Orthodontics

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Orthodontics

 

Wondering what a complimentary Invisalign smile assessment and consultation is like at Reservoir Smiles?

Here’s a short 10 second walkthrough video 😊

 

A smile can say a lot – What does your smile say about you?

Misaligned and crowded teeth can often make people less confident in smiling and lower one’s self-esteem. Not only this, but crooked teeth can also lead to uneven wear of teeth, jaw alignment problems, gum disease and decay as it can often be more difficult to clean around overlapping teeth.

Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that specialises in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of crooked teeth either with plates, braces or invisalign.

Some orthodontic problems which are addressed:

  • Crowded teeth
  • Missing teeth
  • Extra teeth
  • Protruding teeth/jaws
  • Deep Bite
  • Overbite
  • Crossbites

People have orthodontics to not just improve the appearance of their teeth but also to improve the health and function of their teeth. Cleaning of teeth can be difficult where there is crowding and overlapping of teeth. Whilst it is possible to keep even the most crooked teeth clean, having well aligned teeth will make looking after them much easier thus reducing the risk of tooth decay, gum disease and even tooth loss. In some cases bad bites can lead to clenching and grinding which can result in uneven wear of teeth and even jaw joint problems. Some people may experience difficulty speaking because of the alignment problems with their teeth and jaws.

Orthodontic Options

There are alternatives to what type of braces can be placed onto your teeth.

The traditional metal brackets are still commonly used as they are the most effective in moving teeth.

Clear or white brackets are a great alternative that are less visible as they blend in with the teeth, for a fraction extra cost.

Clear Aligners – a virtually Invisible alternative to braces that is also removable for special occasions

Book a complimentary appointment with us today to see how we can do to improve the appearance of your smile

 

When to start orthodontic treatment?

Orthodontic problems are usually apparent by the age of seven, and while it is most common during teenage years, orthodontics can be done at any age. Some braces are done in children before all adult teeth are present to help correct early problems to allow teeth to grow into a more ideal alignment and possibly avoid more complex braces in the future. Braces are can also achieve excellent results in adults who are no longer growing. Your Dentist will tell you if you if orthodontics is suitable for you

 

How long does the treatment take?

Orthodontics can take between 12 – 48 months, but it depends on the severity of the mal-alignment of the teeth. Orthodontics in adults can sometimes take longer as adults may have more dense bones.

Before any treatment is started a thorough examination of the teeth, tooth measurements, skeletal measurements and analysis of the teeth and facial skeleton is made. Once this is done, a treatment plan is formed and a more accurate estimate of how long treatment will take and different treatment options to treat your smile.

At Reservoir Smiles, we have a state of the Art full mouth x-ray machine (Orthopantomogram and Lateral Cephalometric radiograph) which means all your essential radiographs can be taken on the spot without the need for you to go elsewhere.

At the completion of the active part of the treatment, the braces can be removed and retainers are fitted to hold the teeth in the new position. These retainers play an important role in orthodontic treatment, if they are not worn according to the instructions, the teeth may move back into their original position.