When the upper and lower teeth are aligned correctly the
result is a healthy bite and an attractive smile.
Sometimes, the teeth might be misaligned or crooked,
adversely affecting the bite. A bad bite is known as
"malocclusion" and it can possibly lead to tooth decay and
gum disease. Malocclusion can be caused by a number of
factors. A small jaw size can cause malocclusion, as can
habits such as thumb sucking and any other factor which
damages the teeth, can lead to misalignment and a bad bite.
Whatever the cause, an orthodontist can correct these
dental irregularities by applying braces. Orthodontia is a
branch of dentistry that specializes is correcting dental
and facial irregularities. Braces are devices that help
straighten the teeth into proper alignment, by moving the
jaw and teeth into their correct positions. Braces consist
of brackets and wires. Brackets are made out of metal,
ceramic or plastic and are attached to the teeth. An arch
wire is connected to the brackets. The arch wire is what
gradually moves the teeth into their correct position.
In some cases, additional devices are needed to assure that
the lower and upper teeth fit together properly in order to
get the ideal bite. Rubber bands are able to provide
additional force to move the teeth into proper alignment.
Another devise is a palatial expander which can be used to
enlarge the size of the upper jaw.
A typical treatment lasts 18-30 months. There might be some
discomfort and soreness the first week after getting
braces; after that the pain should subside. Patients can
partake in their normal activates, although a mouth guard
is recommended when partaking in contact sports. When
wearing braces it is important to avoid hard, chewy and
sticky food and to make sure the teeth are thoroughly
cleaned. An orthodontist will be able to go over proper
brushing techniques to make sure the teeth stay clean.
The American Association of Orthodontist recommends that
all children receive an orthodontist check up at age 7.
Most patients begin treatment between the ages of 9 to 16.
There are an increasing number of people who begin
treatment as adults. An orthodontist will be able to move
the teeth into their proper position. However, starting
treatment as an adult may take longer and surgery might be
needed to expand the jaw to allow the teeth to move into
their proper position.
Whether starting treatment as a child, teen or adult
successful orthodontic care requires the joint efforts of
the patient, family dentist and orthodontist.
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For more information, you may visit
http://www.chicago-dental.com .
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