Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of “bad bites” (malocclusion). Common orthodontic medicines incorporate braces, clear aligners and retainers. Orthodontics may be a specialized department of dentistry. The term “orthodontics” can be broken down into two Greek words – “orthos” meaning straight or adjust and “dantics” meaning teeth. So orthodontics portrays the method of straightening misaligned or distorted teeth. The way your teeth fit together has a noteworthy effect on your verbal well-being.
By improving the way your upper and lower teeth meet, you can reduce your risk for many oral health problems, including cavities, gum disease and excessive wear (erosion).
Orthodontists offer orthodontic treatment
In most cases, orthodontists perform this sort of treatment. An orthodontist could be a specialist who gets two to three a long time of extra preparation after graduating from dental school. They focus on improving your bite. They do not perform general dentistry treatments such as fillings, crowns or bridges.
According to the American Association of Orthodontists, children should have their first orthodontic visit after age 7. Although many children will not need treatment at this age, it is a good time to find out if there is a problem.
Common Orthodontic Problems
Types of orthodontic problems include:
- Overbite, when your upper teeth overlap your lower teeth.
Underbite, when your lower teeth stick out more than your upper teeth.
- Overlapping teeth.
- Crowded teeth.
- Crooked teeth.
- Twisted teeth.
- Impacted teeth (those that are partially or completely stuck in your jawbone).
Orthodontic treatment
To qualify for orthodontic treatment, you must not have any serious dental problems such as extensive decay or gum disease. Setting braces on ailing teeth can have a genuine negative effect on your verbal well-being.
If you have cavities or gum disease, see a dentist for treatment. Once you’ve managed these conditions, ask your dentist if orthodontic treatment is right for you.
Procedure Details
There are several treatments that fall under the specialty of orthodontics. Some of the most common include:
- Braces
Braces use a combination of brackets, bands and wires to gradually move your teeth into their desired position over time. There are different types of braces to suit your needs, including traditional metal braces and clear.
- Clean the aligners.
Clear orthodontic aligners are a prevalent elective for braces. Popular brands include Envisaging and Clear Correct. Instead of using brackets and wires to straighten your teeth, these systems use a series of custom-made, clear aligner trays. You wear each set of plates for one to two weeks sometimes recently exchanging for another set within the arrangement. Over time, clear aligners move your teeth into their proper place.
- The maintainers
If you wear braces or braces, you will need a retainer after your orthodontic treatment is finished. A retainer is a custom mouth appliance that prevents your teeth from moving out of their proper position. Your orthodontist can tell you how often you will need to wear your retainer to maintain the results of the treatment.
- Palate expanders
Orthodontists prescribe certain treatments in childhood. This is because the baby’s facial bones are still developing and are very easy to move and manipulate. A palatal (palatal) expander helps widen the baby’s upper jaw. Most children do not need palate expanders. But under the right circumstances, these appliances can create additional space without the need for tooth extraction or other procedures.
Benefits of orthodontics
The cosmetic benefits of orthodontics are obvious. But these treatments also offer functional and health benefits:
When your teeth are properly aligned, they are much easier to clean.
Straightening your teeth can improve chewing and speaking performance. Orthodontic treatment can reduce pain associated with TMJ disorders. An aligned bite can reduce your risk of cavities, gum disease, and other oral health problems.
Orthodontics can help you achieve and maintain a beautiful, healthy smile.
Disadvantages of orthodontics
The main disadvantage is short-term: you have to follow the treatment guidelines closely and be patient until you reach your goal. For some people, orthodontic treatment takes less than a year. For others, it can take two years or more. Because each person has their own unique needs, treatment times look different for everyone. Ask your orthodontist what to expect.
If you don’t clean well around your orthodontic appliances, you’re also at a higher risk of cavities. Be beyond any doubt to take after your orthodontist’s verbal cleanliness proposals.
