This is a branch of dentistry concerned with the growth of the face, development of the dentition and the prevention and correction of unaligned/crooked and crowded teeth and occasional anomalies.
Why Do Orthodontic Treatment?
- to correct it unesthetic dentition
- correct poor mastication pattern to unaligned teeth
- correct worsening gum problem
- stop tooth decay
- reduce wear and tear of the teeth
- reduce expensive stress on the gum and the bone tissues
- correct misalignment of the jaw joints
- give a beautiful smile
- restore self confidence.
Who Needs Orthodontic Treatment
- Adults
Orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age and adult are more likely to appreciation the benefits of beautiful smile that comes after the braces are removed.
- Children.
Children for the age of 7yrs should be taken for orthodontics treatment to correct crowding and to guide the jaw development and prevent further alignment problems.
How Does The Treatment Work?
Orthodontics appliances are of two types;
Removable and fixed and they can be made of metal, ceramics or acrylics.
These appliances work by applying a constant and gentle force in a carefully controlled direction. They (appliances) slowly move the teeth to a corrected position.
The patient has a wide range of choice to make on the type of appliance to use, depending on the treatment plain.
How Long Does It Take?
This may take one to three years depending on
-Age
-Growth of the patient’s mouth and face.
-Severity of the problem
-Patient’s diligent use of the appliances.
Generally, interceptive or early treatment procedure may take us few as 6-9 months.