Orthodontics		  

An introduction to the straightening of teeth

Crooked teeth are a common dental problem. Some experts have estimated that up to seven people out of ten would benefit from orthodontic treatment at some point in their lives.

Orthodontic literally means "straight teeth". And is the branch of dentistry which deals with the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of problems in the alignment of teeth and jaws.

"Occlusion" in the contact of the upper and lower teeth during chewing or when the jaws are closed. And is commonly called "bite". Proper occlusion in important for good oral health and for an attractive appearance of the mouth and teeth.

A person who has an alignment problem with their teeth or jaw has a "malocclusion", which literally means "bad bite". The aim of orthodontic treatment is to correct the malocclusion.

Orthodontic treatment involves the design and use of corrective appliances known as braces, plates and headgear, among others.




These appliances move teeth by exerting a constant light pressure to them. When the appliances are tightened, the teeth receive more pressure. In response to pressure, a tooth will move slowly through the jaw bone. This process will case some tenderness and sometimes pain, but most people report that the discomfort is minor.

Due to developments in technology, the appliances used today are more comfortable and effective than before. Modern braces are not as visible as earlier devices.
The importance of straight teeth

People have orthodontic treatment to improve the appearance, health and function of their teeth.

These days, with good oral hygiene and regular dental care, teeth should last a lifetime.

Appearance: People are very aware of how their teeth look to others And attractive smile can play an important role in enhancing self-confidence.

Hygiene: It is more difficult to clean teeth that are crowded and overlapping. Inadequate cleaning is a major factor in tooth decay, gum disease and eventual tooth loss. Chewing Your ability to chew food is best when your bite is correct. Proper and thorough chewing of food aids digestion.

Speech problems: Some people have difficulty speaking properly because of alignment problems with their teeth and jaws.

Gum damage: Is severe malocclusions the teeth may damage the gum. For example, in case of deep bite, the lover front teeth can bite into the gum behind the upper front teeth.

Tooth wear: Crooked teeth often show abnormal patterns of wears.

Orthodontic problems

Even though a person's smile may appear presentable, a significant malocclusion may still be present. Warning signs which indicate that you or your child should seek an orthodontic assessment include:

Crowded or overloaded teeth

Protruding teeth
;
Reverse bite
Deep bite
;
Open bite
Cross bite
Missing teeth
Thumb or finger sucking
Open-mouth breathing
Difficulty in chewing or biting
Difficulty with speech.

When to seek an orthodontic assessment

Orthodontic problems can be apparent by seven to nine years of age, when most of the adult front teeth have come though.

However, problems may be detected earlier than this.

Early Treatment

Early examination of the teeth and jaws allows the dentist and orthodontist to detect and evaluate problems and plan the best treatment. In some cases, early treatment may prevent orthodontic problems from getting worse. It may also result is shorter and les complicated treatment if more treatment is required at a later age. In, most patients, the optimal time to start orthodontic treatment is after the last baby tooth has been shed. This usually occurs by 12 years of age.

Treatment for adults

In the past, orthodontic treatment was generally restricted to children and teenagers. However, the basic process involved in moving teeth in the same at any age, and orthodontic treatment is also successful for adults. Treatment is usually longer for adults because their jaw bones are more dense than in children. As 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 (called "orthognathic" surgery) can achieve improvements.

Orthodontic Treatment

Examination and Treatment planning

A through examination is important for proper diagnosis of a malocclusion. Records assist the accurate analysis of each patient.
They also records the exiting malocclusion for future reference.
    Records include:
  • impressions from which plaster models of each teeth are constructed.
  • Photographs of teeth and face
  • X-ray films of teeth and jaws.
    Advice can then be given on:
  • treatment options
  • when treatment should start
  • how long it should last
  • How much it is likely to cost
If it is too early to start treatment, the patient is reviewed at regular intervals until the time is right to start treatment.

Extractions and other preliminary treatments: Before orthodontic treatment starts, some people may need to have one or more teeth removed so that enough space is available to align the remaining teeth. Cavities in teeth should be filled. Teeth may also need to be professionally cleaned.

Braces

Braces are the most efficient and accurate way of moving teeth. Braces consist of bands, brackets and wires. They are usually made of stainless steel and selected metal alloys. Clear brackets (made of a tough ceramic) are available, usually at extra cost. Patients return about four to eight weeks for adjustments, wire changes, and general inspection of the treatment's progress. Rubber bands and headgear

During treatment, some patients may need to wear items such as rubber bands and headgear with their braces. These provide important extra forces for the correction of their bite.

Length of treatment

Orthodontic treatment usually takes 18 to 24 months. Some cases may be finished earlier, and others may take longer to complete. The total treatment time depend on the severity of the original malocclusion, the type of treatment carried out, and the cooperation of the patient. Treatment delays can be avoided by following instructions, keeping appointments and taking good care of teeth, gums and braces.

Other orthodontic appliances

Other appliances can be used either preceding or with braces, and sometimes as an alternative to braces. Such appliances and their common use include:
  • Arch expansion appliances to correct cross bites.
  • Functional appliances to correct protruding teeth.
  • And removable orthodontic plates to correct relatively simple malocclusions.
Your dentist or orthodontist will be able to advise you on the suitability or need for these appliances.

Dental Check-ups

Orthodontic patients should continue to attend their family dentist for regular check-ups during the course of orthodontic treatment.

Inconvenience during treatment

For most people, orthodontic treatment will require changes to their daily routine and diet. For example, you may not able to chew gum or eat toffees and similar foods. You should avoid soft drinks. You will need to intensify your efforts at keeping your teeth clean. When playing contact sports, a mouth guard should be worn, your dentist or orthodontist will give you more information when you start treatment.

Retention

At the completion of active 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 pay an important role in orthodontic treatment. If they are not worn according to instructions, the teeth may move out of alignment. Your dentist or orthodontist will want to inspect the corrected teeth at regular periods 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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