Dental braces (Orthodontic cases)
Content
Description
Part of a beautiful smile are teeth that are not only healthy, but also aligned. Crooked, crowded or gapped teeth and bad bite (malocclusion) can lead to tooth decay, bone loss or gum infection.
- The position of the teeth can be adjusted by constant pressure using dental braces (we are talking about remodeling the position of the teeth).
- Dental braces are used as fixed or removable braces.
- The choice of the type of dental cases depends on how far the teeth are deviated from the ideal position.
- Furthermore, it is a rule that only healthy teeth can be moved, therefore they must not have decay.
- The position of the teeth can be changed at any age, but ideally the teeth are adjusted in children in the growth phase (starting at 7 - 9 years of life) - some neglected disorders of the position of the teeth cannot be corrected in adulthood and the consequences thus last a lifetime.
- Dental braces are therefore orthodontic devices used to correct the position of the teeth (correction of bite - occlusion). Orthodontics are performed by dentists with special education or orthodontists.
Facts
- No need for anesthesia
- Outpatient procedure
- Procedure takes up to 1 hour
- Treatment lasts 2-3 years
Fixed dental braces are used for larger bite deviations (overbite, deep bite, etc.).
The preparation and fitting of a fixed appliance goes through several steps.
- First, the teeth are examined for decay, an X-ray is required and impressions of the teeth are taken to make a plaster cast. Then the treatment process is planned.
- The treatment begins with sticking orthodontic brackets which are plastic, metal or ceramic. Bonding (bands) that wrap around the teeth are also used.
- The brackets are connected with an arch wire which exert constant pressure.
Removable dental braces are a suitable solution for children in the period of growth and with mixed dentition (when part of the teeth are milk, part of the teeth are already permanent).
They are used for minor irregularities in the position of the teeth.
Invisible braces (Clear aligners or Invisalign/ClearCorrect - according to the brand names) are more modern types of braces that are custom-made for the patient according to the impression of the teeth - they do not restrict speech or eating.
They are soft plastic trays that are removable (similar to the mouth guards worn by athletes).
Their disadvantage is that they must be replaced regularly to adjust the pressure and pull on the teeth when moving them to the desired position (every 2 weeks). They are also more expensive than regular braces.
Lingual braces are similar to traditional fixed braces, but brackets and wires are put on the inner side of the teeth, so they are hidden.
Sometimes, after completing of orthodontic treatment (with dental braces), custom-made retention braces are made for the patient to keep the teeth in their new position.
If they are not worn, it may happen that the teeth return to their original position again.
In order to be able to change the position of the teeth, it is necessary for the teeth to be healthy and therefore hygiene must not be neglected. Dental brances even require increased oral hygiene.
You should go to your dentist for regular check-ups (every 2 - 3 months), because the position of the teeth changes gradually and it is necessary to adjust the individual parts of the brace so that the pressure and tension are always in the correct position.
Dental braces are individual for each patient and therefore the treatment and check-ups are adjusted accordingly.