What is Orthodontics?
Orthodontic deals with the arrangement of teeth and the way teeth come together
(the bite). Orthodontic treatment aims at bringing teeth and jaws into a
harmonious position with the face. This may improve the appearance, oral health
and function. Positive results can be achieved by informed and cooperative
patients.
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Before
orthodontic treatment
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After
orthodontic treatment
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Why do I need
braces?
People have their teeth straightened for a variety of reasons. These include:
dental health, appearance, speech, better chewing etc. Among these, dental
health is the most important. Poorly aligned or crooked teeth are difficult to
keep clean. They often give rise to decay and gum problem.
Orthodontic
treatment takes time?
Braces used in orthodontic treatment need time to work. This generally takes
two to three years. The braces are fixed permanently on the teeth until the
completion of treatment. Special appliances called retainers are fitted after
braces treatment to hold the teeth in their new positions.
For treatment
to progress smoothly, you need to maintain good oral hygiene by brushing
regularly, especially after every meal and snack. Remember to bring a travel
toothbrush with you when you are not at home. Avoid eating hard, sticky foods
and keep to your orthodontic appointment faithfully.
When is the best
time to start treatment?
This depends on the type of orthodontic problem. For jaw-related cases,
treatment generally starts while the child is still growing. This is between
the ages of 9 to 11. For mal-aligned teeth not related to jaw problems, treatment
can generally be delayed until all the primary teeth (milk teeth) have changed
to permanent ones.
There is no
age limit for orthodontic treatment. Adults can also benefit from orthodontic
treatment.
The First
Consultation
On your first visit, the orthodontist will examine the general condition of
your gum, teeth and jaws. Depending on your oral condition, he/she will advise
you on the need for treatment. Other essential information, including the
costs, types and duration of treatment will also be discussed. If treatment is
recommended, special x-rays of the teeth and jaws will be taken for a more
detailed diagnosis.
Alternatives to Orthodontic treatment
For most people, orthodontic treatment is an elective procedure; this means
they can choose to have or not to have treatment. It is rare that teeth will be
lost if treatment is not started. There are alternative solutions to
orthodontic problems and these are: prosthodontic treatments using tooth
veneers, crowns, bridges or dentures; or no treatment at all. The orthodontist
will discuss the risks and benefits of each alternative with you.
Life won’t be much
different
Many people are worried about the pain and attention braces bring. Adapting to
braces can both be easy and fast. Some mild discomfort will be experienced in
the first week. Subsequently, you can eat or even play musical instruments as
normal. Colour and transparent bands are available to add variety to the look
of your braces.
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Coloured
bands
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Tooth-coloured
brackets
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