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).