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Orthodontic treatment is a way of straightening or moving teeth, to improve the appearance of the teeth and how they work. It can also help to look after the long-term health of your teeth, gums and jaw joints, by spreading the biting pressure over all your teeth.
What is the best age to start orthodontic treatment?
Orthodontic Treatment Orthodontic treatmentto correct abnormalities in tooth position, is highly recommended for curing or preventing functional problems caused by malocclusion. Related problems include chewing and digestive problems, TMJ disorder, speech impediments, tooth wear and more.
What are the three classifications of orthodontic treatment?
Mar 31, 2021 · Orthodontists are the qualified dentists for correcting bite problems such as Underbite, Overbite, Crossbite and straightening teeth. But orthodontists tend to limit their practice to orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics …
Which orthodontic treatment is best for You?
Oct 04, 2021 · The Orthodontics treatment is considered to be an efficient way of attaining a proper set of teeth. It refers to straightening the uneven teeth or eliminating the gap between one’s teeth with the proper set. The appearance of your teeth and their proper functioning can be adequately taken care of with a regular visit and a treatment from an expert orthodontist in …
What to expect from orthodontic treatment?
Comprehensive orthodontic treatment is focused in the correction of an existing orthodontic problem by restoring the correct occlusion (‘bite’) of the teeth by using fixed appliances (braces) to gradually move the teeth. Treatment of malocclusion can begin at any age, regardless of the type of dentition the patient has.

What is included in orthodontic treatment?
Orthodontic care involves the use of devices, such as braces, to:Straighten teeth.Correct problems with bite.Close gaps between teeth.Align lips and teeth properly.Apr 12, 2021
What is a full orthodontic treatment?
Comprehensive orthodontic treatment refers to the traditional braces treatment that many people have gone through once all of their permanent teeth have erupted. Orthodontic treatment can be used for many different cases, whether it's an under bite, overbite, or general misalignment of teeth structure.
What are examples of orthodontics?
Examples of fixed orthodontic appliances include:Braces. ... Fixed-space maintainers. ... Removable space maintainers. ... Special fixed appliances. ... Removable orthodontic appliances. ... Aligners: This alternative to braces may be useful for adults.More items...
What are the three classifications of orthodontic treatment?
The classification of bites are broken up into three main categories: Class I, II, and III.Class I: Class I is a normal relationship between the upper teeth, lower teeth and jaws or balanced bite. ... Class II: ... Class III:
How long does orthodontic treatment last?
The length of orthodontic treatment varies from patient to patient. While some problems take less time to treat than others, the average orthodontic treatment lasts around two years. However, orthodontists can repair more moderate issues in as little as six months while more complex issues can take 3 years or more.Aug 26, 2016
When do you need orthodontic treatment?
Many orthodontists say kids should see an orthodontist once their permanent teeth start coming in, around age 7. At this age, issues such as uneven bite and overcrowding will become apparent. Starting the process early doesn't mean a child will get braces right away.
Is orthodontic treatment painful?
The honest answer is that braces do not hurt at all when they are applied to the teeth, so there is no reason to be anxious about the placement appointment. There will be mild soreness or discomfort after the orthodontic wire is engaged into the newly placed brackets, which may last for a few days to a week.
What are orthodontic problems?
An orthodontic problem is called a “malocclusion”, meaning "bad bite". Issues may include crowded teeth, extra teeth, missing teeth, or jaws that are out of alignment. Most issues are inherited although some may result from an accident, early or late loss of baby teeth, or prolonged sucking of the thumb or fingers.
What is difference between dentist and orthodontist?
Orthodontists typically specialize in aligning teeth and jaws, while dentists can help patients achieve a cleaner, healthier smile through cleanings, X-rays, and even surgery.
What charts are required for orthodontic treatment?
Traditionally, dental models, facial and intra-oral photographs and a set of two-dimensional radiographs are used for orthodontic diagnosis and treatment planning. As evidence is lacking, the discussion is ongoing which specific records are needed for the process of making an orthodontic treatment plan.Nov 12, 2013
What does a class 2 bite mean?
Class II. Class II is where the lower first molar is posterior (or more towards the back of the mouth) than the upper first molar. In this abnormal relationship, the upper front teeth and jaw project further forward than the lower teeth and jaw. There is a convex appearance in profile with a receding chin and lower lip ...
