What Is Orthodontics?
Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that aims to correct malocclusions of the teeth. A malocclusion simply means that the teeth don’t fit together properly. Some orthodontics procedures are done to improve function, while others are done for cosmetic reasons to improve your appearance. Most people associate orthodontics with dental appliances like braces, plates and headgears, and in fact, these services are some of the most common. Orthopaedics is a subspecialty that aims to correct muscular, joint and bone misalignments.
Symptoms Of Misalignment
You might not notice malocclusions or misalignments by looking at your teeth in the mirror. However, if you have these problems, they usually cause symptoms that you can recognize. Here are some of the most common symptoms to watch out for:
- Migraines or persistent headaches
- Neck aches
- Facial pain
- Morning headaches
- Unexplained sounds in ears
- Crooked smile
- Increase in root canals in one side of the mouth
- Neck or low back pain or stiffness
- Head pain after orthodontics
Do I Need Orthodontic Devices?
Your Jane Clair Dental dentist can fit you with orthodontic devices if your situation calls for it. First, the dentist examines your teeth and jaw to determine if you have any malocclusions or misalignments. He or she might also take x-rays to get a different view of your teeth and jawbones. After diagnosing the problem, your dentist explains the problem and offers possible solutions to correct it.
How Braces Can Help
Braces slowly move your teeth into the correct position so they are evenly spaced and straight up and down. Your dentist can fit you or your child with braces and provide ongoing treatment until the braces have done the work they are intended to do. To fit the braces, the dentist attaches small square brackets onto your teeth. These brackets are then glued into place. Next, the dentist uses an archwire to connect the brackets and uses elastic pieces called modules to hold the brackets and archwire in place.
Other Orthodontic Appliances
Sometimes, your dentist will advise using headgear to help move your teeth gently into place. The headgear attaches to the braces to slow the growth of the jawbone in children. This prevents a malocclusion called an overjet or overbite. In some cases, the headgear can create more room for the teeth to come in properly. Dental plates are another orthodontics device used to promote lower jaw growth.