Types of orthodontics
Orthodontics is a specialized field of dentistry that focuses on diagnosing, preventing and correcting poor position of the teeth and jaws.
There are different types of orthodontic treatments designed to address different dental problems.
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Traditional metal braces:
- This is the most common type of braces, and consists of a metal bracket attached to the teeth and connected to wires.
They are highly effective for correcting a wide range of dental misalignments. - Ceramic calendar:
- Like metal braces, ceramic braces use tooth-colored or clear brackets,
making them less noticeable.
They are very popular among individuals who want a less visible option for orthodontic treatment. -
Linguistic brackets:
- Lingual braces are attached to the back (lingual) surface of the teeth,
making them almost invisible from the front.
They work similarly to traditional braces but are hidden from view. - : Clear aligners, such as Invisalign,
are clear plastic trays specifically designed to fit the teeth.
They are removable and gradually align the teeth.
Clear aligners are popular because of their aesthetic appeal and comfort. - These braces use brackets that do not require elastic bands to hold the wires in place.
Instead, they have built-
in clips or doors to secure the wires.
Self-ligating braces are thought to reduce friction and treatment time compared to traditional braces. - Palate expanders:
- Palatal expanders are used to widen the upper jaw to correct problems such as crowding or narrow palate.
They are commonly used in children before the jaw bones have fully fused. -
Functional devices:
- These devices are used to correct discrepancies in jaw size or position.
They work by affecting the growth of the jaws and are often used with braces. - gib:
- Retainers are worn after orthodontic treatment to maintain the new position of the teeth.
They can be removable or fixed (attached to the teeth). -
Surgical orthodontics:
- In some cases of severe malocclusion or jaw misalignment,
orthodontic treatment may be combined with orthodontic surgery to reposition the jaws.
Each type of orthodontic treatment has its advantages and is chosen based on factors such as the severity
of dental problems, patient preferences, and the orthodontist’s recommendation.