Orthodontics

Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that deals with problems relating to your ‘bite’ or ‘malocclusion’. If you find that you have crooked or misaligned teeth; or that there are too many teeth in your jaw (overcrowding) then you will need some form of corrective device known as a brace.

This can also form part of a ‘smile makeover’.

If you have temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJD) then you may require oral surgery as well as a brace. Your orthodontist will discuss this further with you.

There are many different types of braces which include Invisalign, Damon, Lingual and ‘Six Month Braces’.

You may think of braces as those ugly looking wire-metal devices worn only by children and teenagers. However, technology has moved on and the more modern types of braces are both comfortable and visually appealing. For example, there is an innovative form of brace called ‘invisible braces’ or ‘Invisalign’ which is a transparent type of brace that is comfortable to wear and unobtrusive. Often known as ‘clear braces’.

To learn more visit our Invisalign braces section.

And, braces are increasingly worn by adults as well as young people. If you are an adult who has put up with crooked teeth or have problem with your ‘bite’ (the opening and closing action of your jaws) then a brace can help. However, it is still the case that this type of treatment is most effective for children rather than adults.

Why? The teeth are still growing in a child or pre-teen which makes them more responsive to this treatment as compared to an adult. But, adults can still benefit from having a brace fitted although the corrective process takes longer than that for a child.

If you have any problems with your ‘bite’, have crooked or misshapen teeth or find it difficult to chew your food then you probably require orthodontic treatment. As this is a specialised form of dentistry your local dentist will refer you to an orthodontist for diagnosis and a treatment plan.

What is a ‘Damon brace?’ What are ‘6 month smiles?’ What does the treatment involve? These are just a few of the many questions patients have about orthodontics.

What is an orthodontist?

An orthodontist is a specialist type of dentist who treats irregularities of the teeth in order to improve their appearance. If you have misaligned teeth, overcrowding (too many teeth) or a poorly functioning jaw then orthodontic treatment can help.

Your own local dentist will be the first one to notice any problems with your ‘bite’ or teeth alignment and will then refer you to an orthodontist.

Learn more about orthodontics….

Orthodontics Index:

COSMETIC DENTISTRY

Medic8® Guides

© Medic8® | All Rights Reserved
We have updated our cookie policy to reflect new guidelines. I agree I want to learn more