Orthodontics

Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry which deals with the treatment of malocclusion of teeth, improper bite, tooth irregularity, disproportionate jaw relationships.

Dental braces are used to correct teeth that are crowded, crooked, protruding, out of alignment or have irregular spaces.

Stages of orthodontic treatment: First consultation

During the first visit the patient is examined by our specialized dentist. To formulate the best possible orthodontic plan the patient is advised to  undergo orthodontic evaluation that includes:

• Oral, facial and functional examination

• Study model impression for teeth and bite

• Facial photographs

• Panoramic (opg) and cephalometric x-rays

Treatment planning

In the 2nd visit our highly skilled orthodontist (specialized dentist in the field of orthodontics)  discusses the treatment plan with the patient on the basis of case analysis obtained from orthodontic evaluation during which he estimates the duration of the treatment,  number of sittings required, treatment options available, and approximate cost etc.

In some cases extractions of few teeth may be required.

Extractions and preliminary procedures

Sometimes extractions may be required to gain sufficient space to align the crooked teeth. Ideally before commencing the orthodontic treatment the patient is advised to go for cleaning of teeth (scaling and polishing) and all the decays need to be filled.

Dental braces

Bands, brackets, archwire, elastic ties are the appliances used for orthodontic treatment. They come in various shapes, size, colours etc. 

Fitting 1 arch of braces usually takes 1 hour.

Braces remain on the teeth for the entire duration of treatment.

Patient needs to visit dentist every 4-6 weeks for adjustments, wire changes etc. Some braces let to have visits every 3 months.

The patient may need to wear items like rubber bands and/or headgears to provide extra forces for the correction of bite.

Duration of orthodontic treatment

Duration of the treatment depends on many factors like complexity of the case, age of the patient, the type of the treatment and patient cooperation etc. usually it takes from 6 months to 24 months.

Retainers

After the completion of the orthodontic treatment the patient is advised to wear retaining appliances (retainers) to prevent relapse and to hold the teeth in new position.