subject: The Changing Face Of Orthodontics [print this page] Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry dealing with the prevention or correction of irregularities of the teeth. i.e., Orthodontics is concerned with correcting misalignment of teeth.
Orthodontic procedures are usually done on children, but in recent years it has become popular for adults as well. Orthodontics treats people with bite and teeth positioning problems that cannot self-correct. The orthodontist may use either a removable or a fixed appliance. Fixed orthodontic appliances are attached to the teeth and can only be removed by the dentist.
Not many years ago, the term Orthodontics conjured up images of pieces of shining & reflecting metal. Todays Orthodontics are far more aesthetic as well as efficient than those Orthodontics few years ago. Today, Dental appliances are used on children at an earlier age to correct problems.
Over 4 million people in the USA wear Orthodontic appliances. About 1/5th of these people are adults. With the advancement in the field of Orthodontics, more & more adults are taking advantage of this form of dental care to improve their looks and correct dental problems.
Orthodontics help people not only with achieving a beautiful smile but with dental health as well. For example, overcrowded teeth can cause problems with brushing and flossing creating a breeding ground for bacteria and plaque. Braces can also correct bite problems that could hamper eating. Bite problems, if not corrected, can also make chewing difficult and cause pain.
Braces, retainers, and other orthodontic appliances are classified as medical devices and are regulated by the Government. Any new orthodontic device must be approved by the government it is used in general orthodontic procedure. This includes the plastics, wires, bonding agents colours and dyes used.
Invisalign, as an alternative to Braces was cleared by the Government recently, to straighten teeth in teens and adults. The purpose of Invisalign is the same as that of Braces in that it seeks to move teeth into their proper position. Invisalign uses a series of clear removable aligners instead of wires and brackets. An orthodontist takes impressions of the teeth and sends these models to the maker of Invisalign.
Today, since most people do not have straight teeth, it is a big relief that orthodontics has improved greatly making orthodontic care a viable, aesthetic and effective solution for achieving a healthy smile. Orthodontics cannot only improve one's smile, but also improve the function of the teeth so they can last a lifetime.
