Orthodontics is a branch of dental specialty concerned with the status of teeth and face and their correction when necessary. Orthodontics is one of the specialized branches of dentistry with the main concentration on the treatment of malocclusion and abnormal occlusion, as well as the need for aesthetic and functional dental corrections. This general introduction to orthodontics will present information about the different kinds of treatment, the advantages of having them, and some recommendations for the right dental care.
Understanding Orthodontics
Different procedures fall under the branch of dentistry referred to as orthodontics, which mainly focuses on solving cases like crowded teeth, misaligned teeth, bite problems like overbite and underbite, and physical abnormalities in the jaw. These treatments enhance the aesthetics of a smile but at the same time aid substantially in maintaining oral health. Problems you may face when you have misaligned teeth include tooth decay, gum diseases, and chewing difficulties.
Types of Orthodontic Treatments
Traditional Braces
Brackets and bands are the most familiar types of orthodontic treatment procedures. They are dental appliances made of metal brackets and wires that help to align and adjust teeth progressively. Braces, as you know, are useful in the treatment of severe misalignment and other complicated dental cases. They need frequent repositioning by an orthodontist to enable gradual handling.
Invisalign
Invisalign is thus an effective orthodontic procedure that is preferred by many people, especially adults and teens, due to the Invisalign clear aligners that do not resemble conventional braces. It is a powerful technique that employs fully clear, customized, removable plastic trays, popularly known as aligners. These aligners are replaced about once in two weeks, but as this process continues the teeth move to the desired positions. The system is virtually unnoticed, making it very suitable for those who would rather not wear conventional braces. In the same perspective, the aligners can be removed such as when eating and when cleaning the mouth; thus, they are more convenient and comfortable to use.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces are similar to regular braces in that they work beneath the tooth’s biting surface; however, they are fixed on the tongue side of the teeth. Such braces are ideal for people who wish to have their orthodontic treatment done without people noting the presence of a brace on their teeth; however, they are difficult to clean and not easily adjusted as regular braces.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces are similar to regular metal braces, but the brackets are clear or tooth-colored, thus almost invisible. Unlike metal braces, ceramic braces do not easily stand out, but they may be more delicate and may also need special care when brushing the teeth.
Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment
Self-esteem is boosted since people feel more comfortable smiling when their teeth are straight. Misaligned teeth make it hard to clean them, exposing them to tooth decay and gum diseases. Teeth alignment improves self-esteem and the appearance of the face and mouth. Correct positioning of the teeth and jaws enhances the activities that involve forces of bite, chew, and speech. Orthodontic treatments have a great prophylactic effect for the future, so it is better to solve orthodontic problems at a young age to avoid spending more money on serious treatment in the future.
