Braces & Orthodontics
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Among the major strides in esthetic dentistry is the field of orthodontics, where professionals have been improving smiles and dental health using their trained expertise and use of orthodontic appliances such as braces. But what is orthodontics, and who are the professionals that work in this growing arena?
Overview
Examining the etymology of the word "orthodontics" is a fitting way to define the discipline: the Greek word roots orthos and odous mean "straight" and "tooth," respectively. The field emerged early on as a specialty that addresses tooth displacement, bite irregularity, jawbone proportionality and other issues affecting the surrounding bones and tissues of the mouth and face. A cosmetic dentist may specialize in orthodontics, using reconstructive procedures to make aesthetic improvements to the teeth. From a more surgical perspective, reconstruction and correction of bone irregularities of the face, especially when related to dental irregularities, fall under the jurisdiction of orthodontics as well.
What is an Orthodontist?
Orthodontists are professional Dentists who specialize in orthodontics. These specialists are certified after a number of years in tertiary education and training to implement plans of care in the effort to straighten, align, and otherwise correct bite irregularities in their patients. These treatment plans frequently encompass the use of hardware such as headgear, braces, and retainers as detailed below.
Types of Appliances
As mentioned above, Orthodontists frequently use appliances to correct malocclusions in patients over time. These eliminate the need for surgery and constant adjustments by the Orthodontist. Based on the circumstances surrounding the patient's age, dental issue, overall health, and any other relevant factors, Orthodontists can prescribe retainers, headgear, braces, and other implements to straighten teeth.
Retainers, commonly used after braces, are molded to the patient's palate and placed in the roof of the mouth as well as the bottom to ensure that the teeth "retain" their new positions.
Dental headgear is used in conjunction with braces to correct severe malocclusions. The typical headgear device incorporates a strap that wraps around the back of the head and a "bow" that is inserted into the braces.
Braces, the most common form of orthodontic appliance, are used to gradually straighten permanent teeth over time. Today, removable as well as fixed braces are available.
Procedure Experience
If braces are determined as the most appropriate appliance for a patient, the following steps highlight the major technical points of the procedure:
Every tooth that will be braced will be cleaned and prepared.
The braces are mounted to the teeth with bonding material.
The bond is hardened after a certain kind of light is shone on it.
The wires are threaded through the brackets, using the first molars as a starting point.
Elastic or metal bands will be applied, unless self-ligating braces were used.
After mounting and adjustment, most patients report slight discomfort or pain. This is common to the procedure and is not cause for alarm. When the treatment window ends, the braces are removed and a retainer is most commonly prescribed.
Call your Roseville dentist today for more information about braces and Orthodontic procedures
