It is a branch of dentistry that regulates crowded teeth and incompatible jaw relationships with the help of a set of apparatus.
Dentists who undertake orthodontic treatment are called orthodontists.
Orthodontic treatment is applied during the period of milk teeth and the problems that arise due to habits such as finger sucking and lip eating are eliminated.
With orthodontic treatment, a permanent disorder in the skeletal structure of the jaw is prevented.
The mixed dentition period is also within the scope of orthodontics. In this period, both milk teeth and permanent teeth are in the mouth.
If the deciduous teeth are lost prematurely and cannot guide the underlying permanent teeth, space constrictions occur.
Orthodontics deals with the elimination of these space constrictions. At the same time, jaw development continues during this period.
Inter-jaw incompatibility, which occurs as a result of the development of the upper and lower jaws not occurring in harmony with each other, is also within the scope of orthodontics.
During the period of permanent teeth, orthodontics deals with the correction of disorders in the tooth rows.
The treatment of irregularities caused by gum diseases and the treatment of irregularities caused by congenitally missing or subsequently lost teeth are also within the scope of orthodontics.
– Fixed Orthodontic Treatment:
As the name suggests, fixed orthodontic treatment is orthodontic treatment using fixed appliances that the patient cannot remove. In fixed orthodontic treatment, a corrugated metal called a bracket (porcelain brackets are also used today) is attached to the teeth. A wire passes through this groove. This wire is changed at 4-6 week intervals.
– Removable Orthodontic Treatment:
Removable orthodontic treatment is orthodontic treatment using appliances that the patient can put on and take off by himself/herself. Removable orthodontic treatment is mostly applied in children between the ages of 6-12. In some cases, both fixed and removable orthodontic treatment may need to be applied.
Things to Consider During Orthodontic Treatment
Before starting orthodontic treatment, all caries and gum diseases in the mouth should be treated. Regardless of fixed orthodontic treatment or removable orthodontic treatment, attention should be paid to oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment.
If a removable orthodontic appliance is used, the appliance should be removed and teeth should be brushed after meals. The same attention should be paid to the hygiene of the orthodontic appliance.
The brackets used in fixed orthodontic treatment are very suitable areas for the accumulation of food residues.
Therefore, after meals, orthodontic toothbrushes should be used to carefully remove food residues between the brackets and wires.
If oral hygiene is not taken care of, cavities and gum problems are inevitable during orthodontic treatment.
Orthodontic treatment is a long-lasting treatment and there are monthly controls. For this reason, the person should be eager for orthodontic treatment and should not disrupt his/her appointments.
In case of breakage, rupture or dislocation of the orthodontic appliance used in any way, it is necessary to consult an orthodontic specialist without wasting time, as the treatment may be adversely affected.
Reinforcement treatment is very important in orthodontic treatment. In order to maintain the position of the teeth, reinforcement treatment must be followed.
1 - Metal Bracket
Advantages of the Metal Bracket System: l It is more economical than other systems. l It gives faster results than other systems. l The bracket is durable and less likely to be damaged.
Disadvantages of the Metal Bracket System: l It can be considered a disadvantage that it is more visible on the teeth than other treatment options.
2 - Aesthetic Bracket
Advantages of Aesthetic Bracket System: l The biggest advantage is that it is more aesthetic and less noticeable. l Allergic reactions to metal in some people are not seen in ceramic systems.
Disadvantages of Aesthetic Bracket System: l It is more costly than metal bracket systems. l It may be a little more fragile than metal brackets. l It gives slower results compared to metal braces. (However, this slowness is expressed as a period of 2-3 months. A 2-3 month prolongation of the 1-1.5 year treatment period may not be a period that will make much difference for the patient).
3 - Invisalign Transparent plate
Traditional braces are made of stainless steel. Metal brackets are cemented onto the teeth and force is applied to the teeth with wires connected to the brackets. With the applied forces, the teeth are moved to their desired position.
Transparent braces are similar in concept, but the braces are made of ceramic, not metal. Ceramic is transparent, so they are much less noticeable in your mouth. Arc braces can also be transparent to improve their fit.
Clear braces work in the same way as traditional braces, so they are suitable for the majority of patients who need orthodontic correction.
However, clear braces cost more and are more sensitive than traditional braces. Your orthodontist will tell you if clear braces are suitable for your case.
Clear aligners are recommended for patients who do not want to wear braces and want to correct the crowding of their teeth. Transparent aligners are custom-made dental aligners that allow the crowding of the teeth to be corrected by means of an invisible transparent aligner that covers all the teeth in a transparent way.
Orthodontic treatment varies from person to person. It usually lasts between 18-24 months, but in some cases it can be shorter or longer. The duration of the treatment depends on the complexity of the problem that needs to be treated and the patient's response to the treatment.
Mild discomfort or pain may be experienced during orthodontic treatment, especially when the brackets or wires are first placed or adjusted. However, this pain is usually temporary and can be easily controlled with painkillers.
Orthodontic treatment can be performed at any age. However, in children and teenagers, treatment is usually more effective as they are still growing and developing. Adults can also receive orthodontic treatment, but the treatment process may take a little longer.
The cost of orthodontic treatment depends on the type of treatment, its duration and the complexity of the condition that needs to be treated. It is best to speak to an orthodontist to get more precise information about the cost of treatment.
Brackets and wires need to be cleaned regularly to function properly. You may need to increase your brushing and flossing habits and use special instruments. Also, avoiding hard and sticky foods can prevent damage to the brackets.
A retainer (a fixed or removable appliance) is usually used to prevent the teeth from returning to their old position after treatment. Regular use of the retainer helps the teeth to maintain their new position.
