Orthodontics

Q: What are the different types of orthodontic treatments?

Fixed Braces: a brace you cannot remove which is made up of brackets that are glued to the front of each tooth and linked with wires. Removable Braces: usually plastic plates that cover the roof of the mouth and clip on to some teeth; these can only be used to achieve very limited tooth movements. Functional Appliances: usually a pair of removable plastic braces that are joined together or designed to interact together and fit on to both the upper and lower teeth.

Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that corrects misaligned teeth and jaws. Even though this is considered in most cases as a cosmetic treatment , the functional aspect is the main reason for the orthodontic treatment.

At German Dental & Neuromuscular Clinic in Dubai, we provide advanced Orthodontic treatment for both children and adults. Our German Orthodontists are specialized in Functional Orthodontics, which not only treats the bite alignment and straightens the teeth but goes further to maintain the oral as well as the general physical health by treating chewing function disorders, headaches and migraines, airway obstructions and Sleep Apnea.

Orthodontic treatment is for everyone! It’s not just for children and adolescents; it’s for adults as well.

Orthodontics for Children

More than half of all dental and jaw problems occur after birth.

Causes for this are, for example, pacifier or thumb sucking, involvement of the upper respiratory tract, as well as early loss of baby teeth. Of course, genetic factors also play a role. Some scientists state that 40% of the growth is genetically determined and 60% is functionally mediated.

Ideally, children should have an orthodontic evaluation no later than the age of 7. Waiting for the full teeth change, with the aim of shortening the orthodontic treatment duration, can result in clear disadvantages. Around the age of 10 years, 90% of the growth of the upper jaw is already completed and the jaw joints have already formed a large part of their shape and function. With jaw position problems, a jaw asymmetry may already develop. Research in the US showed that a large part of the cross bites in the early dental stage also influence the development of deviations of the nasal septum.

Orthodontics for Adolescents

Early orthodontic interventions can in some cases avoid the removal of teeth at a later stage, or facilitate a later correction. The early diagnosis of functional problems is also necessary in the coordination of further harmonious jaw growth and teeth breakthrough.

Sometimes, however, the complete breakthrough of all teeth is a prerequisite for achieving a definitive and optimal result. Since in an early orthodontic treatment more removable equipment is used, with permanent teeth a fixed device or ‘brackets’ is the most commonly used equipment.

Advantages of Early Treatment

Orthodontics For Adults

While the pre-teen and teen years are the most ideal time to correct teeth alignment, braces for adults can still be very effective.

Most adults in their 70s and 80s can also benefit from Orthodontic treatment, as long as their teeth and gums are in good condition and can withstand the pressure of the braces on their teeth. Age is just a number, and there is no cut off time for when you can get braces, especially in these days, where people are living healthier lives and are keeping their natural teeth longer.

If you have strong healthy teeth that are just crooked, regardless your age, braces can help you achieve that straighter smile.

However, if you have dental issues such as tooth decay or Periodontal Disease then these need to be corrected before the Orthodontic treatment can begin.

Some treatments at the dentist such as crowns, bridges, implants can only be performed after preparatory orthodontics.

Because all bones stop growing by the time we are adults, there might be some structural changes that braces alone cannot achieve. In these cases, other procedures and/or surgical treatments might be required.

Types of Orthodontics Procedures

Ceramic Braces

Metal Braces

Lingual Braces

Clear Aligners

Retainers

Functional Orthodontics

Ceramic Braces

Metal Braces

Lingual Braces

Clear Aligners

Retainers

Functional Orthodontics

Ceramic Braces

Metal Braces

Lingual Braces

Clear Aligners

Retainers

Functional Orthodontics

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What does orthodontic treatment include?

It includes straightening crooked teeth, correcting an improper bite, closing wide gaps between the teeth and boosting the long-term health of gums and teeth.

How do I know if I need braces?

If your teeth are crooked or misaligned, consult our dentist and discuss your treatment options. The orthodontists will help determine if you need braces for any of these problems:

Abnormally aligned teeth
Speech difficulties
Discomfort when chewing

Are braces painful?

Braces don’t hurt when they are applied to the teeth, so there is no need to be anxious about the placement appointment. There will be mild soreness or discomfort after the orthodontic wire is engaged into the newly placed brackets, which may last for a few days to a week.

How long do I have to wear braces?

Generally, the average time, you have to wear braces for is 18 to 24 months. However, treatment time varies based on factors such as age, severity of the condition, type of treatment and the goal. For instance, the duration for children may be shorter as their jaws are more flexible making the process easier. Similarly, the condition of the teeth also determines the treatment duration.

What are the different types of orthodontic treatments?

Fixed Braces: a brace you cannot remove which is made up of brackets that are glued to the front of each tooth and linked with wires.
Removable Braces: usually plastic plates that cover the roof of the mouth and clip on to some teeth; these can only be used to achieve very limited tooth movements.
Functional Appliances: usually a pair of removable plastic braces that are joined together or designed to interact together and fit on to both the upper and lower teeth.

Can braces cause health problems?

No, if oral health is maintained properly, no health issue is seen.

The placement of the brackets leads to more plaque formation in the area and along the arch wires. It also hinders in mechanical cleaning while brushing. So proper brushing technique with regular use of interdental brushes to clean the area between the teeth and the arch wire is mandatory.

Use of mouth-rinse significantly reduces the bacterial load in the mouth thus favoring the reduction in plaque formation aiding in good oral health.

Is it hard to eat with braces?

Generally, you should avoid hard and sticky foods as they may get entangled within the braces and result in their dislodgment. Here are some foods that are not suitable for eating while you’re wearing braces (nuts, corn, sticky sweets or caramel, raw carrots…etc.).