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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. Why should I have orthodontic treatment? Many people have crowded or crooked teeth.
What to expect from orthodontic treatment?
Feb 16, 2022 · Orthodontics is the dentistry branch that addresses the diagnosis, prevention, interception, guidance, and correction of bad bites or dental irregularities, including the use of braces. A specialist known as an orthodontist is the right person to consult for your orthodontic treatment. These specialists attend two or more additional years of education after four years …
How long should orthodontic treatment take?
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.
How much does an orthodontic treatment cost?
Mar 31, 2021 · 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.
What age should you start orthodontic treatment?
Comprehensive 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 the goal of orthodontics?
The goal is to realign their teeth and create a new, beautiful smile over time.
What are the different types of orthodontic appliances?
Today, there are many different types of orthodontic appliances available for children and adults, including: 1 Braces or clear aligners, which are sometimes called "invisible braces" 2 Headgear (used in combination with braces) 3 Fixed or removable space maintainers 4 Permanent or removable retainers, depending on your preference and needs 5 Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) splints and other jaw repositioning appliances for children with jaw irregularities 6 Jaw surgery, also called orthognathic surgery
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.
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.
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:
What is the most common type of malocclusion?
Class I Malocclusion. The most common type of malocclusion is a class I. It involves some overlap of the upper teeth over the lowers. In a perfect bite, the upper teeth should fit over the lower teeth like a lid on a box.
How long do you wear braces?
Tightening the archwires puts pressure on your teeth, slowly moving them towards their target position. Braces are usually adjusted monthly and are worn for a few months to a few years.
What are the best ways to treat TMJ?
Jaw repositioning appliances – These appliances are also known as splints. They're placed either on the top or lower jaw and are used to treat TMJ disorders by training the jaw to close in a better position. Lip and cheek bumpers – Your lip and cheek muscles might exert pressure on your teeth.
What are fixed appliances?
Fixed appliances include: Braces – You've most likely heard of braces – they're the most common fixed appliance. They consist of bands, wires, and brackets.
Can straightening teeth cause tooth decay?
You might think that straightening your teeth only has aesthetic benefits, but that couldn't be farther from the truth. Crooked teeth can be harder to clean, which can lead to tooth decay or periodontal disease. Teeth that don't fit correctly can make it harder to chew, leading to headaches, shoulder or back pain, and even temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
What are removable appliances?
Removable appliances include: Aligners – These are increasingly becoming a popular alternative to traditional braces for adults. Aligners move teeth in the same way as braces, but they are virtually invisible and don't involve metal wires and brackets.
What is a palatal expander?
Palatal expander – This device is a plastic plate that fits over the roof of the mouth. It's used when the arch of your upper jaw needs to be widened. Removable retainers – These devices, worn on the roof of the mouth, prevent your teeth from shifting back to their previous position.
What is it called when you bite your teeth?
Open bite – Some people have a vertical gap between the front lower and upper teeth when biting down. This is called an open bite. Misplaced midline — Here, the center of your upper and lower front teeth don't line up. Spacing — In this case, your teeth don't seem to fill up your mouth.
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.
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.
Why do people struggle with braces?
One of the major reasons people struggle with braces, for instance, is that they make it more difficult to avoid plaque buildup.
When was the first orthodontic school founded?
Etruscans, Romans, and French history all show record of primitive types of orthodontic treatment. In 1901, the first orthodontics school was founded after decades of experimental treatments.
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 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 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 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.
What is an orthodontic evaluation?
Orthodontic evaluation is done by orthodontists, dentists who have special training in the diagnosis and treatment of malocclusions (teeth misalignments). During the initial orthodontic evaluation the orthodontist first makes a visual inspection of teeth and mouth. Learn how to find an orthodontist.
How to tell if your child has orthodontic problems?
Parents should pay attention for any signs and symptoms that might indicate the existence of an orthodontic problem. Children with some type of malocclusion problem (teeth misalignment) usually have some of the following symptoms: 1 Crowded, crooked, misplaced or abnormally aligned teeth 2 Teeth that meet abnormally or not at all with the teeth of the other jaw 3 Difficulty in chewing food or biting 4 Mouth breathing 5 Biting the cheek or roof of the mouth 6 Speech difficulties, trouble saying certain words. 7 Pain in the facial muscles or jaws that shift or make sounds 8 Abnormal appearance of the face
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:
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 are the symptoms of malocclusion?
Children with some type of malocclusion problem (teeth misalignment) usually have some of the following symptoms: Crowded, crooked, misplaced or abnormally aligned teeth.
Why are straight teeth important?
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. Injury to the gums – in some severe cases of overlapping teeth, a misaligned tooth may reach to the gums of the opposing jaw and cause soft tissue injury.
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.
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.
What is surgical orthodontics?
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. 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.
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, ...
Why do teeth need to be extracted?
One or more permanent teeth might have to be extracted to create enough space for the rest of the teeth. Until some decades ago, tooth extraction was the only solution for the treatment of teeth crowding problems.
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.
What is the corrective phase 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. After the corrective stage, orthodontists recommend a retention stage ...
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: ...
