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An Introduction to Orthodontics: Why Do You Need the Treatment?

The treatment of orthodontics is becoming more and more popular as technology improves and people strive for that perfect smile.

In last month’s blog, Dental Care Ireland talked about the importance of regular visits to the dentist. Of course, many trips to your dentist will be for a scheduled check-up or to address an issue that’s causing discomfort. However, there is another factor which more and more people are considering when it comes to their dental health: orthodontics.

Orthodontics is defined as the treatment of irregularities in the teeth and jaws. In the past, orthodontic treatments were largely confined to children from the ages of 12 to 16 or 17, with brackets used to realign teeth and jaws.

The general rule of thumb then was that, seeing as younger people’s jaws and teeth are generally softer than those of adults, treatment would be confined to those in their teens and below, as it was easier to manipulate teeth and bone structure in younger people.

However, the technology of orthodontics has improved hugely over recent years. The introduction of self-ligating brackets made from ceramic or even titanium has resulted in more controlled, faster, less forceful orthodontic movement of teeth and much more discreet treatment, which has in turn increased the popularity of orthodontic intervention in adults.

The introduction of clear-tray aligner systems has also increased awareness and uptake of orthodontics, though treatment times can vary depending on the amount of tooth movement required. In terms of the identification of dental issues, improved imaging systems (like the CT cone) make the visualisation of teeth and jaws much clearer, leading to improved diagnosis and treatment planning.

As this technology has improved, so naturally has the prominence of orthodontic treatment. We have even seen a number of celebrities invest in orthodontics over the past number of years, including Faith Hill, Tom Cruise and even Faye Dunaway at 61 years old.

However, orthodontics isn’t merely about cosmetics and looking well; there is a functional aspect to getting treatment. Certain people may find that, even if they have crooked teeth that aren’t visible, these teeth can still pose an issue as food can regularly get stuck and stay stuck, thus increasing the chances of gum disease. Orthodontics can straighten teeth and, by extension, make it easier to brush and floss.

Also, crooked teeth can lead to issues other than tooth decay, such as jaw pain, problems with chewing or even speaking, and facial pain issues.

Orthodontic treatment is measured and priced on a case-by-case basis, and treatment duration also depends on what is needed; however, the general treatment timeframe is roughly 12-18 months.

So, how do you know if you actually need orthodontics? A scientific paper from the January 2017 edition of The American Journal of Orthodontics and Dermofacial Orthopedics suggested that the perceived need for orthodontics versus the actual need for orthodontics was about equal. Simply put, this means that if you feel that you need orthodontics, then you probably do.

A scientific paper from the same journal in June 2015 said that many factors influence reasons for orthodontic uptake in adults – particularly marital status and concerns for better, more predictable, long-term oral health outcomes. In this case, health and self-esteem are both important factors.

Orthodontics, just like the rest of dentistry, is constantly evolving. The new methods and materials which continue to come to market mean that your local Dental Care Ireland practice is better placed than ever before to assess and provide orthodontic treatment for you.

Your first step to a straighter smile is a visit to your local dentist. By accurately assessing your current bite, they will be best informed of your baseline bite and general oral health. Where simple rotations or movement are possible, your dentist will advise you on the best course of treatment for your specific needs.

As we have already seen, teeth that are straighter and less crowded are easier to clean. The treatment benefits from straight teeth can help secure good oral health into the future and, of course, give you that perfect smile you’ve always wanted.

Orthodontic services are currently available in the Knocklyon, Cabinteely and Callan practices of Dental Care Ireland. Remember, if an existing Dental Care Ireland patient refers a friend to a Dental Care Ireland practice, the referred patient receives a €20 discount off their first visit and the referring/existing patient gets a €20 credit applied to their account at Dental Care Ireland. See www.dentalcareireland.ie for more terms and conditions, prices, and contact details for our practices.