Orthodontic treatment
What is orthodontic dental treatment?
Orthodontic treatment is used to straighten teeth through controlled tooth movement. It can be performed at any age, both in children and adults—provided the supporting structures of the teeth are healthy.The best results are achieved when the treatment begins in childhood, but excellent and long-lasting outcomes can also be obtained in adults.
Most common irregularities
Most commonly, patients undergoing orthodontic treatment present with:
-
Crowded teeth
-
Gaps between teeth
-
Overlapping teeth
-
Twisted or crooked teeth
-
Teeth that have erupted incorrectly due to lack of space
The treatment allows for proper tooth alignment, improves appearance and bite function, and facilitates better oral hygiene maintenance.
In some cases, the issue lies in the alignment between the jaws. Typically, one jaw is more protruded, affecting facial aesthetics and increasing the risk of tooth damage. Improper jaw closure can cause muscle tension, jaw joint pain, and frequent headaches.
What does the treatment provide?
Orthodontic treatment is required to correct the irregularities.
Treatment begins with a complete oral examination: the position and number of teeth, functional movements of the lips and tongue, muscle activity, breathing and swallowing patterns are analyzed.
For diagnostics, panoramic and tel-ray images are usually required, as well as an impression of the jaws for the production of study models. After a detailed analysis and discussion with the patient, appropriate treatment options are proposed.
Orthodontic treatment takes a long time, often several years, in order to achieve the best and most lasting results.
-
Prevention of gingival diseases
Improving the position of the teeth allows for easier and more effective maintenance of oral hygiene. -
Reduction of caries
Food is prevented from getting stuck between improperly positioned teeth, which directly reduces the risk of cavities. -
Reducing the risk of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders
Clenching, crunching, and joint pain are often the result of an improper bite. Orthodontic treatment can alleviate or completely eliminate these problems. -
Correction of a bad bite
A malocclusion causes inefficient chewing, pressure on the teeth, cracking, and other complications. Treatment ensures proper function. -
Preventing bone erosion
Improperly positioned teeth create harmful pressure and bacterial accumulation. Correcting the position protects the bones and gums. -
Better digestion
A good bite allows for proper chewing and digestion of food, which has a positive effect on the digestive system. -
Improving facial aesthetics
Orthodontic treatment improves the symmetry and shape of the face, especially in conditions such as prognathia, protrusion, crossbite, or open bite. -
Speech improvement
The correct position of the teeth and jaws contributes to better articulation and clearer speech.
Orthodontic appliances
Orthodontic treatment uses different types of appliances to correct teeth.
Fixed Braces (Brackets)
They consist of brackets glued to the front of each tooth, connected by wire.
They can be:
-
metallic (most noticeable)
-
ceramic (aesthetic, less noticeable)
After placement, they adjust to normal eating, but sticky, hard foods and carbonated drinks should be avoided.
Wearing a protector is recommended when playing contact sports.
Removable Braces
Plastic plates that cover the palate and attach to the teeth.
They are most commonly used in children to expand the jaws, correct habits (such as thumb sucking), or in combination with fixed braces.
Functional appliances
Removable appliances (in pairs or complete designs) that act simultaneously on the upper and lower jaw.
They are often used in the growing phase in children to correct the position of the jaws.
Invisible braces - Invisalign
A set of transparent, removable aligners that gradually correct the position of the teeth.
They are worn 20–22 hours a day and are changed every 2 weeks. They are best suited for mild to moderate irregularities.
After completing orthodontic treatment, wearing a retainer is mandatory.
What is a retainer?
The retainer is not part of the active treatment, but it is crucial for maintaining the results achieved. After treatment is complete, the teeth tend to return to their previous position. To stabilize their new position, a retainer is required.
TYPES OF RETAINERS:
REMOVABLE RETAINERS
Transparent, thin aligners that are worn mostly at night. They are individually made according to the shape of the teeth.
FIXED RETAINERS
A metal wire glued to the back of the front teeth, which is not visible and does not interfere with daily activities. It requires increased attention when brushing.
Wearing retainers for life is the best way to maintain your beautiful smile.