Orthodontics

Science of putting braces on teeth to align them in proper functional occlusion or biting capacity is called Orthodontics. Wires / braces are put on teeth to align them. Minimum age required is 12-14 years. Treatment can be done at any age afterwards.

Orthodontics is basically done

• To align malpositioned teeth
• To close gaps
• To correct bone deformities
• As adjunctive to cosmetic treatments

An incorrect bite can lead to long term dental problems and even jaw and head pain. By straightening the teeth, you also help to prevent tooth decay and gum diseases as straighter teeth are easier to clean.

Surgeries are sometimes done to correct bone deformities which cannot be treated with regular treatments. Results are faster in surgeries than conventional methods. Maintenance is must in Orthodontics to prevent relapse

It is very important to have sound bone and gum condition before doing Orthodontics

Modern Orthodontic treatment makes use of ceramic brackets which are less visible

Wiring can also be done in specific cases from inner side of teeth (Lingual braces)

Orthodontic braces are either fixed or removable

Fixed braces consist of brackets and bands which are cemented (glued) to your teeth which hold flexible wires in place. In turn, these wires exert pressure on your teeth gently moving them into their correct position over the course of your treatment.

Removable braces can be taken in and out of the mouth. It has delicate wires and springs attached which move the teeth using gentle pressure. These are used for less complex cases or in conjunction with fixed Braces as part of a combined treatment.

How does the treatment start?

At the first appointment, the Orthodontist will discuss with you what you would like to achieve from the orthodontic treatment. You will have an oral assessment, x-rays and study models taken of your teeth.

At the second appointment the orthodontist will outline your treatment plan to discuss all the options available to you. In many cases, permanent teeth need to be taken out to create space in your mouth so that the remaining teeth can be moved. If this is the case, the extractions are carried out by your regular dentist.

Appointment Three – Small plastic bands ’Separators’ will be placed in between your molar teeth. The bands will stay in place for one week to create a space between the teeth for the permanent molar bands.

How long does the treatment take?

It usually takes between 18-24 months but will vary according to how complex the case is.

You still require regular six month check-ups with your dentist to ensure your gums and teeth are healthy.

Looking after your Braces

You will be able to eat most of the foods you were eating before, but more care will need to be taken not to damage your braces. There are some foods that have to be cut out of your diet whilst you are wearing the appliance.

• Toffees.
• Chewy sweets, like chocolate bars, eclairs for example.
• Hard foods, like crusty bread and apples.

Also think twice before opening bottles with your teeth, biting pen tops or chewing your finger nails as these can also damage your braces.

It is very important that your oral hygiene is excellent as cleaning your teeth are much more difficult with a brace in place. Brushing your teeth after every snack and meal throughout the day will reduce the risk of decay and gum disease. In addition, take longer brushing your teeth in the morning and at night. Ask your Orthodontist which is the best type of tooth brush for cleaning braces. If you do not look after your teeth during your treatment they can become permanently stained.

After your treatment is complete

Your braces will be removed and your teeth cleaned and polished to remove any remaining cement. Your treatment is not over as the teeth need to be held in position while the surrounding gum and bone settles. This period is called retention and the appliance that holds the teeth are called retainers, which are either fixed or removable. Depending on the type of retainers, Impressions may to be taken in order for the retainers to be made at the dental laboratory that will take a few days.

Today there are consultant  Orthodontists at SSCC, who are present  to attend to Orthodontic patients, emergencies, follow up, check ups. Patients can visit any of the branches as per their convenience.

Since the cost of getting the appliance fixed in some countries is very high, patients can fix the latest technology appliance here which would have been expensive to afford otherwise.

All kinds of Orthodontic treatment is carried out here. Right from the traditional Removable, Fixed and Functional appliances even the new age Invisible braces (Aligners), Lingual braces can be done here.