orthodontics
What is orthodontics?
Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that focuses on diagnosing and treating “bad bites” (malocclusion). Common orthodontic treatments include braces, clear aligners and retainers.
The way your teeth fit together has a significant impact on your oral health. By improving the way your upper and lower teeth meet, you can reduce your risk for a host of oral health issues, including cavities, gum disease and excessive
What is Orthodontics?
Orthodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry that focuses on diagnosing, preventing, and treating dental and facial irregularities, commonly known as "bad bites" or malocclusion. This field primarily aims to correct the alignment of teeth and jaws, which can significantly impact both the function and aesthetics of a person’s smile.
Orthodontic treatments include a variety of appliances designed to straighten teeth, correct bite issues, and enhance overall dental health. These appliances include traditional metal braces, clear aligners (such as Invisalign), and retainers. Each of these treatments works by applying controlled forces to the teeth and jaws, gradually moving them into their proper positions.
The alignment of your teeth and the way your upper and lower teeth fit together (occlusion) are crucial for maintaining oral health. Proper alignment can reduce the risk of numerous dental issues, including cavities, gum disease, and excessive wear on the teeth. Furthermore, well-aligned teeth are easier to clean and maintain, promoting better overall dental hygiene.
Beyond functional improvements, orthodontic treatments also offer significant aesthetic benefits. A well-aligned smile can boost your self-esteem and confidence. Additionally, correcting alignment issues can improve speech and chewing efficiency, contributing to better overall health and well-being.
Orthodontics is not just for children and teenagers; many adults also seek orthodontic treatment to correct long-standing dental issues or to enhance their appearance. With advancements in orthodontic technology, there are now more discreet and comfortable options available for patients of all ages.
At Highlight Clinic, our expert orthodontic team is dedicated to providing personalized care tailored to each patient’s unique needs. Whether you require minor adjustments or comprehensive treatment, we are committed to helping you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile.
Who Offers Orthodontic Treatment?
In most cases, orthodontists perform this type of treatment. An orthodontist is a dental specialist who has completed additional training (typically two to three years) after graduating from dental school. This specialized training focuses on diagnosing and treating dental and facial irregularities. Orthodontists concentrate on improving your bite and aligning your teeth and jaws. Unlike general dentists, they do not perform routine dental procedures like fillings, crowns, or bridges. At Highlight Clinic, our orthodontists are highly trained professionals dedicated to providing the best possible care for our patients.
When Should I Take My Child to the Orthodontist?
According to the American Association of Orthodontists, children should have their first orthodontic visit by the age of 7. While many children may not need treatment at this early age, it’s an ideal time to identify any potential issues. Early detection allows for monitoring and planning future treatments if necessary. Often, early orthodontic intervention can reduce or eliminate the need for more extensive dental procedures later in life. At Highlight Clinic, we encourage parents to schedule an orthodontic evaluation for their children to ensure optimal oral health from a young age.
What Are Examples of Orthodontic Treatment?
Orthodontics encompasses a variety of treatments designed to correct dental and facial irregularities. Some of the most common treatments include:
Braces
Braces gradually shift your teeth into their desired positions over time using a combination of brackets, bands, and wires. There are different types of braces depending on your needs, including traditional metal braces and clear (ceramic) braces. These appliances apply continuous pressure to the teeth, slowly moving them into the correct alignment.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners are a popular alternative to braces. Brands like Invisalign and ClearCorrect offer a series of custom-made, clear aligner trays that fit snugly over your teeth. These trays are worn for one to two weeks before being replaced with the next set in the series. Over time, clear aligners shift your teeth into their proper positions without the need for brackets and wires, making them a discreet option for teeth straightening.
Retainers
After completing orthodontic treatment with braces or clear aligners, you’ll need a retainer to maintain your teeth’s new positions. Retainers are custom-made appliances that prevent teeth from shifting back to their original positions. Your orthodontist will provide instructions on how often to wear your retainer to ensure the long-term success of your treatment.
Palate Expanders
Orthodontists may recommend palate expanders for children to create more space in the mouth. These devices are used to widen the upper jaw, helping to correct bite issues and create room for permanent teeth to emerge properly. Palate expanders are particularly effective during childhood when the bones are still developing and more adaptable.
Other Orthodontic Appliances
There are various other orthodontic appliances and devices that may be used to correct specific dental issues, such as space maintainers, headgear, and elastics. Each appliance serves a unique purpose and is selected based on the individual needs of the patient.
At Highlight Clinic, we offer a comprehensive range of orthodontic treatments tailored to meet the unique needs of each patient. Our experienced team is committed to providing the highest quality care and helping you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile