Orthodontics

We have introduced Invisalign to our practice and are really excited about the benefits for our patients.  Invisalign is the technique of using a series of plates to realign teeth rather than braces.  Not useful in all orthodontic cases, but definitely appropriate for some patients'

Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that specialises in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities (malocclusion). It generally involves the use of such things as braces, removable appliances, functional appliances or headgear to move the teeth or jaws into an ideal relationship.

Malocclusion is a technical term for crooked, crowded or protruding teeth that do not fit together properly. These problems may be inherited or acquired. Common malocclusions include crowding of teeth, prominent teeth, too much space between teeth, extra or missing teeth and a variety of irregularities of the jaws and face. Thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, dental disease, premature loss of primary or permanent teeth, or accidents can cause malocclusions.

Crowded and overlapping teeth are harder to clean and can increase the risk of tooth decay, gum disease and eventual tooth loss. Having your teeth straightened will make it easier for you to look after them.

A malocclusion may also contribute to speech impairments and increase the risk of trauma if teeth are prominent. Abnormal or uneven wear of tooth surfaces can also occur if there is poor alignment of the teeth or jaws. In cases of deep bite, the lower front teeth can bite into the gum behind the upper front teeth causing damage.

At one time, most people believed braces were only for children. However, teeth can be moved at any age as long as the gum and bone is healthy. Therefore, orthodontic treatment can usually be successful at any age. However, because an adult's facial bones are no longer growing, some severe malocclusions cannot be corrected with braces alone. In such cases, orthodontic treatment combined with jaw surgery can achieve dramatic improvements.

It is usually wise to have an orthodontic consultation around nine years of age. Some orthodontic problems are easier to correct if detected early, rather than waiting until jaw growth has slowed. Early examination allows the orthodontist to detect and evaluate problems and plan appropriate treatment. Early treatment may prevent more serious problems from developing or make treatment at a later age shorter and less complicated. However, in other cases, treatment will not commence until all the baby teeth have been lost.

On average, orthodontic treatment is approximately eighteen to twenty-four months in duration. However, the length of treatment will depend on the severity of the original malocclusion as well as the type of treatment carried out, and the co-operation of the patient. At the completion of the active part of orthodontic treatment, the braces are removed and retaining appliances (retainers) are fitted to hold the teeth steady in their new position. These appliances may be removable plates or wires fitted behind the teeth. Retainers play an important role in orthodontic treatment, if they are not worn according to instructions, the teeth may move back towards their original position.

Successful orthodontic treatment depends on the understanding and cooperation of the patient. Although there are many benefits to be gained from orthodontic treatment, there are also potential risks associated with this type of treatment. Although these risks are generally not serious, they still should be considered when making the decision to undergo orthodontic treatment.

Oral health

Tooth decay, gum disease, and permanent markings (decalcification) on the teeth can occur if orthodontic patients eat foods containing excessive sugar and acids and allow plaque to accumulate around braces. This may occur without orthodontic treatment but the risk is greater when wearing braces. Inflammation of the gums and loss of supporting bone can occur if bacterial plaque is not removed regularly with good oral hygiene. Be sure to continue to visit Richmond Fine Dentistry at least every six months while orthodontic treatment is progressing. Use of Fluorides and tooth conditioner is highly recommended.

Relapse

Teeth may have a tendency to change their position after treatment. This is called relapse. The faithful wearing of retainers should reduce this tendency. Teeth can however, move at any time whether or not they have been orthodontically treated. This may be caused by growth and maturational changes, mouth breathing, playing a musical instrument and other oral habits.

Tooth vitality

Where a tooth has been injured by a previous accident or contains a large filling, damage to the nerve of the tooth may result. In rare instances, this may lead to loss of tooth vitality and discolouration of the tooth requiring root canal treatment or other dental treatment to restore the colour of the tooth.

Treatment time

The total time required to complete treatment may exceed the estimate. Poor cooperation, poor oral hygiene, broken appliances and missed appointments can lengthen the treatment time and affect the quality of the result. Cooperation throughout treatment is your contribution to a pleasing appearance and good bite. Failure to cooperate may require the orthodontist to change the goals of your treatment.

General health

General medical problems can affect orthodontic treatment. You should keep your orthodontist informed of any changes to your medical health or any medication you may be taking.

Soft tissue damage

Braces may cause some irritation to the soft tissue of the mouth. If improperly handled, the headgear may also cause injury to the face or eyes. Patients are warned not to wear headgear during times of rough play or competitive activity. Although our headgears are equipped with a safety system, we urge caution at all times.

Mouthguards

It is strongly recommended that you obtain a special mouthguard if you play any form of sport that may result in injury to the teeth. Talk to us at Richmond Fine Dentistry, we can construct and fit specialised orthodontic mouthguards.

Any dentist may carry out orthodontic treatment, but the vast majority of cases are handled by specialist orthodontists who have restricted their practice to orthodontics exclusively. Some severe orthodontic cases also require oral and maxillofacial surgery. We can coordinate the course of care by appropriate referral to specialists.