What is Orthodontics?

Orthodontics is the specialty field of dentistry dealing primarily with mal-positioned teeth and the jaws by diagnosis, prevention and correction. The technical term for crooked, crowded or protruding teeth is ‘malocclusion’ and is where the teeth are not correctly positioned when the mouth is closed with the upper and lower teeth in contact, resulting in an improper bite. This may impact the shape of the face and the appearance of the teeth and can result in embarrassment and lack of self-confidence. Malocclusion is often an inherited condition, but heredity is not the only cause; it often stems from early loss of primary teeth, thumb-sucking and other oral habits. The practice of orthodontics involves designing and using corrective appliances to treat and improve these problems.

Orthodontists aim to achieve the following:

• closing spaces between teeth

• aligning and straightening crooked teeth

• improving speech and chewing ability

• boosting the long-term health of gingiva and teeth

• preventing long-term excessive wear and trauma to the teeth – all within the scope of treating an improper bite relationship.

If patients are examined at an early age, preventive and interceptive orthodontics alone can often correct malocclusions.

Orthodontics Can…

• Enhance your appearance, confidence, self-esteem, the way you look and feel.

• Protect your teeth from damage or decay and help improve chewing ability and speech.

• An orthodontist will utilize a wide range of appliances including headgear, bite-plates, fixed and removable braces.