What is Orthodontics?

Orthodontics is a specialty of dentistry that ensures the proper and healthy positioning of teeth and jaw structures. Its aim is to achieve correct placement of teeth on the jawbones and maintain facial aesthetics. Orthodontics not only aligns the teeth but also addresses irregularities in the jaw and facial structure.

What Causes Orthodontic Problems and How Are They Treated?

Orthodontic issues can arise from various causes. Conditions such as an underbite or overbite can be treated with different methods, considering the patient's age. In adolescents, skeletal disorders can often be corrected with orthodontic techniques, while adults may require a combination of orthodontics and surgery. Functional disorders may stem from habits like mouth breathing, leading to discrepancies in jaw structure.

Long-term use of bottles or pacifiers, thumb-sucking, and nail-biting can also lead to orthodontic problems. These habits should be discontinued as early as possible. Structural issues, such as a large tongue or the presence of extraction spaces, can cause teeth to become misaligned. If the jaw structure is small and the teeth are large, the teeth may not fit properly, resulting in crowding.

Early or late loss of primary teeth can also lead to crowding. If primary teeth are lost prematurely, permanent teeth will fill the space, making it difficult for other teeth to find their proper positions.

How Necessary is Orthodontic Treatment?

Orthodontic treatment not only addresses aesthetic concerns but also offers numerous benefits, such as preventing gum disease, resolving temporomandibular joint issues, ensuring chewing functionality, and correcting speech disorders. Treatment methods include removable appliances, functional appliances, and fixed appliances. Simple orthodontic issues can be resolved with removable elastic appliances that the patient can put on and take off.

To prevent teeth from returning to their previous positions after orthodontic treatment, retention therapies are applied. During this period, passive appliances are used.

How is Orthodontic Treatment Performed?

Orthodontic treatment is divided into two categories: removable and fixed methods. Removable treatment is carried out with clear aligners or appliances that the patient can take out. This method is used for correcting simple crowding and gaps between teeth. Fixed treatment involves brackets that are attached to the teeth. These brackets can be metal or ceramic and are connected with special wires. This allows the teeth to be moved into proper alignment. For some jaw issues, extraoral appliances may be used.

Is There an Age Limit for Orthodontics?

Crowding issues related to teeth can be treated at any age. However, treatment for skeletal disorders should be performed before the completion of puberty. In older patients, skeletal issues can be treated through surgeries known as orthognathic surgery. The first orthodontic examination should take place around the age of 7-8.

What Should Be Considered After Orthodontic Treatment?

To ensure teeth do not revert to their previous state after orthodontic treatment, retention therapies are implemented. Fixed retainers or removable retainers (such as Essix retainers) can be used. Maintaining straight teeth is as important as the treatment itself. Retention therapy ensures that teeth remain healthy and aesthetically pleasing for a lifetime.

How Long Does Orthodontic Treatment Take?

The duration of orthodontic treatment varies from patient to patient. Simple orthodontic issues can be resolved in a few months, while more complex issues may take 1.5 to 2 years.

What is the Difference Between an Orthodontist and a Dentist?

Dentists focus on overall oral and dental health, while orthodontists specialize in correcting the alignment of teeth and jaw structures. Dentists graduate from dental school and undergo an additional 4-5 years of specialized training to become orthodontists. Orthodontists treat patients with braces, clear aligners, and other orthodontic devices.

Frequently Asked Questions About Orthodontics

• How much does orthodontics cost? The cost of orthodontic treatment varies depending on the doctor and treatment center. Factors affecting the price include the type of brackets, materials used, the dentist's experience, and the duration of treatment.
• Are orthodontics and jaw surgery the same? Orthodontics and jaw surgery are different. Jaw surgery involves surgical procedures to correct jaw and tooth positioning, while orthodontics treats dental and jaw issues with braces and aligners. Both methods can be used together in adult patients with jaw disorders.
• Do orthodontists apply braces? Braces are applied by orthodontists.
• Is orthodontics harmful? Orthodontic treatment is not harmful when performed by qualified specialists and when the patient maintains good oral hygiene. It helps improve the health of the teeth by facilitating effective brushing of crowded teeth.
• What happens if orthodontic treatment is not performed? Not undergoing orthodontic treatment can lead to aesthetic issues as well as gum diseases, jaw joint disorders, and chewing problems. Crowded teeth are difficult to clean, leading to a higher incidence of decay and gum issues. Aesthetic concerns can also result in psychological issues.