Orthodontic treatment helps in correcting misaligned teeth and jaws. Misalignment of teeth, sometimes minor and sometimes severe, can lead to dental problems. These problems are treated with simple procedures as well as dental surgery. The treatment also reduces pain and pressure felt by the jaws, teeth and even the gums as seen with this advanced dental procedure.

There are different procedures in Orthodontic treatment all of which focus on preserving oral and dental health.

The following are some of the common issues that can be helped with Orthodontic treatment.

Overcrowding of teeth

This issue is one of the main reasons why many seek orthodontic treatment. There is the issue of too many teeth in the mouth and the teeth are overcrowded in the available space. This condition causes problems while cleaning teeth; flossing becomes quite impossible and decay sets in very easily. Plaque and tartar formation will also happen quickly as the food debris gets caught in between the overcrowded teeth and bacteria brings in decay.

Bite issues

Bite issues are seen when the upper jaw and the lower jaw do not meet correctly while biting or chewing food. This is also termed malocclusion and this issue will affect the appearance of a person as the face changes due to this bite issue. It can be of different types depending on how the jaws do not meet like open bite/underbite etc. A misaligned bite is also seen in some when the upper teeth/jaw is overlapped by the lower jaw. These different conditions will wear down the teeth and teeth restoration procedures are needed.

Spacing between teeth

This condition can be considered as the opposite of overcrowding of teeth in which there is a space between two teeth. This condition also brings in other dental concerns of gum diseases and decay. This happens because the gums are exposed and not protected by the presence of the teeth. Infections or injuries or cuts can happen right on the exposed gums and infection can set in easily. Like overcrowded teeth, spacing between teeth will bring down the confidence of a person. This issue is experienced by many as the spacing between the teeth is usually seen in the front teeth.

Improper teeth development

Teeth development follows a definite pattern. Baby teeth give way to adult permanent teeth. Sometimes the teeth come out in an angel or it fails to erupt. Tooth erupting where another tooth is already present is one of the reasons for impacted teeth or because there is not enough space in the jaw for the teeth. Both these situations require orthodontic procedures to set them right. If there is early screening done as part of dental consultations, then these major issues can be set right.

Types of Orthodontic treatment

The following are the different types of orthodontic treatment procedures that are commonly performed.

Braces

When the issue of overcrowded teeth comes up, then braces are a good option to go to for help. Proper alignment of the teeth is corrected using braces. They are small brackets of metals placed to the front or back of the teeth and connected to other teeth using the metals. The position of the braces is changed or adjusted over time to move the teeth to the desired position. Braces come in different forms now, with wire braces not visible or they come in colourful bands and making it fun to have one especially for kids.

Aligners

There are aligners which offer another option in this treatment procedure. There are no wires or brackets in this type. These are clear, plastic trays that can be removed and cleaned and then worn again. This is unlike the metal braces which cannot be removed at home and requires help of an expert to remove. There are also clear aligners or Invisalign that can be slipped into the teeth which need correction and they are not invisible and preferred by many adults due to this reason.

Elastics

Elastics are another type that provide help in orthodontic treatment – they are tiny rubber bands which along with the braces help to move the teeth to the desired positions. Hooks are placed which will be the attachment points for the bands. It is very important not to continue wearing the elastics after the prescribed time as this will put extra pressure on the teeth.

Caring after Orthodontic treatment

Most dentists prefer to do this treatment after all the permanent teeth have erupted. Depending on the age when the treatment is planned – adults will need to give support to treatment for aftercare.

If braces are worn by children, then adults will need to teach children how to clean with the braces on. Care should be taken on how to clean between the braces carefully so that food debris does not get stuck between the teeth. There are special tooth brushes available that will help in this cleaning.

The time for the treatment depends on the dental issue the person has. Some will take only months as in the case of braces but if it is a complex issue like the bite correction, this can take a few years to complete. Appointments with the orthodontist are not often but once in six to ten weeks, this time will be used to check the progress and make the required adjustments in the prosthetics used.

Proper care should be taken with orthodontic treatment including changes in the prosthetic device. If it is not, decay can set in and damage the teeth. Oral health can also be detrimentally affected.

It is important to follow the dentist’s instructions carefully in order to ensure and maintain good oral health.

If you are looking for any orthodontic treatment, get in touch with our office and we will be happy to fix an appointment for you. After a consultation, we can provide recommendations on the best treatment plan to suit your specific needs. Soon you will be the proud owner of a pleasing smile.