Orthodontics

ORTHODONTICS

Definition

• Orthodontics is a specialty of dentistry that is concerned with the study and treatment of malocclusions (improper bites), which may be a result of tooth irregularity, disproportionate jaw improved bite (occlusion).

Diagnosis and treatment planning

• In diagnosis and treatment planning, the orthodontist must:
• recognize the various characteristics of malocclusion and dentofacial deformity;
• define the nature of the problem, including the etiology if possible;
• design a treatment strategy based on the specific needs and desires of the individual;
• present the treatment strategy to the patient in such a way that the patient fully understands the ramifications of his/her decision.

Therapy

• Therapy can be:
• Functional: indicated to reduce and eliminate any possible problems, using muscular exercises and/or passive orthodontic devices, which guide mastication forces;
• Mechanical: when extra/intraoral devices are used, to correct the present anomalies
• Surgical: indicated especially in adults and/or when orthodontic methods can’t fix the problems

• 2. Why is it important to have orthodontic treatment?
• Orthodontic problems can disfigure the face and mouth.
• Orthodontics can improve the appearance of the teeth and face.
• Normal speech and chewing can be made possible by orthodontic treatment.
• A bad bite can make biting or chewing difficult or even impossible, and can cause the teeth to wear down.
• Crooked teeth are very hard to brush properly.
• If teeth are not kept clean, this can result in tooth decay, and loss of teeth.
• Orthodontic problems can damage the gums and underlying bone structure.
• If the jaws are not properly positioned, pain in the jaw joints can result.
• Orthodontic problems can get worse if they are neglected. They will not just "go away".
• If not treated in time, a problem can become more difficult and more expensive to treat later on.

• 4. Why should orthodontic treatment start when the child is young?
• There are many good reasons for early orthodontic treatment:
• When the jaws and teeth are still growing it is much easier to move teeth and influence the position and size of the jaw.
• Early treatment will shorten the treatment time.
• Treatment of thumb-sucking and abnormal swallowing patterns is more successful in a young child.
• Protruding front teeth are easily damaged, so the sooner they are corrected the better.
• The space left by the early loss of a baby tooth must be kept open. If left untreated, this space will close, as adjacent teeth will drift into it. The permanent tooth may then not have enough space to grow into and may become impacted. Early treatment can keep the space open and allow the permanent tooth to erupt normally. Insufficient space for permanent teeth often results in crowding.

• before

• treatment

• treatment

• after

• Crowded and irregular teeth

• Is orthodontic treatment painful?
• When braces or other orthodontic appliances are first placed in the mouth, some discomfort or pain is experienced, but this soon passes.
• Adjustments to appliances may cause temporary pain or discomfort. The appliances may initially irritate the lips, teeth or tongue, but the orthodontist will adjust them to minimise any discomfort.

• How long will the orthodontic treatment take to complete?
• Treatment takes from a few months to about 3 years. The average is about 2 years.
• The length of treatment depends on how difficult and complicated the problem is.
• Some people respond to treatment more quickly than others.
• Co-operation by the patient, or lack of it, can affect the length of treatment.
• Your orthodontist will be able to give you an idea of how long it will take.

• What is the plan of action for the entire treatment period?
• The treatment plan is divided into three parts.
• The planning phase
• The active phase
• The retention phase

• 10. What happens in the planning phase?
• A pre-treatment record is made, which includes:
• A medical and dental history.
• The making of casts for the upper and lower teeth and jaws.
• Photographs of the face and teeth for before and after treatment comparisons.
• A complete set of x-rays of the jaws and teeth.
• A computer-generated photograph of the anticipated result.
• Formulation of the treatment plan.