Orthodontic treatment is a specialized branch of dentistry focused on diagnosing, preventing, and correcting misaligned teeth and jaws. The goal is twofold: to create a beautiful, straight smile and, more importantly, to ensure optimal oral health and function for the long term.
What Problems Does Orthodontics Fix?
Orthodontists address a variety of issues, known as “malocclusions” or “bad bites,” including:
Crooked or Crowded Teeth: Teeth that overlap or are rotated.
Gaps and Spacing: Unwanted spaces between teeth.
Bite Problems:
Overbite: When the upper front teeth overlap significantly over the lower teeth.
Underbite: When the lower jaw protrudes forward, causing the lower teeth to sit in front of the upper teeth.
Crossbite: When some upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth when biting down.
What Are the Treatment Options?
Traditional Metal Braces: The most common and effective type. They consist of high-grade stainless steel brackets bonded to the teeth and connected by a wire. The wire is periodically tightened to apply gentle pressure that gradually moves teeth into alignment.
Clear Aligners (e.g., Invisalign): A popular, nearly invisible alternative for teens and adults. These are a series of custom-made, removable plastic trays that are worn over the teeth and changed every one to two weeks to progressively shift teeth.
Other Appliances: In some cases, additional devices like palatal expanders, headgear, or retainers may be used to correct jaw growth or maintain results.
Benefits Beyond a Beautiful Smile
While a straighter smile is a fantastic result, the health benefits are significant:
Easier Cleaning: Straight teeth are easier to brush and floss, drastically reducing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
Improved Function: Correcting your bite enhances your ability to chew and speak properly.
Prevention of Abnormal Wear: A proper bite prevents certain teeth from wearing down prematurely.
Jaw Joint Health: It can alleviate or prevent strain on the jaw joints and muscles, reducing the risk of pain and TMJ disorders.
What to Expect: Duration and Care
Treatment Time: The length of treatment varies for everyone, depending on the case’s complexity. On average, most treatments last between 18 and 36 months.
The Importance of Retainers: After active treatment, wearing a retainer is mandatory for life to prevent teeth from shifting back to their original positions.
Commitment is Key: Success requires excellent oral hygiene throughout treatment and attending all scheduled adjustment appointments.
Investing in orthodontic treatment is an investment in your long-term health, function, and confidence.
Dr. Fatemeh Teimoori is a distinguished orthodontist based in Isfahan, Iran, specializing in orthodontics and craniofacial anomalies. Born in 1983, […]
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