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?
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.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces function like traditional braces but use tooth-colored ceramic brackets instead of metal ones, making them less noticeable. Some designs also feature tooth-colored wires for added discretion. This makes ceramic braces a great option for patients who want to straighten their teeth while maintaining a more natural and aesthetic appearance.
Lingual Braces
Lingual braces are the same as traditional braces, but they have 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.
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.
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.
Retainers
Braces complete the first stage of orthodontic treatment by gradually moving teeth into their ideal position. Retainers are essential for the second stage, as they help maintain the results by keeping teeth in place. Typically worn overnight and removed during the day, retainers prevent teeth from shifting back to their original positions.
Jaw Repositioning Appliances
Mandibular repositioning devices, also known as jaw repositioning devices, are used to treat sleep apnea. These orthodontic appliances gently push the lower jaw and tongue forward, helping to widen the airway and improve airflow. This reduces breathing obstructions and promotes easier, uninterrupted sleep.
Space Maintainers
Space maintainers are orthodontic appliances used in children to preserve the gap left by a prematurely lost primary tooth. They ensure that the permanent tooth erupts in the correct position and alignment while preventing adjacent teeth from shifting into the space, which could lead to orthodontic issues.
Headgear
Orthodontic headgear is a device 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 Samir T. Ayoub Dental Corporation, 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.
