ORTHODONTICS
Orthodontics is intended to fix an improper bite or crowded teeth for either health or cosmetic reasons.
Crooked teeth or teeth that do not align are harder to keep clean and are therefore at a greater risk of being lost due to tooth decay.
An improper bite can make everyday activities like eating and talking problematic, and causes unnecessary stress on jaw muscles that can also lead to headaches. An improper bite includes one or more of the following irregularities:
Crooked teeth or teeth that do not align are harder to keep clean and are therefore at a greater risk of being lost due to tooth decay.
An improper bite can make everyday activities like eating and talking problematic, and causes unnecessary stress on jaw muscles that can also lead to headaches. An improper bite includes one or more of the following irregularities:
- Overbite – The upper teeth protrude further than or completely cover the lower teeth.
- Underbite – The lower teeth protrude further than the upper teeth causing the chin to look prominent.
- Crossbite – Some of the upper teeth may close inside the lower teeth rather than on the outside.
- Overcrowding – Insufficient room on the arch causes some adult teeth to erupt incorrectly and become rotated.
Stage 1 orthodontics (3-12 years old)
The main goal of early treatment is to provide enough space for the permanent teeth to erupt correctly.
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Stage 2 orthodontics (12+ years)
Stage 2 orthodontics focus on straightening the permanent teeth and improving the appearance of the smile.
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Originator Clear Aligner System
With an increased awareness of aesthetics, more patients are demanding a simple treatment plan to achieve a beautiful smile. The cost of Originator Basic System can be less than other clear aligner treatments and you can be confident that your customised tray will fit perfectly.
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FAQs
Is orthodontic treatment just for teenagers?
The best age bracket for receiving orthodontic treatment is between the ages of 5 and 14, as during this period a lot of growth in the jawbone occurs and it is easier to correct misalignment of either teeth or jaw.
There are however also many reasons that teeth can crowd as a person ages, which then makes orthodontic treatment during a later stage in life necessary.
How long will I have to undergo orthodontic treatment?
The length of treatment varies significantly depending on the severity of the problem. Braces are prescribed for between 18 and 24 months, with a few months of retention treatment afterwards to maintain alignment and help bone grow in firmly around the repositioned teeth. Adult orthodontic patients are however more likely to need lifetime retention, while younger patients will only need to use temporary retention post treatment.
Do orthodontic devices or braces hurt?
As orthodontic treatment involves the realignment of teeth and the jaw through pressure, patients might experience discomfort and sometimes dull pain during the first few days after the initial application and subsequent adjustments.
While the braces protrude somewhat from the teeth, the saliva in your mouth acts as a natural lubricant to keep them from hurting your lips and cheeks.
There are also many products on the market designed especially to make wearing braces more comfortable, and you can always ask your dentist to recommend one.
Is orthodontic treatment expensive?
The cost of treatment always depends on the treatment that is necessary. We always recommend that you visit us first for an initial consultation after which we can give you a better idea of the costs involved. You have only one set of teeth, and to keep them healthy from the start is much cheaper than replacing them at a later stage.
The best age bracket for receiving orthodontic treatment is between the ages of 5 and 14, as during this period a lot of growth in the jawbone occurs and it is easier to correct misalignment of either teeth or jaw.
There are however also many reasons that teeth can crowd as a person ages, which then makes orthodontic treatment during a later stage in life necessary.
How long will I have to undergo orthodontic treatment?
The length of treatment varies significantly depending on the severity of the problem. Braces are prescribed for between 18 and 24 months, with a few months of retention treatment afterwards to maintain alignment and help bone grow in firmly around the repositioned teeth. Adult orthodontic patients are however more likely to need lifetime retention, while younger patients will only need to use temporary retention post treatment.
Do orthodontic devices or braces hurt?
As orthodontic treatment involves the realignment of teeth and the jaw through pressure, patients might experience discomfort and sometimes dull pain during the first few days after the initial application and subsequent adjustments.
While the braces protrude somewhat from the teeth, the saliva in your mouth acts as a natural lubricant to keep them from hurting your lips and cheeks.
There are also many products on the market designed especially to make wearing braces more comfortable, and you can always ask your dentist to recommend one.
Is orthodontic treatment expensive?
The cost of treatment always depends on the treatment that is necessary. We always recommend that you visit us first for an initial consultation after which we can give you a better idea of the costs involved. You have only one set of teeth, and to keep them healthy from the start is much cheaper than replacing them at a later stage.