What are the 4 types of division classes in orthodontics?
Then he added divisions to the skeletal I, Division 1: Local mal- relationship of incisors, canines and premolars; Division 2: Maxillary incisor protrusion; Division 3: Maxillary incisors retrusion; Division 4: Bimaxillary protrusion.
What is an orthodontist?
Orthodontists provide fixed and removable appliances that correct an individual’s bite. The goal is to realign their teeth and create a new, beautiful smile over time. Irregular, crowded, and protruding (buck) teeth have been issues for many people for hundreds of years.
What is the term for a condition where the teeth are not positioned correctly in the upper and lower jaws?
Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that specializes in malocclusion treatment. In short, "malocclusion" is a condition where the teeth are not positioned correctly in the upper and lower jaws. When the teeth are misaligned, an improper bite can form, such as an overbite or underbite. Orthodontists provide fixed and removable appliances ...
How is malocclusion passed down?
Malocclusion is commonly passed down through genetics. Most people aren’t born with normal occlusion. As a result, they invest in orthodontic treatment for a long-term solution. Crowded teeth, gaps, and an incorrect bite are caused by the difference in teeth and jaw size.
What is the specialty of a dentist?
Dentists specialize in procedures related to your overall dental and oral health. These treatments include teeth cleanings, cavity fillings, crowns, implants, and gum disease treatment, among others. Some dentists are qualified to perform orthodontic treatments, but orthodontists are specialists in this area.
What is a class II overbite?
A class II malocclusion, or overbite, occurs when the upper teeth and jaw severely overlap the lower teeth and jaw. This form of malocclusion is common but less common than a class I malocclusion.
What is the clearest sign of malocclusion?
More specifically, the clearest sign of malocclusion is when the teeth are crooked or stick out. Depending on a person's teeth misalignment, an orthodontist will recommend the best treatment during an office visit. There are three different classes of malocclusion, referred to as class I, II, and III:
How long do you have to wear clear aligners?
Clear aligners are thin, plastic trays that are formed specifically to a patient’s teeth. You must wear each aligner for up to three weeks. This moves the teeth a fraction of a millimeter at a time. Instead of wearing braces, many people turn to aligners to fix crooked teeth, especially adults.
When was orthodontics invented?
As a modern science, orthodontics dates to the mid 1800s. The field's influential contributors include Norman William Kingsley (1829–1913) and Edward Angle (1855–1930). Angle created the first basic system for classifying malocclusions, a system which remains in use today.
When was orthodontics first recognized?
Specifically, the American Dental Association recognized orthodontics as a specialty in the 1950s. Each country has their own system for training and registering orthodontic specialists.
What degree do you need to become an orthodontist in Canada?
In Canada, obtaining a dental degree, such as a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Medical Dentistry (DMD), would be required before being accepted by a school for orthodontic training. Currently, there are 10 schools in the country offering the orthodontic specialty. Candidates should contact the individual school directly to obtain the most recent pre-requisites before entry. The Canadian Dental Association expects orthodontists to complete at least two years of post-doctoral, specialty training in orthodontics in an accredited program, after graduating from their dental degree.
What is orthodontic headgear?
Orthodontic headgear—sometimes referred to as an "extra-oral appliance" —is a treatment approach that requires the patient to have a device strapped onto his or her head to help correct malocclusion—typically used when the teeth do not align properly. Headgear is most often used along with braces or other orthodontic appliances. While braces correct the position of teeth, orthodontic headgear—which as the name suggests is worn on or is strapped onto the patient's head—is most often added to orthodontic treatment to help alter the alignment of the jaw, although there are some situations in which such an appliance can help move teeth, particularly molars.
How to become an orthodontist in Australia?
In Australia, to obtain an accredited three-year full-time university degree in orthodontics, one will need to be a qualified dentist (complete an AHPRA registered general dental degree) with a minimum of two years of clinical experience. There are several universities in Australia that offer orthodontic programs: University of Adelaide, University of Melbourne, University of Sydney, University of Queensland, University of Western Australia, University of Otago. Orthodontic Courses are accredited by the Australian Dental Council and reviewed by the Australian Society of Orthodontists (ASO). Prospective applicants should obtain information from the relevant institution before applying for admission. After completing a degree in orthodontics, specialists are required to be registered with the Australian Health Practitioners Regulation Agency (AHPRA) in order to practice.
