What is Orthodontics?

To put it simply, orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that treats malocclusion, which is a condition in which the teeth are not properly positioned. When your mouth closes this results in an improper bite. Here are Dr. Oksana Dental Care, we understand our clients do not know much about it, so we are writing this article to give those people important information.

Types of Treatment

An orthodontists job can include several tasks, such as closing wide gaps between teeth, aligning the tips of the teeth, and straightening crooked teeth. They also improve your ability chew food, boost the longevity of your gums and prevent the long-term wear of your teeth.

Devices

To help achieve their goal, a dentist can use a variety of devices. The most common of them are fixed appliances. Having one of this does not impede the with your eating, unless you plan to consume certain items. Plus, if you compete in any contact sports such as football or rugby, you would require gum shields.

One of the more common fixed appliances are braces. It works by having brackets attached to the front of the teeth and passing tightened wires through them. This over time moves the teeth into the right position. Some other fixed appliances are fixed-space maintainers and removable space maintainers.

Then there are removable orthodontic appliances which are used to treat minor problems such as the prevention of thumb sucking, or correcting slightly crooked teeth.

One of the more common fixed appliances are braces. It works by having brackets attached to the front of the teeth, and wires are passed through the brackets and is tightened. This over time moves the teeth into the right position. Some other fixed appliances are fixed-space maintainers and removable space maintainers.

Then there are removable orthodontic appliances which are used to treat minor problems such as the prevention of thumb sucking, or correcting slightly crooked teeth.

 

Devices

If the jaws and teeth do not develop properly, malocclusion can result. The teeth will be crooked and misaligned, and the bottom and top sets of teeth may not line up.

Malocclusion is not a disease and it does not affect physical health. It is a variation in the position of teeth. However, it may impact the shape of the face and the appearance of the teeth, resulting in embarrassment, a lack of self-confidence, and even depression.

Reasons include injury to the teeth or facial bones and frequent thumb or finger sucking, among others.Severe malocclusion may affect eating, speech, and keeping the teeth clean.

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Dr. Oksana is dedicated to your oral health with services including orthodontics, family dentisty, cosmetic dentistry and many more. Come visit our office in High Park.