Creating smiles
Dentists are able to improve not only our smiles but the general appearance of our face. Orthodontic treatment influences the way the face shapes and forms over time. An orthodontist chooses a course of action for our individual situation. In this case, orthodontics, are in charge of moving the teeth into a better position. This will give us a more aesthetic look.
Orthodontics is a subspecialty of dentistry which studies and treats improper bites. Improper bites may result from tooth irregularity, positioning or disproportionate jaw relationships. The word orthodontics is Greek. Ortho meaning straight and Odont meaning tooth.
Orthodontic treatment may focus on improving poor positioning of teeth and bite. But can also improve the general appearance of a person’s face in relation to their mouth such as;
The position of the teeth and how they fit into the framework of the face and jaw. As well as how the upper and lower jaws relate to each other.
The process to a better smile
Proper evaluation of your dental situation if fundamental for best results.
Also, know and research the many options available with the help of your general dentist.
Working with experienced dental professionals will allow the development of a personalized plan. They will go over the options with you and together determine the best course of action.
Orthodontic Training
An orthodontist has advanced specialty training in several areas. Some general dentists also practice orthodontic treatment. Orthodontics requires an understanding of how to move teeth into the right position. Done through three operating principles:
Development: The growth and development of the teeth and jaws.
Alignment: The alignment of teeth within the dental arches or jaws.
Occlusion: The bite or how teeth come together and function in harmony with the jaw joints.
So the problem can, there must be a clear understanding of how and why the teeth came to be in their present position. As with most things, this takes a careful assessment or diagnosis. Dental and medical histories are necessary to find out if your eligible to undergo orthodontic treatment. As well as the following;
- Impressions to make molds of your teeth and the way they meet.
- Articulated models put in a machine called an articulator. This replicates jaw movement for study purposes.
- Specialized x-rays of the teeth and jaws.
- Photographs of your smile and position of the teeth.
- Computer imaging.
First, these records help orthodontist determine the best plan of action. Also, records are necessary to understand how to stabilize the teeth. This will prevent the teeth from moving back or relapsing after the treatment is over.
Orthodontic appliances, best known as braces are small brackets placed on teeth. Through these little flexible wires are threaded.
These small wires place light forces on the teeth. Apart from the wires moving teeth into place properties of the periodontal ligament which attaches the tooth to the bone also helps them move. The periodontal ligament is elastic this results in micro-movement of the teeth. Since these tissues are living, they are changing. Pressure on teeth makes the cells remove bone and ligament to allow the tooth to move.