Fact 6: Treatment Options
Braces have stood the test of time as one of the most effective treatments for malocclusion. These orthodontic stalwarts involve the use of brackets fixed onto the teeth, interconnected by wires. Over time, these wires are tightened, guiding the teeth into their ideal positions. Initially, many might associate braces with metallic, easily visible fixtures, but technological advancements have brought forth options such as ceramic braces, which blend seamlessly with the natural tooth color, and lingual braces that are affixed to the backside of teeth, making them virtually invisible to the casual observer. The duration for which braces need to be worn varies, depending on the severity of malocclusion, but regular visits to the orthodontist are essential for adjustments and progress monitoring.
Clear aligners are the epitome of orthodontic innovation, providing an alternative to the traditional brace system. Made of transparent, medical-grade plastic, these aligners are custom-made to fit snugly over the patient’s teeth. They work on the principle of exerting controlled pressure on specific teeth, pushing them gradually into their desired positions. What makes aligners particularly popular, especially among adults, is their near-invisibility, ensuring that one can undergo treatment without it being glaringly obvious. Additionally, being removable, they offer the advantage of easier oral hygiene maintenance and no dietary restrictions. Typically, a patient transitions to a new set of aligners every couple of weeks as the teeth move closer to their ideal alignment.
Some cases of malocclusion arise from a mismatch in the size of the upper jaw relative to the lower jaw, leading to overcrowding of the teeth. This is where palatal expanders come into play. These devices are fixed onto the upper arch, spanning across the palate, with the primary objective of widening the upper jaw. By turning a screw in the center of the expander at specified intervals, gradual outward pressure is exerted on the two halves of the upper jaw, encouraging bone growth in the intervening palatal region. This not only creates space for teeth to align better but also ensures a more harmonious fit between the upper and lower jaws.
Orthognathic surgery is reserved for severe cases of malocclusion, where the issue isn’t just misaligned teeth but misaligned jaws. This surgical intervention involves repositioning the jaws to ensure a better fit and alignment. The complexity of the surgery can vary, ranging from minor bone shaving to major realignments. Often, orthognathic surgery is complemented by orthodontic treatment to fine-tune the alignment of teeth post-surgery. Recovery times vary, but post-operative care, including dietary modifications and physical therapy, ensures a smoother healing process and optimized outcomes.
Once the primary orthodontic treatment concludes, it’s essential to ensure that the teeth don’t drift back to their original positions. Enter retainers. These devices, either fixed or removable, are designed to “retain” the newly achieved alignment. Fixed retainers involve a wire bonded to the back of the teeth, while removable variants can be similar to clear aligners or traditional wire-and-acrylic models. Regardless of the type, the role of the retainer is pivotal. It ensures the stabilization of teeth in their new positions, allowing the surrounding bone and tissues to adapt and secure them in place, safeguarding the investment of time, effort, and resources made during the orthodontic treatment. (6)
