Orthodontics deals with the treatment of malocclusions. It is estimated that these abnormalities affect approximately 50% of the population. Treatment covers both adults and children. The process of correcting a condition can take many forms. Find out what exactly orthodontics is, when to decide on treatment and what pediatric orthodontics involves. The article also presents the types of orthodontic appliances available at Denti-Med.
Orthodontics – what is it?
Orthodontics is a field of dentistry that deals with the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of malocclusions and maxillofacial defects. It also includes examination of changes occurring in the masticatory system. This applies to both adults and children.
Orthodontists treat congenital defects, such as incorrect positioning or too many teeth. Dentists also eliminate acquired defects, which include, among others: jaw narrowing, underbite and overbite.
When to decide on orthodontic treatment?
Orthodontic treatment is performed for medical as well as aesthetic reasons. The indications include:
- visible malocclusion,
- periodontitis,
- speech defects,
- headaches and jaw pain,
- gap between teeth,
- teeth that do not fit in the jaw.
Orthodontics – course of treatment
Before malocclusion correction can begin, a successful inspection must be completed. If the teeth require conservative treatment, it should be done before the braces are placed.
When the condition of the teeth is impeccable, the doctor conducts an interview to determine the cause of the malocclusion and its type. Then the orthodontist performs an intraoral scan and sometimes orders additional tests.
The next step is for the doctor to prepare an individual treatment plan. At this stage, he advises you to choose a specific orthodontic appliance. It also presents the planned treatment time and its costs.
Before installing fixed orthodontic appliances, doctors often apply special rubber bands to spread the compressed teeth apart. During the next visit, the orthodontist prepares the tooth surface. To do this, he cleans them thoroughly so that he can then put on the braces.
Orthodontics in children
Orthodontic treatment for children can be started around the age of seven. In younger people, doctors recommend using certain exercises or removable braces. For older children, permanent braces are usually used.
However, not everyone knows when to make an appointment for their child to see a doctor. One of the symptoms that should prompt parents to make an appointment with an orthodontist is an excessively retracted or protruding jaw. The reason for visiting the dentist may also be the child’s facial asymmetry, speech defect, tongue dysfunction, too rapid loss of milk teeth and many others.
If you are concerned about your child’s symptoms, make an appointment with your doctor to make sure everything is OK.
Types of orthodontic appliances at Denti-Med
As part of orthodontic treatment at Denti-Med, we offer, among others: removable braces, invisible orthodontic overlays and retention overlays.
Removable braces
Removable braces correct minor malocclusions. Patients value them very much because they can be easily removed and put on. In addition to treating bite irregularities, they are also used to maintain the effect obtained in previous treatment.
Invisalign aligners
Another method for treating malocclusions are orthodontic overlays. It is an alternative to permanent dental braces. They are usually used to correct minor defects. Patients often choose them because they can be removed at any time.
Retention caps
Retention aligners are also called retainers. It is usually used after bite treatment with fixed dental braces has been completed. Its purpose is to consolidate the previously obtained effect.