Orthodontics
Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that corrects irregularities or misalignments of the teeth and jaws. It also aims to achieve an aesthetic appearance for functions such as biting, speaking, smiling and chewing.
Common conditions treated by orthodontics include
- Crowding due to the eruption of additional teeth
- Misalignment of teeth and jaws
- Dysfunctions such as mouth breathing
- Early loss of milk teeth due to tooth decay
- Trauma from falls or bumps
- Prolonged pacifier use or hard biting habits
- Thumb sucking
- Teeth grinding
- Underbite or overbite
- Skeletal disorders (may require surgery)
- Spaces left by extracted teeth
In order to have an aesthetically pleasing dental and jaw structure, it is important to seek orthodontic treatment without delay. If you think you have a malocclusion, improper bite or crooked teeth or jaws, you can seek advice from a dentist. After a dental examination, the dentist will determine the need for orthodontic treatment and provide you with the necessary information.
Orthodontic treatment involves applying force to the teeth or jaw. Examples of these treatments are
- Fixed appliances: Braces - brackets and wires apply pressure to the teeth, gradually moving them into the correct position.
Types of orthodontic braces:
- Metal braces
- Ceramic braces
- Lingual braces (attached to the inside of the teeth)
- Removable appliances
- Aligners (clear aligners)
- Orthodontic appliances (splints used to ensure proper jaw alignment and correct joint disorders)
- Palatal expanders (plastic devices screwed onto the palate to apply force and cause expansion)
- Retainers (used to maintain the results of treatment and prevent teeth from moving back into their original position)
- Headgear (used to slow down the development of the upper jaw, keep the back teeth in place and prevent the front teeth from moving forward; consists of bands and wires)
Please note that this translation provides a general overview of orthodontics and its treatments. It is always advisable to consult a dental professional for specific diagnosis and treatment options.