Why Orthodontic Treatment?
Orthodontic treatment is part of a comprehensive dental health care plan. It enhances your oral health and creates beautiful smile. Teeth can last a lifetime with good oral care.
People with crowded or crooked teeth are said to have a “bad bite.” The teeth may look straight but the upper and lower teeth may not fit properly. It is harder to clean crooked teeth and this could lead to tooth decay, gum disease and tooth loss. Orthodontic treatment straightens the teeth and creates a “good bite ” where the upper and lower teeth fit properly. It is easier to clean, chew and speak with a good bite.
Who can undergo Orthodontic Treatment?
Both children and adults can undergo orthodontic treatments. Orthodontic treatments can be started as early as age eight. Recently many adults are opting to undergo orthodontic treatments at age 50+ too. Important criteria for orthodontic treatment is viable healthy bone for tooth movement. The orthodontist will select the type of appliance based on the patient’s age and treatment needs. Braces are available for patients of all ages.
Children Orthodontics (Kids Braces)
Treatment that begins while a child is growing helps produce the best results. Most treatment begins when patients are between 8 and 14. During the early developmental growth of jaw bone, the teeth size can be measured through diagnostic radiographs. By this measurement the anticipated space for the permanent teeth can be precisely planned. Also it is possible to guide the teeth and modify jaw alignment for good stability. Over the years research has shown that early orthodontic treatment started during “growth spurts” has more predictable outcome in teeth alignment.
Adult Orthodontics (Adult Braces)
Adults can undergo orthodontic treatment too. There is no age limit on when the orthodontic treatment can be started. Teeth can moved at any age. The orthodontic process involved in moving teeth is the same for all ages. It’s never too late to create a “good bite” and a beautiful smile. Also, modern orthodontic technology has reduced treatment time to 18 -24 months. Important benefits of orthodontic treatment is the ability to brush and clean teeth easily. This will prevent gum disease which is the foremost dental condition for tooth loss in older population.
Types of Orthodontic Treatment
There are different types of orthodontic treatment to correct a bad bite
Braces
Braces move the teeth by applying pressure. The braces consists of small brackets cemented to the teeth, connected by wire and rubber bands. The wire is regularly tightened by the orthodontist to gradually shift the teeth and jaw. The brackets could be metal or clear ceramic (tooth colored). Brackets can also be placed on the back of the teeth to make them less visible ( Incognito™ Braces)
Current Orthodontic Treatment we offer at Ridgetop Dental International:
- Metal Braces Metal braces are made of sturdy stainless steel. In the type of metal braces we use, the brackets are smaller and easy to clean.
- Ceramic Braces (Clear)Ceramic braces are made of ceramic material. The brackets are translucent and blends with the natural tooth color. They are strong and resist stain and discoloration throughout the treatment
- Hidden Braces Hidden braces are not visible from outside, the metal brackets are placed on the backs of the teeth.
In some complex cases, the upper or lower jaw sticks out causing uneven bite. Surgery may be needed to align the upper and lower jaws.
How Does Orthodontic Treatment Working?
Many different types of appliances, both fixed and removable, are used to help move teeth, retrain muscles and affect the growth of the jaws. These appliances work by placing gentle pressure on the teeth and jaws. The severity of your problem will determine which orthodontic approach is likely to be the most effective.
If you recognize any of these signs in your child or yourself, call us at (03) 9387 0709 for a consultation with our Orthodontist.
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
- Difficulty chewing or biting
- Mouth breathing
- Sucking the thumb or fingers
- Crowded, misplaced or blocked-out teeth
- Jaws that shift, make sounds, protrude or are recessed
- Speech difficulty
- Biting the cheek or biting into the roof of the mouth
- Protruding teeth
- Upper and lower teeth do not mesh well
- Grinding or clenching of teeth
- Inability to comfortably close lips
- Large gap between teeth
The benefits of orthodontic treatment include a healthier mouth, a more pleasing appearance, and teeth that are more likely to last a lifetime.
