Orthodontic dental treatment deals with problems linked to improperly positioned teeth, jaws.
Overbite, underbite, crossbite, open bite, misplaced midline, crowding, and spacing related issues need this treatment. These dental issues, especially crooked teeth, can result in stress on the chewing muscles if left untreated. Such misalignment can cause serious oral health problems like TMJ syndrome, headache, neck, and back pain. Thus, orthodontic treatment plays a crucial role in improving the appearance of the teeth and getting oral health back on track. Dental care experts who have a specialization in these procedures are referred to as an orthodontist.
The concerned treatment is recommended after a proper oral check-up and examining the position of teeth structure with the help of x-rays. The treatment type depends on the position, misalignment of the affected tooth. Dental care experts assess the dental structure and create a plan to get the teeth back in place. Orthodontic treatment does not mean just ‘metal braces’ anymore.
Removable space maintainers, lip and cheek bumpers, lingual braces, jaw repositioning appliances, and headgear are other appliances that are used for various orthodontic procedures. The devices used as a part of the process are available in metal, plastic, or the form of brackets.
When it comes to the most preferred option, ceramic braces are commonly used as a part of orthodontic treatment. It involves brackets and metal wires.
Brackets are connected to the back of the teeth and interconnected with wires. These wires are tightened every month to put mild pressure on the teeth via brackets. It helps in slowly changing the position of the affected teeth. Wires and brackets match the enamel color. Braces, brackets are smaller and lighter compared to those used a decade back.
The dentist can recommend extraction of tooth or drilling/removing infected parts of the same as a part of the process. The patient may need to wear these braces for a period of 18 to 30 months, depending on the misalignment. Then, braces need to be replaced with a transparent retainer.
As the process involves putting mild pressure on the teeth to bring them in the right position, the patient may feel a little bit of discomfort during the initial stages.
After removing braces, the patient needs to wear retainers for at least 12 months. The period happens to be the last phase of orthodontic treatment. Removable retainers’ help in ensuring the teeth remain in their new position during the sensitive period. Patients are advised to wear them for 12 hours daily.
The patient should not skip the monthly check-up as the wires in the braces might require adjustments. The usual brushing and flossing routine should be followed during the treatment. The orthodontist’s dietary advice should not be ignored.
Is there any alternative to wearing braces?
Another popular option is the use of Invisalign clear aligners. These are removable custom plastic trays that the patient needs to wear for at least 18 hours each day. A 3-D image of the dental structure is used for creating these trays to ensure they fit perfectly. The option proves to be nothing less than to be an absolute joy for patients who wish to avoid metals.
Invisalign based treatment is not recommended for complex dental issues. It is easy to remove them before eating or sleeping. But it is simply not ideal for individuals who lack self-discipline. Patients often forget to wear them back. Straightening occurs slowly, and the process gets delayed. Braces, on the other hand, are irremovable. So, there won’t be a need to worry about losing, misplacing them like in the case of clear trays.
Case studies have proved that Invisalign treatment requires a few months more to correct the misalignment compared to the traditional process.
What’s the best age to get braces?
What’s the best age for teeth braces? Can you get braces at any age? These two questions concerning orthodontic treatment attract a lot of attention.
Ideally, patients from all age groups can opt for this treatment to gain confidence by improving their facial appearance. However, experts suggest, the ideal age for orthodontic treatment is between 10 and 14 years of age. The mouth as well as the head witness growth during this period. Thus the time-frame proves perfect for teeth straightening. But some children do not appreciate braces and the resulting adjustments during the sensitive years. So, parents let them enter adulthood, and then undergo the procedure to improve their smile. Some individuals even opt for braces after 30, once they are settled in their life.
Why do people dislike braces? Are there ways to overcome metal related issues?
Some individuals think smiling, talking, chewing can be embarrassing with braces in the mouth. However, the brackets and wires can be fitted on the back of the teeth to take care of the appearance factor.
Patients can also opt for ceramic braces. These are tooth-colored and remain less noticeable compared to their metal counterparts and wires.
Remember, there’s no appropriate age for braces for adults, anytime can be the best time to get braces.
Are you searching for a reputed dental office that specializes in orthodontic dental treatments in Roswell (GA)? TruCare Dentistry can help you with the best possible treatment options.