Orthodontics

Orthodontics

Orthodontics is a device designed to move teeth. It gradually moves the teeth to make them aligned and healthy.

There are several reasons for orthodontic treatment, including:

• Improper alignment of the teeth, such as having extra teeth or a narrow jaw.
• Crowding of the teeth and unevenness of their size.
• The presence of gaps between the teeth.
• Missing or buried teeth in the patient.
• Protruding front teeth.
• Mismatch of the jaws.
• Bone deformities due to bad habits, such as thumb sucking or tongue thrusting.

Orthodontics has several benefits, including:

• Functional: It corrects chewing and speech.
• Aesthetic: It makes the teeth aligned and healthy, which protects them from decay caused by food residue accumulation between the teeth.

Orthodontic treatment can be performed for all age groups, not just children. However, there is an optimal age range, which is between 10 and 16 years old. This is due to the growth of the body and bones during this period. However, it can be performed for all age groups, but the treatment duration will be longer than for children, relatively. This will depend on the problem of the teeth and the treatment plan.

Types of orthodontics:

• Metal braces: This is the most common type and is used for all age groups. It is more effective for difficult cases and is fixed on the teeth.
• Ceramic braces: It is similar to metal braces, but it is made of ceramic to match the color of the teeth.
• Clear removable braces: It is made of clear plastic and are easy for the patient to remove and put on.

Procedure for installing braces:

• We start by examining the teeth in the clinic and understanding the patient's complaint.

• Then, we examine the teeth with orthodontic X-rays, which are available at Hayat Dental Center.

• Based on this, the appropriate treatment plan and type of braces are selected for the patient.

• Then, the braces are installed and the patient is notified of the importance of regular follow-up and adherence to the scheduled appointments with the treating physician.

• The patient is then informed of all the instructions to be followed during the orthodontic period. For metal braces, these instructions include:

  • After installing the braces, the patient may feel some pain, but it will go away within the first few days. It is not harmful to take painkillers, as this is due to the potential pressure on the teeth.
  • Avoid hard foods, such as nuts.
  • Avoid foods that stick easily to the teeth.
  • Avoid carbonated drinks.
  • Hard fruits and vegetables, such as apples and carrots, should be cut.
  • Pay attention to using a toothbrush and toothpaste after each meal, carefully on all teeth.
  • Pay attention to using mouthwash well after each meal.

• For clear braces:

  • The braces must be worn for at least 20 hours a day.
  • Make sure that the braces are worn correctly according to the correct order of the braces and know the difference between the upper and lower jaws.
  • When wearing the braces, gently press on the front teeth area, then press on the back teeth with the tips of your fingers.
  • there may be an initial gap when you first wear the orthodontic appliance, but this will disappear within 48 hours. It is also possible that it is raised from the back at the molar area, and this will also disappear within days.
  • In case of loss or breakage of the orthodontic appliance, try the next device in the order. If it is difficult to enter, you should see a doctor.
  • You should not dispose of any device that has been used previously, and each device should be placed in its case.

After orthodontic treatment, the teeth are stabilized. This is one of the most important steps, and the method and duration of stabilization vary from person to person.