Orthodontics or orthodontia is a branch of dentistry that focuses on the diagnosis, prevention, and correction of incorrectly positioned teeth and jaws. It is necessary to treat crooked or malpositioned teeth because they are harder to maintain and more susceptible to decay and periodontal diseases. They also cause unnecessary stress on the jaw and chewing muscles, which results in migraines, TMJ syndrome, and back pain. Malpositioned teeth and jaws also impair the aesthetic appeal of the facial contour. Orthodontics treats these issues and helps one achieve a healthier mouth and a more delightful appearance. If you are suffering from any of the following, you can benefit from orthodontic treatment:
- Overbite
- Underbite
- Crossbite
- Openbite
- Misplaced midline
- Spacing between teeth
- Crowding due to too many teeth or a small dental ridge
What are the various orthodontic devices?
1. Traditional braces
Traditional braces use metallic wires and brackets to realign teeth and push them into their ideal position. Square metal brackets are cemented to the topical surface of teeth and are connected with metal wires. The metal brackets and wires together apply calculated amounts of pressure on teeth and shift them to their ideal position. Traditional braces are the most popularly used orthodontic appliances and can treat mild to severe orthodontic issues.
2. Ceramic braces
Ceramic braces are the same as traditional braces but instead of using metal brackets, they use ceramic brackets. Ceramic is tooth-colored and less noticeable. Some ceramic braces even use tooth-colored wires to be even less noticeable. Ceramic braces allow patients to straighten their teeth without compromising with the aesthetics of their mouth.
3. Lingual braces
Lingual braces are the same as traditional braces but they have the metal brackets and wires placed on the inside surface of teeth. So, they are invisible from the outside. Like traditional braces, the square metal brackets are cemented to the surface of teeth and are connected with metal wires. The metal brackets and wires together apply calculated amounts of pressure on teeth and shift them to their ideal position. Lingual braces are used when a patient is conscious of his appearance and does not want to receive a noticeable treatment.
4. Invisalign
Invisalign uses custom-designed clear aligners to straighten teeth. It has become popular among people seeking a cosmetic alternative for traditional metal braces. Invisalign uses state of the art technology to design virtually invisible aligners that apply a calculated amount of force to push teeth to their ideal position. Invisalign aligners are removable in nature and can be removed while eating and brushing.
5. Damon braces
Unlike traditional braces that use brackets that need to be tightened and adjusted regularly, Damon braces are self-ligating. They use a slide mechanism that allows the braces to move naturally with the teeth as they realign.
6. Retainers
Braces complete the first stage of orthodontic treatment, which is to push teeth to their ideal position. Retainers are required to complete the second stage of orthodontic treatment, which is to hold teeth in their new position. They are worn overnight and removed during the day.
7. Jaw repositioning appliances
Mandibular repositioning devices or jaw repositioning devices are used to treat sleep apnea. This orthodontic device repositions the tongue and jaw by pushing them forward. It helps in widening the airway and improves the airflow to ease breathing while sleeping.
8. Space maintainers
Space maintainers are orthodontic appliances used by children to keep the space or gap open when a primary tooth falls out prematurely. Space maintainers are installed in the gap left by the primary tooth in order to allow the permanent tooth to erupt at the correct position and with proper alignment. They also prevent the adjacent teeth from drifting into the gap and causing orthodontic problems.
9. Headgear
Orthodontic headgear is used to treat severe orthodontic problems that require altering the alignment of the jaw. It is attached to the patient's head via straps that go around the neck or head. It transfers force to the dental braces via a hook in order to help in correcting severe malocclusion and retention of teeth and jaws.
At Ayoub Dental we employ the practices of modern dentistry to systematically repair damage and enhance the appearance of your smile. We design a custom plan for each patient to meet their individual requirements. For further doubts and queries, book an appointment with us or visit our office today.
