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Comprehensive Guide to Orthodontics: Achieving a Perfect Smile

Orthodontics is a specialty field in dentistry that involves the diagnosis, prevention, and correction of crooked teeth, jaws, and unfavourable bite patterns. Orthodontic treatment is most known for teeth straightening. Dentists that specialise in this treatment are called orthodontists.

At Orthodontix our specialist orthodontists will provide you with caring and professional consultation to get the smile you always wanted.

What does orthodontics treat?

Crooked or crowded teeth.
Incorrect biting patterns.
Severe misalignment of teeth and/or jaws.
Past habits such as thumb sucking that have affected the position of the tooth and development of the jaw bones.

Orthodontic treatment is not just about straight teeth. It can correct a bad biting pattern, help with sleep apnoea, and prevent uneven wear of the teeth.

When to have a consult

Orthodontic treatment can be performed on children, adolescents, and adults.
The Australian Society of Orthodontists’ recommend children have an orthodontic assessment between the ages of 7 – 10. All the adult teeth do not have to be present in the mouth for an assessment to be done. An examination at this age can allow for early intervention treatment should it be needed.

Braces

Traditional metal braces have been used for about a hundred years and are still commonly used to straighten teeth. A similar option is ceramic braces which are the same as metal braces but made from white or tooth-coloured ceramic material. They are not completely invisible but are less obvious than metal braces. Another option is lingual braces. These metal braces are stuck to the inside surface of the teeth making them practically invisible.

Clear aligners

Clear aligners provide an alternate option for straightening teeth besides traditional braces. Many people will know them by their individual brand name. Clear aligners are custom made thin plastic trays that are worn over the teeth to straighten them. The trays should be worn at all times other than when eating and drinking liquids other than water. Drinking liquids such as fruit juice or soft drink while wearing clear aligners can trap the liquids against the teeth, which can cause damage to the teeth if it happens frequently.

Although the aligners are clear plastic, they are not invisible. Your dentist or orthodontist will advise you if clear aligners are suitable for your individual situation.

BOOK a free invisalign consultation with one of our specialist orthodontists.