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 Orthodontics is a dental specialty that centers on the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of malocclusion or a “bad bite”. Orthodontic treatment consists of the design and application of corrective devices such as braces to correct malocclusion and bring the jaw, teeth, and lips into proper alignment.
There are many causes of malocclusion but they all fall into two broad categories; acquired or inherited. Inherited malocclusion can be expressed by crowded teeth, gaps between teeth or other problems of the jaw and face. Acquired malocclusion can be due to such things as thumb sucking, accidents, poor hygiene or early loss of baby or permanent teeth.While there are obvious cosmetic reasons for orthodontic treatment – including a tremendous growth of self-esteem and self-confidence, there are significant health related benefits as well. (Visit our Neuromuscular Dentistry section for more information) Crowded, crooked teeth are also much more difficult to keep clean and can lead to gum disease and the early loss of adult teeth.
Although most people think that orthodontic treatment is limited to children the fact is that both children and adults can benefit from orthodontics. In fact, more than 25% of all orthodontic treatment being performed today is on adults. However, we do suggest that once your child reaches the age of 7 they come in for an orthodontic screening. Some orthodontic problems may be easier to correct if treatment begins at an early age before all the permanent teeth have come in.
Advances in treatment have changed orthodontics considerably in recent years. Braces are much less noticeable than they were only a few years ago. For example, the brackets (the part that holds the wires) are now bonded directly to the teeth and can be metal, colored or even clear. Also, treatment times have shrunk to an average of 24 months (although the treatment time for your individual case will be dependent on the severity of the problem and other factors).
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