FAQs Orthodontics (Braces)
What Is An Orthodontist?
An Orthodontics is a dentist Essex with specialised training in orthodontics or braces and can sometimes be a cosmetic dentist. An orthodontist should be registered with the GDC and regularly attend further training in orthodontics. Orthodontics is a special field of cosmetic dentistry in Essex that can correct misaligned teeth. If your teeth are crooked, gappy or crowded orthodontics may be for you.
There are many types of orthodontics. Popular types include:
- Clear braces – these are clear or invisible like Clearstep or Inman Aligner.
- Conventional braces – metal or ceramic braces traditionally used to correct misaligned teeth.
- Removable braces – these are special orthodontic braces that can be removed for eating and cleaning.
What Is The Best Dental Plan For Orthodontics?
Orthodontic brace treatment can be carried out by cosmetic dentists if the braces are the clear type. Fixed bracket brace treatment is best carried out by a specialist orthodontist.
It depends on the mal occlusion as to what type of brace is needed. First of all a detailed examination, x rays and study models are taken, after which a clear treatment plan can be formulated.
What Causes Malocclusion?
Malocclusion is caused when there is a disharmony of the upper and lower jaw. Sometimes there is skeletal disharmony which causes malocclusion. This can sometimes interfere with speech and in very severe cases a distortion of the patients face. In the very severe cases sometimes surgical intervention is required.
If the malocclusion is not very severe the condition can be rectified with conventional braces.
What Is The Right Age For Orthodontic Treatment?
Orthodontic or brace treatment can start from any age and your dentist will recommend when is a good time to start treatment. Orthodontic treatment can be anything from six months to six years in length. This of course depends on the severity of the malocclusion. Nowadays it is not uncommon for adults in their fifties to request treatment.
Top Myths About Orthodontic Braces
Some of the things said about orthodontic braces.
You cannot talk properly with them
You cannot eat properly while wearing them
Your teeth will rot underneath them
Your teeth will discolour when they are removed
You can’t kiss anyone else who is also wearing braces as you might get locked together!
What is a specialist orthodontist?
In addition to obtaining a dental degree, a specialist orthodontist would have completed a three year full time advanced training program in orthodontics. Specialist orthodontists dedicate their practice solely to the study and practice of orthodontics.
Why might I need orthodontic or braces treatment?
Orthodontic or braces treatment may be provided to correct crooked, spaced or protruding teeth. An incorrect bite such as deep overbite may also be treated. Sometimes orthodontic treatment is necessary to upright teeth prior to facilitate placement of complex bridgework or dental implants.
What are the benefits of orthodontics?
Orthodontic treatment can not only create a beautiful smile but improve a person’s self esteem. Patients frequently report that orthodontics has allowed them to smile with confidence for the first time in their lives.
Additionally crooked teeth and incorrect bites can lead to tooth wear, decay and gum disease.
Can adults have orthodontic treatment?
Certainly, treatment may be provided at any age provided the individual has healthy teeth and gums. Today there are an increasing number of adults wearing braces which have become much more acceptable. Individuals who take the time and effort of having orthodontics to improve their dental appearance and function are respected by others.
What does it braces or orthodontic treatment involve?
Orthodontic treatment involves wear of fixed or removable braces to align unstraight teeth and correct incorrect bites. A variety of appliances are available which offer improved aesthetics, comfort or faster treatment.
How long will my orthodontic treatment take?
Each patient is treated on an individual basis. Treatment varies from 6 months to two and a half years. Care in looking after your brace and keeping appointments avoids prolonging treatment. Damon braces may reduce the duration of longer treatment by several months.
How often will I need to see the orthodontist?
You will need to attend appointments to adjust your brace every 4 to 8 weeks.
Will I experience discomfort?
Following adjustment of your appliance you may experience some discomfort or mild pain for a few days. This may be alleviated by a mild analgesic such as paracetamol.
What happens at my orthodontic consultation?
This will be an opportunity to discuss your concerns with the orthodontist and explore different option to correct this through orthodontics. An examination will be performed and if necessary x-rays will be take to make a diagnosis.
If you decide to have orthodontic treatment a subsequent appointment will be made to take clinical records. Records include photographs, additional x-rays and study models.
What type of orthodontic appliance will be needed?
This will be discussed with you during your consultation. The choice will depend on the diagnosis of the problem and your personal preference. The choices are outlined below:
Conventional fixed braces
Modern fixed braces have become much smaller and noticeable than they used to. Fixed braces allow for precise tooth movement necessary to correct all but simple orthodontic problems.
Damon braces
Conventional braces hold (ligate) orthodontic wires to brackets using elastic or metal “ties” which introduce friction, which can make treatment slower. Damon Passive Self Ligating brackets eliminate the need for these ties and together with high technology wires allow for faster treatment and in certain cases eliminate the need for extractions. This fixed appliance is also more comfortable for the patient and easier to keep clean.
The potential advantages that the Damon brace offers together with clinical experience of orthodontists have made this a recommended appliance.
Ceramic braces
Tooth coloured ceramic braces are an aesthetic alternative to metallic braces. These aesthetic braces tend to be favoured for cosmetics.
Invisalign (invisible braces)
Certain cases may be successfully treated with Invisalign. A series of clear aligners are custom made for each patient to achieve alignment of teeth.
Removable braces
Removable braces are composed of acrylic with metallic components. They are removed and inserted by the patient. They tend to be used for correction of more simple orthodontic problems such as moving a single tooth.
Functional braces
These are removable braces specifically designed to address jaw disharmonies in growing patients.
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