How to treat skeletal discrepancies?
In growing patients there are more options to treat skeletal discrepancies, either by promoting or restricting growth using functional appliances, orthodontic headgear or a reverse pull facemask. Most orthodontic work is begun in the early permanent dentition stage before skeletal growth is completed.
How much of the world's population has malocclusions?
Nearly 50% of the developed world's population, according to the American Association of Orthodontics, has malocclusions severe enough to benefit from orthodontic treatment.: although this figure decreases to less than 10% according to the same AAO statement when referring to medically necessary orthodontics.
Why is it important to get orthodontic treatment?
If your teeth and/or jaw are misaligned, it’s important to get orthodontic treatment in order to straighten your bite. Whether by traditional braces, Invisalign, or a mouthguard, all orthodontic appliances help straighten teeth or keep them straight.
What is orthodontic care?
Orthodontic care is a complex specialty branch of dentistry that requires additional education beyond general dentistry. If you’re a candidate for orthodontics, you may find that a successful treatment plan improves your self-confidence by improving your beautiful smile.
What do people think of when they hear orthodontics?
Most often, people think of one thing when they hear “orthodontics”: braces. However, both metal braces and clear aligners like Invisalign are just two of the many appliances an orthodontist may create for you.
What happens when teeth don't emerge far enough out of the bone?
Impacted teeth: When teeth don’t emerge far enough out of the bone. Poor aesthetics: When teeth aren’t aesthetically pleasing, it can affect self-confidence and require the need for orthodontic correction. TMJ: Bite problems like one tooth hitting first can cause major pain in the TMJ and lead to chronic TMD.
What is phase 1 and phase 2?
In orthodontics, this process is called Phase 1 and Phase 2 treatment. This kind of early orthodontic intervention is key to the most effective treatment plans. The longer a child waits before having their orthodontic problems corrected, the more difficult (and expensive) the process will become.
What is metal braces?
Utilizing metal wires and brackets, metal braces are fixed appliances that push and pull teeth into their proper position over time. Braces are most effective for incredibly aggressive movements, where a great deal of space must be made.
Why are braces so effective?
Braces are most effective for incredibly aggressive movements, where a great deal of space must be made. Once childhood is over, there is very rarely a justification for metal braces to be used instead of clear aligners, other than the more affordable cost.
How to plan for orthodontic treatment?
Orthodontic treatment planning is based in: 1 defining the characteristics of malocclusion and dentofacial deformity 2 determining the nature and etiology of the orthodontic problem 3 designing a treatment plan based on the specific patient’s needs 4 deciding the orthodontic appliances that will be used to correct the problems 5 estimating the time that will be required for the treatment 6 deciding on the most appropriate age that orthodontic treatment should start.
Why do people need orthodontics?
Even if the malocclusion is not so serious to cause dental problems, orthodontic treatment is recommended for cosmetic reasons to improve the person’s appearance and self esteem . Orthodontic problems are usually more easily corrected if dental braces are placed early after the eruption of permanent teeth up to adolescence.
Why do people go back to the orthodontist for braces?
The positive effects of an orthodontic treatment are so significant in the modern world, that many adults are now going back to the orthodontist for braces in order to correct malocclusion problems.
Why is flossing and brushing teeth so difficult?
Tooth decay and gum disease – brushing and flossing teeth is much more difficult when teeth are crooked, crowded and particularly if they are overlapping. Plaque is easily accumulated in the hard to clean spaces between not properly aligned teeth. Poor oral hygiene due to orthodontic problems can lead to tooth decay and also increases the risk for periodontal (gum) disease and tooth loss. Straight teeth can help in maintaining good oral health as they collect less dental plaque that is easier to clean with regular brushing and flossing.
What is the difference between malocclusion and misalignment?
A mild misalignment of the teeth (malocclusion) causes no medical or functional problems and little cosmetic concern, while a severe malocclusion may cause a number of problems not only functional or health related, but also psychological ones. Cases of severe malocclusion require orthodontic treatment in order to restore proper mouth function, ...
