Orthodontics

woman teeth and smile. Close up,half with bracesORTHODONTIC TREATMENT (BRACES)

Dental braces (also known as orthodontic braces) are devices used in orthodontics that align and straighten teeth and help to position them with regard to a person’s bite, while also working to improve dental health. They are often used to correct underbites, as well as malocclusions, overbites, cross bites, open bites, deep bites, crooked teeth, and various other flaws of the teeth and jaw.

Crooked teeth and teeth that do not fit together correctly are harder to keep clean, are at risk of being lost early due to tooth decay and periodontal disease and cause extra stress on the chewing muscles that can lead to headaches, jaw aches and neck, shoulder and back pain. Braces can be either cosmetic or structural.

‘The application of braces moves the teeth as a result of force and constant pressure on the teeth. This movement needs to be done slowly otherwise the patient risks losing his or her teeth. This is why braces are commonly worn for approximately two and a half years and adjustments are only made every three or four weeks.

The benefits of orthodontic treatment include a healthier mouth, a more pleasing appearance, and teeth that are more likely to last a lifetime