Orthodontics-Braces

Orthodontics is a section of the dentistry which deals with malocclusions such as missing teeth, overbites, underbites, crowding, crossbites, etc., and improves the smile and the natural growth of the teeth. The bad bite, or the misalignment of the teeth or the jaw, is not only unaesthetic but it also leads to functional problems in terms of difficult chewing or talking and increased risk of tooth decay, etc. It is either genetical or occurred as a result of trauma, continuous sucking of the thumb or the pacifier, tongue-thrusting while swallowing or premature loss of baby teeth and etc.

Braces

Braces are the most widely used to treat orthodontic irregularities. They are usually constructed of wires and springs attached to tiny metal plates or plastic moulds. By applying moderate pressure on teeth, braces move them gradually to form a straighter alignment. They are most efficient with teeth that are still growing. In other words, the treatment for children is much shorter than the one for adults.

Braces can be fixed or removable (aligners), both of which are adjustable during the treatment to achieve the desired effects.

Orthodontic screening and treatment for the different ages:

Early childhood – Children at the age of 7 can start having orthodontic screening. This is the time when there must be sufficiently permanent teeth in the child's mouth and the potential problems could be identified. The earliest the treatment starts the better and the faster the results are achieved, so do not wait for all permanent teeth to erupt.
Adolescent and teenage years – This is the best time to have orthodontic treatment as all permanent teeth must have grown at that age.
Adulthood – This is the time when teeth are fully developed. Changing their position is more complicated and requires more patience.

Phases in the orthodontic treatment

Active phase – The period when braces or other orthodontic treatments are applied in order to correct the alignment and bite.
Retention phase – The period after the treatment, when a retainer is used to hold the repositioned teeth and to ensure long-term results.

Braces variety

Braces vary in appearance and technology. Among the most popular are: the metal silver braces, the Ceramic braces, the Sapphire Inspire brand braces, the Lingual braces, the Friction-free Damon braces.

Orthodontic screening and treatment for the different ages:

Early childhood – Children at the age of 7 can start having orthodontic screening. This is the time when there must be sufficiently permanent teeth in the child's mouth and the potential problems could be identified. The earliest the treatment starts the better and the faster the results are achieved, so do not wait for all permanent teeth to erupt.
Adolescent and teenage years – This is the best time to have orthodontic treatment as all permanent teeth must have grown at that age.
Adulthood – This is the time when teeth are fully developed. Changing their position is more complicated and requires more patience.

Phases in the orthodontic treatment

Active phase – The period when braces or other orthodontic treatments are applied in order to correct the alignment and bite.
Retention phase – The period after the treatment, when a retainer is used to hold the repositioned teeth and to ensure long-term results.

Braces variety

Invisalign or invisible braces

Invisalign braces are a series of invisible aligners, custom-made to match your teeth and to help reposition them over time. The system utilises the latest in computerised technology and three-dimensional modelling to generate a series of clear, see-through aligners or "clear braces". The biggest advantages of Invisalign are that the aligners can be removed during meals and cleaning, and that they are aesthetic and invisible.

Inman Aligners

Inman Aligners are the alternative to Invisalign when simple orthodontic problems are treated, requiring only front teeth movements.

Clear Correct

Clear Correct is a system of removable clear aligners - to treat mild orthodontic problems. It is perfectly applied in case of orthodontic relapse, minor tooth movement or small gaps. With ClearCorrect, your dentist or orthodontist can straighten your teeth using a series of clear, custom, removable aligners. Each aligner moves your teeth just a little bit at a time until you eventually get straight teeth. ClearCorrect uses your records to create exact 3D models of your teeth. Once completed, you and your doctor will be able to preview the projected results of your treatment in your "treatment set-up," a computer representation of your teeth before and after treatment. Aligner by aligner, you'll be able to see the difference as your teeth slowly adjust and align to your target smile. You'll visit your doctor periodically for checkups to see how you're progressing until you eventually have the straight smile you've always wanted.