Orthodontics

What is Orthodontics?

Orthodontics is the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of tooth mis-alignment, jaw, face and bite irregularities Orthodontic treatment is provided by a dentist or an orthodontist.

Orthodontic treatment and care has dramatically changed in the past few years. New treatment methods make the process much easier and often quicker than in the past. Preventative dentistry has dramatically reduced the number of incidences of cavities and other oral ailments and so people are looking more at improving the cosmetic appearance of their mouth.  This increasing awareness on the health and look of a patient’s smile has fueled the desire for many to seek out orthodontia not only as a medical necessity, but for cosmetic reasons as well.

Orthodontic treatments traditionally were geared toward the treatment of teens and pre-teens, but today nearly 30 percent of orthodontic patients are adults-even those in their 60’s and 70’s.

A few of the advantages to well-aligned teeth, including easier cleaning, less incidence of periodontal disease, better oral hygiene, clearer speech and a more pleasant smile. Though orthodontic treatment can be effective at any age, the American Dental Association suggests that an orthodontic assessment should be performed around the age of seven. The earlier orthodontic treatment begins, the more quickly the problem can be successfully resolved.

What problems can be treated with orthodontics?

Orthodontic treatment is sometimes used alone or in combination with maxillofacial surgery and/or cosmetic dentistry.

Some of the common conditions treated with orthodontics are:

• Anteroposterior deviations – The difference between closed jaws is known as an anteroposterior discrepancy or deviation.  An example of such a discrepancy would be an overbite (the upper teeth are further forward than the lower teeth), or an underbite (where the lower teeth are further forward then the upper teeth).
• Overcrowding – Overcrowding is a common orthodontic problem. This occurs when there is an insufficient space for the normal growth and development of adult teeth.
• Aesthetic problems – A beautiful straight smile may sometimes be off slightly because of a single misaligned tooth. This tooth can be realigned with ease by orthodontics.

Orthodontic Solutions

Orthodontics is a technologically advanced field that offers many sophisticated solutions to malocclusions and other cosmetic problems. Dr. Engelmann will perform a visual examination, x-rays and study models to assess the exact nature your concerns and treatment goals and to determine the best treatment options for you.

When a diagnosis has been made, there are a variety of orthodontic treatment options available.

Here is an overview of some of the most common treatments:

• Invisalign^® – Is a removable type of dental aligner that is completely transparent. Invisalign^® does not interfere with eating because of its removable nature, and works in the same way as the traditional metal braces. Not all patients are candidates for Invisalign^®.
• Fixed orthodontic braces – A metal or ceramic dental base is affixed to each tooth, and a dental wire is inserted through each base.  The orthodontist is able to gradually train the teeth into proper alignment by regularly adjusting the wire. When the desired results are achieved, the fixed dental braces are completely removed.
• Removable appliances – There are a wide range of removable appliances commonly used in orthodontics, including headgear that correct overbites, Hawley retainers that improve the position of the teeth even as the jawbone reforms, and facemasks which are used to correct an underbite.