Malocclusions may have a genetic background, however, the most common causes relate to bad habits developed in childhood. The state-of-the-art orthodontic braces really do wonders! This can be corrected without any problems – not only for beauty, but first of all for health.
Everybody may have malocclusion corrected. There are no age limits. It usually takes longer in adults, because the bone is more calcified and it is much harder to form. Sometimes, the effects of the treatment are affected by the presence of crowns and bridges.
We usually decide to wear orthodontic braces for aesthetic reasons, but this decision should be made mainly for health purposes. Straight teeth and correct bite are less vulnerable to decay (they are easier to clean) and to periodontal diseases, and therefore we can enjoy them for longer.
If the teeth are incorrectly positioned, their surfaces undergo accelerated abrasion, thereby exacerbating bite problems. Sometimes, this may lead to degenerative diseases of temporomandibular joints. The function of teeth, which is crushing food, is impaired in the case of improper bite.
There are currently many types of orthodontic braces available, but generally they can be classified into two categories: removable and fixed.
The type of malocclusion, patient’s age and hygienic habits are the factors for the selection of orthodontic braces. The aim of orthodontic treatment is not only to preserve the health of teeth, periodontium, temporomandibular joints, but also to ensure well-being (oral comfort), to remove some of the defects of speech, to provide aesthetic appearance of smile, and even to follow the fashion.
A fixed orthodontic appliance is attached with a special adhesive to the teeth throughout the treatment. The patient cannot remove it on its own and must regularly have follow-up visits.
Fixed orthodontic braces: It is used to treat most of malocclusion cases. The brackets and bands are attached to the teeth with a special glue. All elements are connected by an arch, which provides an ideal shape by moving the teeth to correct positions.
Fixed porcelain braces:
- Brackets are milky white and they do not discolor during the treatment, if a proper diet is followed.
- The color is close to the natural color of the teeth.
Fixed crystal braces (sapphire):
- The brackets are as transparent as glass. Their appearance in the patient’s mouth is very aesthetic;
- The brackets are made of monocrystal. They do not reflect light, and therefore they are less visible on the teeth;
- Smooth edges increase patient’s comfort;
- They feature very high strength and precision similar to that of metal brackets.
