Orthodontics in Dentistry   by Thangam

in Health / Dental Care    (submitted 2012-01-31)

Orthodontics is a specialist branch of dentistry that is concerned with the development and management of irregularities and abnormalities in the teeth and jaws. If you have crooked teeth and/or a misaligned bite, there are a variety of treatments that can help straighten your teeth, including braces and retainers. If the patient decides to proceed with treatment, an appointment with orthodontists is needed to collect records. The record includes the following

 Impressions from which plaster models of the teeth are constructed.
 Photographs of the teeth and face.
 X-rays of the teeth and jaws.

Records allow the orthodontist to analyze each case accurately. They are also used to record the existing malocclusion for future reference. In some cases, a removable retainer will be all that's necessary. In other rare cases especially when there is an extreme overbite or underbite, surgery may be necessary. In most cases, however, braces will be needed.

Generally, there are three types of braces that are Brackets, Traditional bands, Lingual-type brackets

1) Brackets: Made of stainless steel or tooth-colored ceramic or plastic, brackets are bonded to the front of each tooth. Ceramic or plastic brackets are often selected for cosmetic reasons. Plastic brackets may become stained and discolored by the end of treatment. Another disadvantage of ceramic or plastic brackets is that they cause more friction between the wire and brackets, which can increase treatment time.
2) Traditional bands: These are the generally outdated "full metal-mouth" look, which consists of the use of metal brackets soldered to metal bands that wrap around each tooth.
3) Lingual-type brackets: These are brackets that attach to the back of teeth, hiding the bracket from view.

The type of braces you get depends on the following factors:

 The extent of your treatment, such as:
 The severity of your bite or tooth crookedness problems
 If headgear or other special appliances are necessary
 The amount of time you will need to wear braces
 If extractions are necessary
 If jaw surgery is necessary
 The preferences of the orthodontist
 How long you will be in braces to correct your problems

Advantages of braces:

 Straighten teeth
 Correct an irregular bite
 Close unsightly gaps
 Bring teeth and lips into proper alignment
 Better appearance of teeth, smile and face
 Improved self-esteem, confidence, well-being and feeling of acceptance
 A more even bite
 Reduce risk of injury to protruding front teeth
 Improve dental growth in a positive manner
 Correct harmful habits
 Better jaw alignment, proportion and function
 In young children, orthodontic treatment also may guide proper jaw growth and permanent tooth eruption.

Disadvantages of braces:

One major disadvantage of wearing on braces is the discomfort and pain that dental patients usually experience when having braces installed. This is because of the metal frame is usually used when making the brace. It will run through the teeth and produce a sensitivity that will render the teeth prone to dental pain. Other disadvantages are

 Food can get stuck in the brackets.
 Keeping good oral hygiene can be more difficult especially flossing.
 You cannot eat certain foods such as hard candy, tough meats, etc.
 Your teeth may become stained in certain cases from the bracket
 You will have to go to your orthodontist usually once a month for adjustments which can lead to a couple day of minor discomfort. There is pain associated with the adjustments.
 Your lips may get cut up.
 Your physical appearance will be different.

Most of these braces disadvantages are not enough for people to warrant not getting their teeth straightened. Dental braces are a great form of self improvement and help build confidence.

About the Author

Thangam's Dental Clinic is a modern state of art specialty Dental clinic situated in the heart of Chennai offering a personalized, comfortable, relaxing but clinical environment. Thangam's provides up to date, quality care for patients from across the Globe using high-tech equipment. For more details visit us: http://www.thangamsdentalclinic.org