What is Orthodontics?
Orthodontics is the
science of straightening crooked teeth. It is also commonly known as braces.
The causes of crooked teeth
or mal-alignment of teeth are numerous. Amongst them are:
1. Tooth-size
discrepancy ie insufficient jaw space for all the teeth to erupt into good
alignment.
2. Early loss of teeth.
The resulting space allows erupting permanent teeth to drift into them.
3. Excessive or
deficient jaw bones. This is a growth or developmental problem; genetic in
origin.
4. Parafunctional
habits such as thumb sucking and tongue thrusting.
5. Cleft lip/ palate
and craniofacial syndromes. This is mal-alignment as a result of severe facial
deformities.
Why treat mal-alignment of teeth?
The obvious reason is
good looks. However, the other important reason is good functions such as
speaking and chewing. Well-aligned teeth allows for easy maintenance and
consequent good health because misaligned teeth tend to trap food and debris.
Methods of treatment
The main method is with
brackets , commonly known as
braces. These are metallic structures that are cemented onto the teeth
surfaces. Using an arch wire,
progressive light forces is applied to move the teeth in a very
controlled direction. Brackets are usually made of metal. However, there are
tooth-coloured ceramic brackets that are inconspicuous and lingual
brackets that are hidden on the inner surface of the teeth, rendering them
“invisible”.
Other methods are:
1. Removable
appliances. These are plastic plates that can be removed from the teeth. Wires
are incorporated onto the plates to move teeth.
2. Growth modification.
Treatment that is carried out early, before puberty to either lengthen or
shorten the jaw bones.
When can orthodontics start?
The optimal age to
commence braces is when all the permanent teeth have erupted. This is usually
during puberty, ranging from age 11 to 13 years old. However, an assessment
before this age is appropriate to rule out other minor treatment that may be
required earlier, such as when there is trapping of a single tooth or when the
lower teeth is biting on the palate. The recommended age for this assessment is
when the child is 7 years old.
For an adult who
requires braces, there is no age limit as long as there is no medical problem.
Clinical Assessment
Before treatment can
proceed, a diagnosis must be made with clinical examination, x-rays and
study models. A treatment plan with the final result in mind must be
formulated and presented to you. This may include the need for extraction of
some teeth and occasionally oral surgery or jaw surgery.
Disclaimer:
The above FAQs are strictly for information only. It is NOT
intended as treatment advice over the Internet. See your Orthodontist or Dental
Surgeon to assess your individual need.