The specialty of orthodontics deals with the diagnosis, prevention, and management of teeth that are crooked or are misplaced. Orthodontists also specialize in correcting and modifying facial growth and development. There are many benefits to having an orthodontist, from improved appearance to a healthier and more functional bite. There are several reasons for seeking orthodontic treatment, and these can be explained in this article. Keep reading to learn about the benefits and risks of orthodontics.
Explaining orthodontic treatment
Before you decide to have orthodontic treatment, you should know what it is all about. Orthodontics is a special branch of dentistry that focuses on misaligned or crooked teeth. Over 70% of teenagers and adults have misaligned teeth, and the purpose of treatment is to correct this condition. It can also improve your smile and your overall oral health. Orthodontics treatment involves a variety of procedures and devices, including dental braces, which straighten teeth.
Although orthodontics is usually recommended for children, adults can also benefit from the procedure. The younger you start treatment, the less complicated it is. Your dentist will examine your teeth and make a plaster model. In some cases, your dentist will have to remove some of your teeth in order to fix the misalignment. You will also need to have a dental x-ray and a mold made of your teeth. Once the dental x-rays and molds are completed, your orthodontist will begin the treatment process.
Signs of malocclusion
Malocclusion is a type of dental condition that causes irregular alignment of the teeth. This can cause pain and discomfort to the person and may affect their ability to chew and speak. If you suspect that you may have a malocclusion, see an orthodontist right away. Malocclusion symptoms vary from mild to severe, depending on the severity of the problem. However, common symptoms include difficulty chewing, jaw pain, and biting the inside of the cheek. Severe malocclusions can lead to malformed facial features and a lisp.
Malocclusions occur for many reasons, including missing teeth, small or crowded teeth, thumb sucking, and other habits. The upper teeth should fit over the lower teeth and the molar points should fit into the grooves on the opposite molar. These types of problems can affect the eruption of permanent teeth. A major concern for crooked teeth in children is an overjet, or overbite. Your dentist can determine if your child has malocclusion by performing a comprehensive exam and recommending orthodontic treatment.
Using removable appliances
Despite their ease of use, many people do not prefer fixed appliances over removable ones. The simple reason is that they do not result in multiple simultaneous tooth movements. Removable appliances are usually only used in specific interventions in the mixed dentition or as adjuncts to more complex fixed appliance treatment. The following discussion discusses the benefits and limitations of removable appliances. If you are unsure of which appliance to use, ask your orthodontist.
Using removable appliances in orthodontics requires careful consideration. Inappropriate use of these appliances can result in compromised results. In the previous case, upper first premolars were extracted to reduce the overjet. Tipping alone was insufficient to correct the overjet. The use of removable appliances converted Class II division 1 incisor relationship into Class II division 2 incisor relationship. It is important to remember that these appliances can only be used in conjunction with other treatments, which is why they should only be used as adjuncts to more complex ones.
Risks of orthodontic treatment
While undergoing orthodontic treatment is not generally a life-threatening condition, there are a few common complications that can occur. These complications include root resorption, tooth devitalization, and treatment failure. The risks associated with orthodontic care are discussed in this review. Although these complications are rare, some patients may experience a relapse after orthodontic treatment. In addition, patients may experience pain or discomfort after orthodontic treatment. A full understanding of the risks associated with orthodontic treatment is necessary to minimize any harm.
The types of orthodontic treatment and the patient’s general health can influence the degree of tissue damage during or after the procedure. Severe malocclusions have greater potential for tissue damage. Patients with certain risk factors should be carefully evaluated before treatment to avoid such problems. In addition, a careful screening process of the patient’s malocclusion can help to minimize any risk associated with the treatment. Even if the risk of damage is very low, patients should consider this before undergoing orthodontic treatment.