Orthodontics

Straight, healthy teeth are a sign of vitality and youth, which is why more and more adults can be seen wearing a brace.

As we get older our teeth change. Senile involution of the periodontic apparatus leads to tooth migration und unstable dentition. The task of the orthodontic specialist, therefore, is to take orthodontic measures to prevent any loss of teeth and to improve the appearance of existing teeth. Form follows function is an adage that applies as much to our teeth as it does to other things.

If a dentist cannot fill gaps because the tooth abutments have tilted into the intervening space, an orthodontist must first remedy the tilting effect. This not only has aesthetic benefits, but also provides better support for the tooth abutments and prevents the formation of dental pockets. Sometimes it is also necessary to open up gaps to insert crowns, bridges or implants in bringing about a satisfactory solution. Occasionally, orthodontic regulation may even reduce the treatment that has to be carried out by the dentist.
 
Orthodontic treatment can take place at any time; as long as a tooth is in the mouth it can be moved. The straightening of teeth changes the overall facial appearance and the outcome is a broad smile. For the Chinese it’s an open secret that a nice smile can win you friends.

Before commencing any orthodontic treatment the orthodontist examines the temperomandibular joint and the adjacent structures. Imperfect positioning of teeth can lead to facial neuralgia and headaches, particularly in the case of a forced bite. Sometimes the entire skeletal system is affected.

Teeth can be straightened in many different ways. Nowadays, the brackets of the fixed brace are no longer affixed just to the visible tooth surfaces but also to the inner side of the teeth (see www.incognito.net ). Teeth straightening takes place “behind the scenes”, as it were. Minor teeth malpositions, such as crowding in the anterior part of the upper or lower jaw, can be treated with the help of aligners ( www.invisalign.com).