What is Considered Orthodontic Treatment?

Orthodontic treatment is a specialised branch of dental procedures focused on correcting irregularities of the teeth and jaws. This includes the alignment of crooked teeth, correction of bite issues, and the overall improvement of oral function and aesthetics.

Understanding Orthodontic Issues

Orthodontic problems can range from minor misaligned teeth to severe malocclusions (improper bites). Common issues include:

Crowded Teeth: This occurs when there is not enough space in the jaw for all the teeth to fit normally.

Spaced Teeth: Gaps or spaces between teeth can result from missing teeth or a discrepancy in tooth size.

Overbite: This is when the upper front teeth overlap excessively over the lower front teeth.

Underbite: The lower teeth extend beyond the upper teeth.

Crossbite: Some upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth rather than outside.

Open Bite: When biting down, there is an open space between the upper and lower front teeth.

These teeth alignment issues can result from genetic factors, early loss of primary teeth, thumb-sucking, or injuries.

The Diagnostic Process

Your orthodontist will start with a comprehensive consultation to assess your unique needs. This includes a visual examination of your teeth and jaw alignment, digital or traditional x-rays to evaluate bone health and tooth positioning, as well as dental impressions or 3D scans to create precise models of your bite.

Your orthodontist uses this diagnostic data to develop a customised treatment plan, estimating duration and explaining available options so you can make an informed decision. This initial consultation typically takes 45 to 60 minutes and provides the foundation for your entire orthodontic journey.

Types of Orthodontic Treatments

Orthodontic treatments are designed to address these issues effectively and can be broadly categorised into fixed and removable appliances.

Braces

Traditional Metal Braces: These are the most common type, consisting of metal brackets bonded to the teeth and connected by wires. They gradually move teeth into the desired position through periodic adjustments.
Ceramic Braces: Similar to traditional braces. However, the brackets are made of ceramic materials that blend with the natural colour of teeth.
Lingual Braces: These braces are placed on the inside (lingual side) of the teeth, making them less visible from the outside.

Aligners

Clear Aligners (e.g., Invisalign): These are a series of custom-made, clear plastic trays that fit over the teeth. Each set of aligners is worn for one to two weeks before switching to the next set, gradually moving the teeth to their desired positions.

Retainers

Fixed Retainers: These are bonded to the back of the teeth to hold them in place after the active phase of orthodontic treatment.
Removable Retainers: These can be taken out for eating and cleaning and are usually worn at night to maintain the position of the teeth.

Other Appliances

Palatal Expanders: These are used to widen the upper jaw so that the upper and lower teeth will fit together better.
Headgear: Typically used to correct bite and support the proper growth of the jaw, this appliance attaches to the braces and is worn partially outside the mouth.
Space Maintainers: Used in children when they lose a baby tooth prematurely, to hold the space until the permanent tooth comes in.

The Process of Orthodontic Treatment

Orthodontic treatment typically involves several stages:

Initial Consultation: The orthodontist evaluates the patient’s dental and medical history, performs a clinical examination, and takes X-rays and photographs to develop a comprehensive treatment plan.

Diagnosis and Planning: A customised treatment plan is created based on the data collected. This plan details the appliances to be used, the duration of treatment, and the expected outcomes.

Implementation: The chosen orthodontic appliances are applied to straighten teeth. For braces, this involves bonding brackets to the teeth and inserting archwires. The patient receives a series of aligners to be worn in sequence for clear aligners.

Adjustment Visits: Regular appointments are scheduled for adjustments and monitoring progress. This can involve tightening wires, changing bands, or receiving new sets of aligners.

Retention: Once the teeth are correctly aligned, the orthodontic appliances are removed, and retainers are provided to maintain the new positions of the teeth.

How Long Does Treatment Take?

Treatment duration varies significantly based on problem complexity and severity. Minor crowding or spacing typically resolves in 12 to 18 months. Moderate cases involving mixed crowding and bite issues average 18 to 24 months.

Severe crowding, skeletal bite problems, or jaw misalignment may require 24 to 36 months or longer. Age matters considerably in treatment planning.

Children often benefit from shorter phase-one treatment lasting 12 to 18 months to guide jaw growth, followed by phase-two fixed appliances. Adults, whose jaws are fully grown, may need longer active treatment but can skip growth-modification phases entirely.

Your orthodontist provides a specific estimate after diagnostics, accounting for your unique anatomy and goals.

Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment

Orthodontic treatment offers numerous benefits beyond just a beautiful smile:

Improved Oral Health: Properly aligned teeth are easier to clean, reducing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

Better Functionality: Correcting bite issues can improve chewing, speaking, and overall jaw function.

Enhanced Aesthetics: A well-aligned smile boosts self-esteem and confidence.

Prevention of Future Issues: Early orthodontic treatment can prevent more severe problems later in life, such as abnormal wear of tooth surfaces or jaw pain.

After Treatment: Retention and Maintenance

Why Retainers Are Essential

After braces are removed, retention is equally important as active treatment for maintaining your results. Your orthodontist will prescribe a retainer schedule tailored to your specific case and biological tendencies.

Teeth naturally shift throughout life due to ageing, wisdom teeth eruption, and normal jaw changes. Without proper retention, you risk losing the investment you’ve made in achieving straight teeth and proper alignment.

Types of Retainers and Wear Schedules

Retention typically involves full-time wear for 3 to 6 months immediately following appliance removal, then nightly wear indefinitely thereafter. Modern options include fixed bonded retainers, which are thin wires glued to the back of teeth, and removable retainers such as clear aligners or Hawley retainers with wire and acrylic construction.

Many orthodontists recommend combining both types for maximum stability and long-term success. Fixed retainers provide continuous protection for front teeth, whilst removable retainers maintain overall arch form.

Lifelong nightly retainer use prevents relapse and maintains your investment in straightness and alignment for decades to come.

Contact The Orthodontic Place

Orthodontic treatment is a comprehensive process aimed at correcting dental and jaw irregularities to improve both function and aesthetics. From traditional braces to modern clear aligners, there are various options available to suit different needs and preferences.

Want to get straight teeth? Contact The Orthodontic Place today to get started with a consultation and determine your best orthodontic treatment options.