Orthodontics is a discipline of dentistry which deals particularly with the diagnosis, treatment and modification of malocclusion or misaligned bite patterns and related malformationations. It may also specialize in correcting facial growth, called dentofacial orthodontics. The most common orthodontic issues are overbite and under bite, which cause problems when chewing and smiling, as well as throughout other facial movements.
To begin the path toward orthodontic programs in the dental school of your choice, you will need to complete an oral diagnostic exam. Depending on the level of your dental school, this could be a written exam or a behavioral assessment. You will have to pass a psychological and physical exam, as well. Once you have completed your oral and behavioral exams, you will be advised by the clinical division what to do next. There are many options available to orthodontists, including:
* Root canal therapy. This is the process of cleaning or removing the infected or inflamed pulp tissue inside the tooth, which is usually found in the back area. An orthodontist will perform this procedure along with scaling, bonding, and root planning. Your dentist will also decide if you require extraction, depend on how far down the tooth has gone. If the pulp reaches the nerve, orthodontics may include nerves extraction surgery to treat any affected areas of the nervous system.
* Bonding. When a tooth has been worn down due to dry mouth, cavities or gum disease, orthodontics may recommend bonding as a solution to the problem. This bonding is done by creating a composite resin and installing it on the tooth, as well as surrounding gum tissue.
* Invisalign. Some dentists use Invisalign aligners for patients who have severe issues with their bite and posture. Invisalign aligners are removable braces that can be taken out and replaced with a new aligner when the patient is at home or work. An initial consultation may be necessary to discuss which Invisalign system will be best for your needs.
* Bonding or invisalign aligners. After determining that all issues with your teeth are not severe enough to warrant the need for orthodontic treatment, your dentist may suggest Invisalign or similar orthodontic equipment. Many dentists also use the same technology in conjunction with other dental surgery options.
* Bonding. Bonding is one of the least invasive forms of orthodontics, as it does not require removal of any enamel or underlying bones. This treatment option is often used to correct minor aesthetic problems such as a gap-toothed smile. The bonding agent will bond the teeth together after the braces have been removed.
Orthodontics has improved a great deal over the past few decades. Thanks to the advancement of cosmetic dentistry, patients’ smiles can improve drastically with the assistance of orthodontics. Visit an orthodontist today to find out which orthodontics may be right for you. If your teeth do not meet your expectations, a quick chat with a friendly orthodontist will help you determine whether orthodontics treatments are right for you. From bonded enamel to brackets to clear braces, you can have a beautiful smile, no matter what issues you are dealing with.
Orthodontics dentistry treats adults just as well as children. Since orthodontics addresses the entire body, problems that occur in adults can also occur in children. In addition to improving a child’s smile, orthodontics can also help to straighten jaws that may be affected by arthritis or injury. As a general rule, orthodontics is a broad medical specialty that can be applied to almost every part of the body.
However, orthodontics is much more than straightening teeth. Although this is important, it is not the only factor that should be considered when deciding upon orthodontics. One of the most common orthodontic procedures is the placement of dental appliances. These include brackets and retainers. Braces and retainers can help to eliminate the appearance of gaps in between teeth and can straighten crooked teeth. Braces can also help to restore facial alignment.
Some orthodontics focuses on appliances that promote jaw alignment. By keeping the upper and lower jaw aligned, it can help to prevent the occurrence of headaches, toothaches and bad breath. This can be especially beneficial for adults who have become used to sleeping with crooked teeth. In addition to promoting jaw alignment, orthodontics can also provide a way to protect the tissues of the mouth from damage.
An additional advantage of orthodontics is that it can help to keep clean and healthy teeth. Dentists often install retainers in order to pull teeth gently, which allows them to work with the tooth for proper alignment. However, some of these appliances can be hard to keep clean. If an orthodontic specialty training program has been completed, it is highly likely that a dentist will have a number of helpful tools to help with maintaining teeth and their overall health.
