How Do Orthodontists Straighten Crooked Teeth?
Orthodontics is one of the speciality branches of dentistry; they correct misaligned teeth and jaws. A misaligned tooth can be attributed to genetics, thumb sucking, or even an early loss of baby teeth. The great news is that a board-certified orthodontist is very skilled in correcting such imperfections to enhance a smile's functions and aesthetics. But how do they do it? Here's an overview of how they do it:
1. Braces: The Conventional Treatment
The traditional and most common form of treatment for crooked teeth is metal braces. Braces consist of brackets, wires, and rubber bands that work in concert to slowly shift the teeth into proper alignment. The brackets are bonded with dental cement to the teeth, and the wire goes through the brackets. The wire is tightened periodically, putting gentle pressure on the teeth that makes them move. Braces are especially excellent for very bad cases of crooked teeth or malocclusion. They also work best for other dental conditions like overcrowding, spacing between the teeth, and bite problems, including overbites and underbites.
2. Clear Aligners: Sneaky Solution
In recent years, clear aligners have become a widespread substitute for traditional braces. Brands such as Invisalign provide a more discreet method of straightening teeth. These aligners are made to accommodate teeth and move them into the proper position over a period of time. Because they are made of clear plastic, they appear almost invisible, making them an easy choice for individuals who find wearing braces objectionable in appearance.
Clear aligners can be removed for eating, drinking, and brushing, making them more convenient and easier to maintain than braces. However, they are not suitable for all patients, especially those with complex dental conditions.
3. Retainers: Results Maintenance
Retainers are often the final step in the orthodontic process of using braces or clear aligners to straighten teeth. These are custom-made devices that keep the teeth in their new positions. They are usually worn for a period after treatment, and sometimes, a permanent retainer is bonded to the back of the teeth to prevent shifting.
These retainers would ensure that the result obtained from orthodontic treatment is long-term. Without these retainers, the teeth might slowly regain their original position.
4. Palatal Expanders: Expansion of the Upper Jaw
To help patients whose narrow upper jaw contributes to crooked teeth, the orthodontist can install a palatal expander on the roof of the mouth. The appliance gradually enlarges the upper jaw for several months. By having more room in the jaw, the teeth are spaced out properly, eliminating crowding and improving the patient's bite. Palatal expanders are very common in treating young patients whose jaws are still in their developmental stages. However, they can also be applied to adults in specific instances.
5. Surgical Orthodontics: For Severe Cases
Orthodontists may collaborate with oral surgeons to perform surgical orthodontics when jaw misalignment or crooked teeth are severe. This method usually applies to adults with severe skeletal issues that cannot be corrected using teeth scanning Humble and orthodontic braces. Surgery can correct the position of the jaw and the teeth, and orthodontic treatment may then be needed to adjust the teeth's alignment.
Conclusion
Orthodontic treatment, though complex, may involve more than one treatment option, such as traditional braces, clear aligners, retainers, and, in some cases, jaw surgery. The actual treatment plan can only be determined by the severity of misalignment and a patient's needs. Thus, close work with an experienced orthodontist guarantees that patients receive the best possible outcome regarding function and aesthetics for a healthy, confident smile.
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