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ORTHODONTICS

What Is Orthodontics?

Orthodontic treatment involves the alignment of teeth as well as the creation of a well-balanced, harmonious facial profile whilst respecting the biology of the patient.

Teeth are moved by placing gentle, controlled forces on them, as the orthodontist uses braces or clear aligners to guide them to their ideal positions over a period of time. Tooth movement happens because of the breakdown and rebuilding of bone tissue.

At the end of “active” treatment (when teeth are being moved), most patients will wear retainers to give the new bone a chance to harden and support the new positions of the teeth.

Ideal age for first Visit

The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that all children have a check-up with an orthodontic specialist no later than age 7. However, one can still schedule a visit to assess if there are any developmental problems that will require interceptive/ phase one orthodontic treatment. This is done in order to identify the need for early treatment or the need for observation until treatment can be done.

Specific signs to recognise:

• Thumb-sucking or continued use of pacifiers beyond the age of four

• Children breathing through their mouths

• Children snoring regularly while asleep

• Children having a noticeable ‘Overbite’ (Deep Bite),  ‘Under-bite’(reverse overjet) or Openbite where the upper and lower teeth do not come together and the lips cannot close easily

• Excessive spaces in between permanent teeth

• Crooked permanent teeth

• Overcrowding or overlapping of teeth

• Children’s jaws “pop” when they bite, chew, or talk or lock

• Children have problems with biting and chewing

• Children bite the side of their cheeks frequently

• Retained primary (baby) teeth or the early loss of teeth

ORTHODONTICS

  Making Pietermaritzburg Smile!

Adult Orthodontics:

According to the American Association of Orthodontics, one in four orthodontic patients is an adult. Leaving malaligned teeth untreated may lead to other dental problems such as tooth decay, gum disease and difficulty chewing.

Orthodontic treatment creates a better bite, making teeth fit better and decreasing the risk of future dental problems regardless of age.

Advances in orthodontics have also made treatment more comfortable and less noticeable than ever for individuals of all ages. Many of today’s treatment options are designed to minimize the appearance of the appliance to better fit any lifestyle.

Dentist vs Orthodontist

Orthodontists master the intricacies of orthodontic treatment through years of study, including five years of dentistry followed by four years of education in an accredited orthodontic residency programme.

 The art and science of tooth movement as well as dentofacial orthopaedics (the guidance of dental, jaw and facial development) are extensively studied.