Orthodontics
WHAT IS ORTHODONTIC?
The position of the teeth, how they came to be like that, and any future movement that may be required, to ensure that the patient’s bite is properly functional, are all things that orthodontists are concerned with, in addition to braces. Your orthodontic may be able to straighten your teeth using specialized treatments, such as traditional braces (with wires and brackets) or invisible braces (clear orthodontic aligners). Each technique varies by patient, in terms of cost and length of therapy.
FIXED BRACES
The fixed braces cannot be taken off. They are made of tiny brackets that are wired together and adhered to teeth. Upper and lower teeth can both benefit from fixed braces. Today’s braces are more discreet, lighter, and smaller. For children, they are available in vibrant colors.
You may always choose ceramic braces so that they will match the color of your natural teeth and wont be showing very much.
After the course of treatment is complete, the teeth are cleaned of brackets and adhesive.
RETAINERS
Retainers are braces that don’t actively move teeth. Instead, they ensure that the teeth continue to be in their proper position after other orthodontic treatment is over. They can be fixed or detachable. Teeth tend to return to their normal places without a retainer. The majority of orthodontists recommend wearing a retainer permanently, but it is often worn for at least six months.
PLASTIC ALIGNERS
A relatively new type of orthodontic treatment allows teeth to be straightened using removable, see-through, plastic aligners (e.g. Invisalign). This treatment is only suitable for certain people.
CLEAR ORTHODONTICS ALIGNERS
Clear orthodontic aligners can straighten a dental patient’s teeth without the wires and brackets of traditional braces. The aligners consist of a sequence of clear, removable trays that fit over the teeth to straighten them. Each tray must be worn by the patient for a specified amount of time—usually around 20 hours a day for two weeks–before the patient can progress to the next tray. In most situations, the aligners can straighten teeth in anywhere from six to 18 months. Clear orthodontic aligners are suitable for patients with mild or moderate crowding, or minor spacing issues. They may not be appropriate for patients with severe crowding or spacing. While the aligners can correct a mild malocclusion, patients with severe underbites, overbites or crossbites may require more advanced orthodontic treatment.
Unlike traditional braces, the trays can be removed for brushing, flossing, and eating. Because the trays are clear, patients can undergo this type of orthodontic treatment without the usual discomfort associated with regular braces