.
Jaw joint problems
Some bad bites stress the jaw joint causing damage and pain in and around the joint.
Speech
Some people have difficulty speaking properly because of alignment problems with their teeth and jaws.
When should you see an orthodontist?
Orthodontic problems are usually apparent by the age of nine, when most of the adult front teeth have erupted. However, your dentist may detect an orthodontic problem earlier.
Early examination allows the orthodontist to detect and evaluate problems and plan appropriate treatment.
Early treatment may prevent more serious problems from developing and/or make treatment at a later age shorter and less complicated. Early treatment may also achieve results that are not possible once the face and jaws have stopped growing.
In most cases, orthodontic treatment is commenced as soon as the last baby tooth has been shed. This usually occurs in the early teens. In some cases, it is an advantage to start just before the last baby teeth are shed.
In the past, orthodontic treatment was generally restricted to children. However, the basic process involved in moving teeth is the same at any age and orthodontic treatment is also successful for adults.
Because an adult's facial bones are no longer growing, some severe malocclusions cannot be corrected with braces alone. In such cases, orthodontic treatment combined with jaw surgery can achieve dramatic improvements.
Orthodontic Treatment
This section explains the various stages of a normal course of orthodontic treatment.
The first consultation
During this visit the patient is examined clinically. This enables the orthodontist to give advice on the treatment options available, when treatment should commence, the duration of treatment, and the approximate cost.
If the patient decides to proceed with treatment, an appointment is made to collect records.
Records
Records include:
.- Impressions from which plaster models of the teeth are
constructed.
.- Photographs of the teeth and face.
.- X-rays of the teeth and jaws.
Records allow the orthodontist to analyse each case accurately.
They are also used to record the existing malocclusion for future reference.
Treatment Planning
At this visit the orthodontist discusses the treatment plan(s) which have been formulated using information obtained from the first consultation and records.
Then, arrangements are made to commence treatment or, if it is too early, to review the patient periodically until it is an appropriate time to commence treatment.
Extractions and other preliminary procedures
Sometimes it is necessary to remove teeth to gain sufficient space to align the remaining teeth.
Any decayed teeth should be filled and the teeth sometimes need to be cleaned before orthodontic treatment is started.
The patient is referred back to the family dentist to have these preliminary procedures carried out. The cost of these procedures is not included in the orthodontic fee.
Braces
Braces are the most efficient and accurate way of moving teeth.
Braces (bands, brackets and wires) are usually made of stainless steel although clear brackets are available, usually at extra cost.
Fitting the braces usually involves two visits. Braces remain on the teeth for the entire duration of treatment.
Patients then attend approximately every 4-8 weeks for adjustments, wire changes, etc.
Rubber Bands and Headgear
During treatment, patients may need to wear such items as rubber bands and/or headgear with their braces. These items provide important extra forces for the correction of the bite.
How Long?
Orthodontic treatment usually takes 18 - 24 months. Some cases may be finished earlier and others may take longer to complete. The total treatment time depends on the severity of the original malocclusion, the type of treatment carried out, and the co-operation of the patient.
Dental check-ups
Orthodontic patients should continue to attend their family dentist for regular check-ups during the course of orthodontic treatment.
Retention
At the completion of the active part of orthodontic treatment, the braces are removed and retaining appliances (retainers) are fitted to hold the teeth steady in their new position. These appliances may be removable plates or wires fitted behind the teeth.
Retainers play an important role in orthodontic treatment for, if they are not worn according to instructions, the teeth may move back towards their original position.
The retaining appliances are usually worn:
.- Full-time for one year
.- Just at night for a further year
.- Phased out altogether over one more year
The corrected teeth are observed periodically for up to five years after the retainers have been phased out. During retention and the subsequent observation period, patients are expected to attend once or twice a year.
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