Orthodontics
Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that corrects teeth and jaws that are positioned improperly. Crooked teeth and teeth that do not fit together correctly are harder to keep clean, are at risk of being lost early due to tooth decay and periodontal disease, and cause extra stress on the chewing muscles that can lead to headaches, TMJ syndrome and neck, shoulder and back pain. Teeth that are crooked or not in the right place can also detract from one’s appearance.
The benefits of orthodontic treatment include a healthier mouth, a more pleasing appearance, and teeth that are more likely to last a lifetime
TYPES OF BRACES
TRADITIONAL METAL BRACES
Metal braces have been widely acknowledged for their ability to cure complex bite problems. As a traditional form of orthodontic treatment they continue to be the most effective and preferred solutions by orthodontists. Metal braces have wires and brackets which are designed to apply pressure on teeth and move them in desired direction. Traditional metal braces are successful in treating cross bites, open bites, crowding and other complex orthodontic conditions. An orthodontist studies the position of teeth and plans a treatment accordingly. Gels are used in the process to fix the brackets over teeth and the wires are then fit in the brackets in tension mode. Patients should visit the dentist periodically to check the progress of treatment and reset the wires in tension mode.
INVISALIGN
Invisalign is a system of clear aligners used by orthodontists to straighten teeth. These removable aligners are made of smooth BPA free plastic. They have proven to be one of the finest ways of treating simple orthodontic conditions since the aligners are invisible. It is easy to maintain oral hygiene with these aligners since a patient can remove them when cleaning teeth. The treatment duration may vary from 18 months to 24 months based on the condition. A series of aligners are custom-made for the patient and each pair should be replaced with another after every 2 weeks.
DAMON BRACES
Damon braces have introduced a new method of treating orthodontic problems. Unlike regular metal braces which have elastic ties, Damon braces are passive and self-ligating. They work by applying lighter forces on teeth. Patients do not have to worry about food particles getting attracted to the braces since Damon system eliminates the need for elastic ties. Maintaining oral hygiene is much simple with these revolutionary braces and there are fewer adjustments required during the treatment. With Damon braces patients need not have to get their teeth extracted for orthodontic treatment. The braces work with even the most complex conditions. Both the wires and brackets are designed in such a way that light pressure continuously acts on teeth to move it in place.
