Oral Health and Maxillofacial Research

Orthodontics

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Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that focuses on identifying, preventing, and treating malocclusions, which include abnormalities of the jaw and teeth. Producing the optimal occlusion with improved function and aesthetics is the ultimate goal. Overbite, underbite, crossbite, open bite, crowding, and spacing are all referred to as malocclusions. Environmental circumstances, developmental abnormalities, or genetic predispositions are the causes of them. Untreated malocclusions can result in several problems, including temporomandibular joint disorders, periodontal disease, dental caries susceptibility, speech impairment, and masticatory impairment.

Orthodontic Treatment Modalities

The particular malocclusion and patient characteristics connected to the situation determine the best course of treatment:

Fixed Appliances (Braces): Conventional metal braces are made up of brackets that are bonded to teeth and connected by ligatures and archwires. The teeth can move gradually thanks to the controlled forces exerted by these components. Other possibilities include lingual braces, which are less apparent since they are affixed to the tongue-side of the teeth, and ceramic braces, which provide a more aesthetically pleasing option. Throughout treatment, which lasts one to three years, the teeth must be successfully shifted through periodic adjustments.

Removable Appliances (Clear Aligners): Invisalign and other clear aligners are customized, thin, transparent trays that shift teeth over time. For a week or two, the patient wears each new pair of aligners, taking them off only to eat and brush their teeth. Teenagers and adults who want a less obvious option to fix braces are big fans of the surgery. However, for the operation to be successful, patient compliance is necessary.

Functional Appliances: These appliances, which include Herbst appliances and palatal expanders, are primarily utilized in growing patients to repair skeletal discrepancies and impact jaw growth. Functional appliances can improve occlusal interactions and possibly reduce the need for more extensive treatment down the road by influencing jaw growth.

Retention Appliances: Retainers are used to maintain teeth in their new position following active orthodontic treatment. Patients must adhere to wear regimens for either permanent or removable retainers to prevent recurrence.

Interdisciplinary Considerations

Coordination with other dental and medical specialists is a common aspect of orthodontic treatment:

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery: Orthognathic surgery may be necessary for extremely severe skeletal malocclusions or jaw discrepancies to achieve both functional and aesthetic harmony.

Periodontics: In order to achieve the best outcomes and prevent exacerbation of pre-existing disorders, orthodontic treatment should not start before the periodontal state of patients has stabilized.

Prosthodontics: To ensure proper alignment and occlusion, prosthodontists must be involved in the design of restorative procedures such as dental implants or prosthetic replacements.