Why do you need orthodontic treatment for malocclusion?
Cases of severe malocclusion require orthodontic treatment in order to restore proper mouth function, improve dental health or even just restore the patient’s self esteem.
When should an orthodontist be consulted?
The orthodontist will evaluate each individual case and decide if and when to start orthodontic treatment or the type of braces to be used, but it is very important that he/she is consulted before the malocclusion problems cause any damage to teeth.
What is an Orthodontist?
An orthodontist is an oral professional who completes 2-3 years of full-time training which specializes in orthodontics after graduating from dental school. Orthodontists are the qualified dentists for correcting bite problems such as Underbite, Overbite, Crossbite and straightening teeth.
Why is Orthodontic Treatment Important?
Orthodontic treatment helps straighten your teeth which in turn makes it a whole lot easier to keep them healthy and clean as well as providing the confidence that a great smile gives. Having overcrowded and crooked teeth can lead to a lot of oral health conditions like tooth decay, gum disease and loss of teeth.
Can Adults Benefit from Orthodontic Treatment?
Of course, adults can benefit from orthodontic treatment as it is not limited to just children anymore. Adults can now also opt to choose from the various treatment options available such as Invisalign or even full treatment. Don’t be under the illusion that you’re too old for orthodontic treatment cause you’re not!
What is Invisalign? Does Invisalign Work as Well as Traditional Braces?
Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment (similar to clear aligners like Smile Direct Club) that is designed to be invisible and aesthetic in which aligner trays which are made up of smooth, comfortable plastic which is worn over your teeth to gently move your teeth into their intended positions.
Orthodontic Treatment
Orthodontics works as a specialized branch of dentistry, providing treatment for malocclusion, which is known to be a condition where an individual’s teeth do not lie in the correct position whenever the mouth is closed. Even facial or jaw irregularities can be perfectly resolved by simply booking an appointment with an orthodontist.
Different Treatments Available Under Orthodontics
A crooked or uneven set of teeth is a problem that a majority of people face in their lives. The crooked teeth work as a means of discomfort for people and block them from smiling openly with their friends or other known ones. So an orthodontist can work perfectly for this purpose and provide you with possible treatment using braces on your teeth.
Final Thoughts
An orthodontist can serve you in multiple ways, all related to oral problems. To get a promising outcome of your treatment, you are suggested to go for the best orthodontist in your area. It would cost you a little more, but it can indeed provide you with the ideal treatment and make sure that you don’t suffer from any part of it in the future.
What is the most common orthodontic treatment?
Although the most common orthodontic treatment remains the dental braces, orthodontists today can offer several different types as alternatives to the classic metal braces.
How many stages of orthodontic treatment are there?
Generally, there are two or three stages of orthodontic treatment. The corrective phase of an orthodontic treatment usually includes just the comprehensive stage of treatment. But several problems may be treated better and faster if an interceptive treatment stage precedes that. In this case it is what orthodontists call a two-phase treatment.
What is the treatment for jaw and tooth abnormalities?
Surgical orthodontic treatment. Surgical orthodontics treat jaw and tooth abnormalities that could not be treated by conventional orthodontic treatments. Jaw surgery (or orthognathic surgery) is needed in some difficult cases, especially in the treatment of adult patients when the jaw bones are fully developed.
What is the treatment for misaligned teeth?
In most cases the treatment of misaligned teeth involves dental braces, but a number of other orthodontic appliances, such as palate expanders or headgear, ...
What are the problems that require jaw surgery?
The problems that might require a jaw surgery are usually a protruding or recessed upper jaw or a protruding or recessed lower jaw. Surgical orthodontic procedures are performed by an oral surgeon in co-ordination with the treatment plan of the orthodontist.
How old do you have to be to get malocclusion?
It may start either with a primary dentition (5-6 years), a mixed dentition (7-12 years) or a permanent one.
Can you afford orthodontics?
The cost of orthodontic treatment can be significant and many patients may not afford it if they are not covered by their dental insurance. Learn how to choose a dental insurance plan that will provide the best dental treatment to you and your family. Learn how to get the best coverage. from your dental insurance: ...
