7 Common Orthodontic Treatments Explained

Author : rohan kumar | Published On : 03 Apr 2024

Orthodontic treatments are designed to correct misaligned teeth and jaws, improving both the function and appearance of a person's smile. Here are seven common orthodontic treatments explained:

1. Braces: Traditional metal braces are a time-tested method for straightening teeth and correcting bite issues. They consist of small metal brackets that are bonded to the teeth and connected by a thin wire. The wires are gradually tightened over time, putting gentle pressure on the teeth to move them into the desired position.

• While they are not the most aesthetically pleasing option, metal braces are incredibly effective at correcting a wide range of dental issues, including crooked teeth, gaps, and misaligned bites. They are also typically more affordable than other orthodontic treatments from Best Orthodontists in Bangalore.
• One of the key benefits of metal braces is their durability and reliability. They can withstand the forces of chewing and speaking without issue, making them a practical choice for many patients. With regular adjustments by your orthodontist, metal braces can achieve excellent results in straightening your teeth and improving your smile.

2.Clear Aligners: Clear aligners, like Invisalign, offer a discreet and convenient way to straighten teeth without the need for traditional braces. These custom-made, clear trays are virtually invisible, making them a popular choice for those seeking a more aesthetically pleasing orthodontic treatment.

• One of the key advantages of clear aligners is their removability, allowing for easier cleaning and maintenance compared to fixed braces. This also means there are no dietary restrictions, as the trays can be taken out during meals.
• Clear aligners work by applying gentle pressure to gradually shift teeth into their desired position. Treatment typically involves a series of trays, each slightly adjusted to continue the teeth-straightening process.
• Patients wearing clear aligners typically visit their dentist or orthodontist every few weeks to receive new sets of aligner trays and monitor progress.
• Overall, clear aligners offer a comfortable, discreet, and effective solution for achieving a straighter smile.

3.Retainers: After braces or aligner treatment, retainers are often used to maintain the new position of the teeth. Retainers can be removable or fixed and are typically worn for a specified period to prevent teeth from shifting back to their original position.

4.Space Maintainers: Space maintainers from Best Orthodontists in Bangalore are dental devices used to hold space open for a permanent tooth to erupt properly in children who have lost a baby tooth prematurely. These devices help prevent adjacent teeth from shifting into the space, which could lead to misalignment or crowding issues. Space maintainers are custom-made to fit the child's mouth and are typically made of stainless steel or plastic. They can be removable or fixed (cemented onto the teeth). Regular dental check-ups are necessary to monitor the condition of the space maintainer and ensure that it remains effective. Space maintainers are a conservative and cost-effective way to preserve proper dental alignment and prevent the need for more extensive orthodontic treatment in the future. Parents should follow the dentist's instructions regarding care and maintenance of the space maintainer to ensure its effectiveness.

5.Palatal Expanders: Palatal expanders are devices used to widen the upper jaw to create more space for crowded teeth or to correct a crossbite. They are commonly used in children while their jaw is still growing.

6.Orthognathic Surgery: Orthognathic surgery, also known as corrective jaw surgery, is a procedure used to correct severe cases of jaw misalignment and malocclusion. This surgery involves repositioning the jawbones to improve their alignment and function. It is often recommended for patients who have difficulty chewing, biting, or speaking due to their jaw structure.

• Orthognathic surgery is typically performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon in collaboration with an orthodontist. The surgery is usually preceded by orthodontic treatment to align the teeth as closely as possible before the surgical correction.
• The surgery itself is performed under general anesthesia and involves making cuts in the jawbones to reposition them. The bones are then secured in their new position using plates, screws, or wires.
• Recovery from orthognathic surgery can take several weeks, during which time patients may need to follow a soft or liquid diet. Physical therapy may also be recommended to help restore normal jaw function.
• Overall, orthognathic surgery can greatly improve both the function and appearance of the jaw, leading to better oral health and quality of life for patients.

7.Headgear: Headgear from Best orthodontists in Bangalore is a dental appliance designed to correct bite problems and jaw discrepancies by exerting gentle pressure on the upper teeth and jaw. It consists of a metal wire that attaches to the braces or bands on the teeth and extends to a strap or headcap that fits around the head or neck.

• This orthodontic treatment is typically prescribed for patients with significant overbite or underbite issues. By applying consistent pressure, headgear helps guide the growth of the upper jaw, allowing the lower jaw to align properly. It is usually worn for a specified number of hours each day or overnight, as directed by the orthodontist.
• Headgear is most commonly used in younger patients, as their jaws are still growing and more easily influenced. While it may feel uncomfortable at first, patients usually adjust to wearing headgear within a few days. Compliance with wearing headgear