Orthodontics
Orthodontics is a dental specialty concerned with the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental irregularities such as crooked, crowded or protruding teeth, for which the technical term is ‘Malocclusion’.The practice of orthodontics involves the design, application and control of Braces to treat and correct these problems
Seeing a big,warm smile on your child’s face is one of the most gratifying things about being a mom or dad.But keeping that smile healthy and intact requires care that starts early in life.
All kids as per recommendation of IOS (Indian Orthodontic Society), should get an orthodontic evaluation at 7 yrs of age. It is important to know that at age 7, most children have a mix of adult and baby teeth. Orthodontist can spot problems with jaw growth and emerging teeth that can prevent development of malocclusion if early intervention is done.
For patient with malocclusion there is an ideal time to start orthodontic treatment in order to achieve best results. As the age increases, the jaw bone becomes denser making teeth difficult to move into their correct positions.
Till what age is orthodontic treatment advised?
Age is no bar to start orthodontic treatment. The only thing to keep in mind is that the condition of jaw bone and teeth should be fine.
BRACES
It consists of brackets that are bonded to the teeth into which archwires are inserted and held in place with help of clips or rubber rings. Archwires are changed at regular intervals. The force applied by the wires moves the teeth precisely into the required position.
Until a few years ago the unsightly appearance of metal brackets acted as a deterrent. Now tooth-colored brackets are available which are virtually invisible.
WHY DENTAL BRACES??
Nowadays attractive, straight teeth and a charming smile play an important role socially. They represent youthfulness, increase self-esteem and confidence.
Brace types
- Conventional metal
- Conventional ceramic
- Metal bracket with clip
- Ceramic bracket with metal clip
- Ceramic bracket with a transparent clip
Retainers
They are the appliances that are made to be worn for a minimum period of 1 year for the teeth and jaw bone to get set in the corrected position permanently. They are gradually phased out depending upon patient compliance.
Which one do you want to wear?
Both Hawleys and Essix retainers serve the same function with the difference that Essix is virtually invisible and more comfortable to wear than Hawleys.
