About Orthodontics
Orthodontic treatment is a specialized branch of dentistry focused on correcting misaligned teeth and jaws. It involves the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. Orthodontists use a variety of appliances, such as braces and clear aligners, to guide teeth into their proper position. The goal is not only to improve the appearance of your smile but also to enhance the overall function of your bite, making it easier to speak, chew, and maintain good oral hygiene.
Why Orthodontic Treatment is Necessary
Orthodontic treatment is often essential for both functional and aesthetic reasons. Misaligned teeth or jaws can lead to a range of issues, including:
- Difficulty with Chewing and Speaking: Poorly aligned teeth can make biting and chewing more difficult and may even affect speech.
- Tooth Decay and Gum Disease: Crowded or crooked teeth can be harder to clean, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
- Jaw Pain and Headaches: An improper bite can place extra strain on your jaw muscles, leading to discomfort, headaches, or even jaw joint disorders (TMJ).
- Aesthetics and Confidence: A straight, healthy smile can boost self-esteem and improve your overall appearance.
Orthodontic treatment addresses these concerns by correcting bite issues, improving oral health, and enhancing your smile.
How does orthodontic treatment work?
Orthodontic treatment works by applying gentle, constant pressure to the teeth over time, gradually moving them into the desired position.
- Consultation and Planning: Your orthodontist will first conduct a thorough examination, which may include X-rays, photographs, and impressions of your teeth. Based on this, a personalized treatment plan is created.
- Appliances: Depending on your needs, your orthodontist may recommend traditional braces, clear aligners, or other specialized appliances. These devices help guide the teeth into proper alignment.
- Regular Adjustments: Throughout your treatment, you’ll visit your orthodontist every six to eight weeks for regular checkups and adjustments. Each adjustment allows the appliances to continue guiding your teeth toward their ideal position. The initial wires are heat activated and tuned to your body's temperature so they will try to put your teeth into an ideal archform. Finishing wires are adjusted to make small changes to individual teeth and your bite to reach the final positions.
- Retention: After your teeth have moved into place, you’ll wear a retainer to ensure the teeth stay in their new position and don’t shift back. Many times your orthodontist will use a fixed wire behind intially rotated or spaced teeth to help maintain their ideal relationships.
How can you make orthodontic treatment successful?
Success in orthodontic treatment requires a combination of regular orthodontic care and good personal habits.
- Follow Your Orthodontist’s Instructions: Whether it’s wearing aligners for the recommended time each day or showing up for regular adjustments, sticking to your orthodontist’s plan is crucial. Non-compliance can increase your treatment time or lessen its success.
- Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene: Brushing and flossing regularly is essential, especially with braces or aligners, to prevent plaque buildup and cavities. Decalcification and tooth decay can result from poor oral hygiene, but not from the braces themselves.
- Avoid Harmful Habits: Chewing on hard objects (like ice or pens) or eating sticky, crunchy foods can damage braces or disrupt the treatment process. Multiple broken appliances will lengthen your treatment time.
- Wear Retainers as Prescribed: Once your treatment is complete, wearing retainers will ensure your teeth stay in their new position and don’t shift back over time.
With dedication and proper care, orthodontic treatment can deliver long-lasting, life-changing results, leaving you with a healthy, beautiful smile!