Having Gaps, Crooked or Misaligned Teeth? An Orthodontic Treatment is the Solution! 

What is orthodontic treatment? 

Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that treats misaligned teeth. Orthodontics treatment is used, for straightening or moving teeth, to improve the appearance of the teeth with the use of devices to move teeth or adjust underlying bone. It also helps to ensure your teeth, gums, and jaw joints’ long-term health by spreading the biting pressure over all your teeth. 

The ideal age for starting orthodontic treatment is between the age group of 8 to 14 years.  

Who needs an Orthodontic Treatment? 

We often see people with misaligned teeth that not only hampers the appearance aspect but also, in the long run, becomes the root of dental complications such as an improper bite, hampering the health of gums and jaw joints, etc. Such dental misalignments could be- 

Crowded or crooked teeth 
Upper front teeth that stick out  
The way the upper and lower jaws meet  
Closing wide gaps between the teeth 
Improving speech or chewing ability 
Preventing long-term excessive wear or trauma of the teeth 
Impacted teeth 
Asymmetrical teeth 
Deep bite, or overbite 
Reverse bite 
Open bite 
Underbite 
Crossbite 
Who does the Orthodontic treatment?

An orthodontist specializes in dealing with the bite and straightness of teeth. One should check with their chosen professional about the pros and cons of the orthodontal treatment before going ahead. 

5 types of devices used in Orthodontic treatments?

The types of devices used in an orthodontic treatment vary according to the purpose that has to be served.

Braces 
These are a type of Fixed Appliances in orthodontic treatment. These are the most common devices used in orthodontics and are used when precision is important. These consist of brackets, bands, and wires.  

Bands: These are firmly fixed around the teeth and serve as anchors. 

Brackets- Brackets are connected to the front of the teeth 

Wires: These are passed through the brackets and are fixed to the bands. As this is tightened over time, this directs the teeth into their proper position. 

Fixed-space maintainers  
If a baby tends to lose a tooth, a Fixed-space maintainer stops the two neighbouring teeth from moving into space until the adult tooth comes through. 

Headgears 
The strap is attached around the back of the head to a metal wire in the front. It is used is to slow down upper jaw growth. 

Lip and Cheek Bumpers 
These are made specially to relieve the pressure of cheeks or lips onto the teeth. 

Aligners 
This is an alternative to braces and is useful for adults as these tend to be unnoticeable and can be removed to brush the teeth, floss, or eat.  

How to care for your teeth during an Orthodontic treatment? 

More than getting the orthodontic treatment done, it is important to keep your teeth taken care of while having orthodontic treatment. Extra care of your teeth and mouth needs to be a necessary step to ensure a successful treatment: 

Cleaning your teeth carefully daily. Braces are highly delicate, and it needs to be made sure that you clean them carefully so that they do not break.  
Cutting down on sugary foods and drinks. As sticky and hard foods may damage the braces. 
Brush your teeth twice a day daily and compulsorily post your dinner. Use an antibacterial mouthwash once a day and floss your teeth regularly. 
Eating a healthy and well-balanced light diet. 
Final Note

Orthodontics is a very crucial specialization of dentistry that helps one get that aesthetically beautiful smile. There are plenty of Orthodontic treatments available, but whatever the device or treatment be, it is crucial to follow oral hygiene guidelines with care to ensure the best outcome.