Orthodontics

Dental Orthodontics

Dental orthodontics does not only seek to align teeth uniformly just because they are crooked or have an unaesthetic image. Orthodontics goes a step further, as it attempts to change and correct chewing problems, jaw pain, and even facial abnormalities. Although people take this treatment for the current obsession of perfecting their face millimetrically.

Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that studies, prevents, and corrects possible unusual changes in the development of the mandible and jaw with the goal, of restoring facial and oral functionality. Of course, it can also help to improve facial aesthetics.

In more technical terms, this treatment focuses its study on the new possibility of reactivating the occlusal functionality in a healthy way. And it also seeks the correct displacement of the entire set of teeth or dental arch. Although, as mentioned before, it is used to correct chewing habits and issues. Occlusion is nothing more than the relationship between the teeth of different arches, that is, between the upper and lower teeth.

There are several dental centers in Albania and most of them have been rated very positively, but it is worth mentioning Amaris Dental Clinic, which offers very competitive prices and the best care in the area.

Types of orthodontics

Three types of appliances are usually used for this type of intervention:

Functional appliances: When talking about this appliance we can make a broad generalization of removable appliances that were made to intervene in the position of different sets of muscles, which make up the jaw and its functionality. These appliances are mostly recommended when the treatment is temporary or mixed. And it should be noted that they are mainly based on making functional modifications, although they can lead to structural changes. They also tend to change and transform the pathway and intensity of the dental musculature and often produce dental displacements. The main effect of this appliance, in a beneficial way for your jaw, is that it achieves dental inclination and changes the structure of the bone that supports the teeth.

Removable appliances: Among the orthodontic alternatives for adults, removable braces are the most popular. In this way, the appliance can be removed and the orthodontics can be replaced only under certain circumstances, reducing the time of use and improving adult orthodontics in many ways.

Among them are improved hygiene, eating comfort, and dental esthetics. Sometimes, it is recommended to wear a fixed orthodontic appliance for a short time after removal of the removable treatment to ensure maximum correction, functionality, and esthetics. On the other hand, mobile appliances are often widely used to support fixed treatment.

Fixed appliances: Brackets are the typically fixed appliances that are placed on individual teeth, and attached with elastic metal wires that will exert some force to achieve the desired tooth placement. The main disadvantage of braces is that they are totally fixed and the patient will not be able to remove them during the entire treatment period.

There are currently two types of brackets: Metal brackets and aesthetic or white brackets. The last one achieves a harmonious mimicry with the teeth and is much more imperceptible than metal brackets.

Orthodontics from the use of this type of braces are usually associated with conditions such as gingival inflammation and even bleeding gums. Oral hygiene becomes more difficult to perform. Therefore, whoever decides to get any of these appliances should have a previous check-up with your trusted specialist to confirm that you are in a good state of periodontal health. Likewise, the treatment must be followed continuously during the time considered by your dentist.

Most importantly, the orthodontic practice should be based on a well-organized oral hygiene program that includes a specific explanation of the link between bacterial plaque and swollen or inflamed gums. A nutritional guide should also be included since the diet should be specific for the duration of the braces, as they run the risk of being damaged or broken.

Fixed or removable, which option is better?

Removable appliances are usually used in less severe cases than braces. Although it will always be the dentist who, after analyzing the case, will advise which of these two appliances is the most suitable for the patient in question. The age of the patient is also influential in this regard. The dentist will likely offer the option of selecting one or the other. In this case, the patient should weigh the pros and cons of each of these technologies. If you are going to be consistent and abide by all of the dentist’s guidelines, a removable appliance may be a perfect choice.

It is also likely that the dentist will indicate the use of both technologies on the same patient. Generally, the dentist will start with brackets to begin treating the problem and then, after a few months, recommend a removable appliance to complete the specific treatment.

Extra care after orthodontic treatment

Prepare for brushing: Remove elastics and any other removable parts of your orthodontic appliance.

Clean your braces: Hold your brush at a 45-degree angle to clean around the wires and pins of your braces. Brush from the top of each wire to the bottom. Take your time to make sure all plaque and debris are removed, and work all the way around the top and bottom teeth.

Brush your teeth: Clean each tooth individually. First, place the brush at a 45-degree angle to the gum line, then apply gentle pressure while in circular motions pass the brush. Do this for about 10 seconds. Use the same brushing action on all outer and inner tooth surfaces, angling the brush as needed to better reach the inside of the smaller front teeth.

Floss once a day: Ask your dental professional to show you the best way to floss or follow the instructions on the product package.

Rinse and check your teeth: Rinse well with water or mouthwash, and examine your teeth and braces in the mirror.

Professional care: Visit the dentist and orthodontist regularly. Listening to what your dentist says will always be a fundamental step in the care of your orthodontics.