Orthodontics
Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry in charge of the study, prevention, diagnosis and treatment of abnormalities in the shape, position, alignment, and function of the dentofacial structures. At our clinic, we are proud to collaborate with Mabeli González Díaz, a specialist in this field.
Through orthodontic treatment, we don't only achieve the proper tooth alignment and a beautiful smile, we also ensure a balanced relationship between upper and lower teeth, improving chewing efficiency and their overall function. With better function, they suffer less wear and tear and it becomes easier to keep them healthy!
Traditionally, orthodontics has been a speciality that focuses on children and adolescents, but they are not the only ones who can benefit from it. Due to modern technological advancements, people of any age can now achieve a ten out of ten smile.
- Orthodontics in Children
The little ones at home should have orthodontics check-ups to detect and solve any early bite problems.
From around the age of 6,orthodontic treatments can be performed with the goal of improving the growth and relation of the bone that supports the teeth. This way we can create a better environment for the eruption of the permanent denture.
- Orthodontics in Adolescence
Adolescence is the ideal stage for Orthodontic treatment, as permanent teeth are present and we can still take advantage of the patient's growth to achieve the ideal result. This is why, at this age, we can combine Orthopedic treatment, which acts on bone structures taking advantage of natural growth, with Orthodontic treatment, which focuses on tooth movement.
- Experience with Adults. Can it be done if I have suffered from Periodontitis?
We have years of experience treating adult patients, including those who have previously suffered from Periodontitis. This is possible by creating a program where Orthodontics and Periodontics are combined.
The correction of both tooth misalignment and malocclusion was a treatment originally performed mainly in children and young adults, but clinical studies and research have proven that Orthodontic treatment is also effective in adults.
Furthermore, it is even possible to carry out Orthodontic treatment in adults who have lost part of the supporting structures of their structures of their teeth due to periodontal disease.
The key requirement for this kind of treatment is to achieve and maintain healthy gums alongside strict monitoring throughout the orthodontic process. At our clinic, we have extensive experience in performing orthodontic corrections for tooth misalignment caused by periodontal disease.
In case of carrying out an Orthodontic treatment with us, we carefully plan it coordinating orthodontic appointments with periodontal check-ups to ensure the success of the treatment.
Nowadays there are no age limitations for aligning your teeth and achieving a movie-star smile. Orthodontic treatment also contributes to maintaining and enjoying healthier teeth for longer.
These days no one has to know you are wearing braces! The latest advances in Orthodontics have led to highly aesthetic options that only the people you want to know will know you are undergoing an Orthodontic treatment.
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Before:
- I have been advised to get Orthodontic treatment. What happens if I don't get it?
It all depends on your current situation and the goals of your specific case, but you must remember that:
- When the teeth are crooked or misaligned, it becomes more difficult to clean them properly, which can lead to several problems such as tooth decay and gum diseases that could result in tooth loss.
- If the issue is that your biting point isn't adequate, your teeth receive pressure in the wrong areas. This can cause wear and tear of the tooth surfaces and lead to gum and supporting bone problems. Sometimes the jaw tries to adjust itself for a more comfortable bite, which can lead to strain on the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ), resulting in pain.
- How long is an Orthodontic Treatment?
The duration of the treatment varies greatly from patient to patient, depending on individual needs and the patient's cooperation throughout the process. In general, it can last between one and three years, although in some cases it may take less than a year.
- Is there an age limit?
Age isn't a contraindication for orthodontic treatment.
- For younger patients, it is sometimes necessary to wait in order to achieve better results in less time.
- For adults, the most important thing to have is to have healthy gums and bones that allow tooth movement.
- For patients with Periodontitis, it is very important for them to attend the check-up appointments with the periodontist. The benefits of the orthodontic treatment will also contribute to improving the patient's periodontal health.
- Which type of treatment is better for me?
There are many types of systems capable of moving teeth. The most common are braces, and nowadays, there are different types of versions that offer different advantages:
- Metal Braces: The most common. They can be combined with rubber bands of the same color as the braces, or in different colors to give it a more fun look.
- Porcelain Braces: They are white and more aesthetic.
- Sapphire Braces: Being transparent, they blend in with the natural tooth color and are even more aesthetic than porcelain braces.
- Self-ligating Braces (Damon or Smartclip): Available in metal porcelain, characterised for achieving faster tooth movement, and therefore, shorter treatment times.
- Lingual braces: They are placed on the inner surface of the tooth. From the outside, the teeth look the same, making this an extremely aesthetic technique.
- Invisalign: Instead of braces, transparent aligners are used and changed every 15 days. Apart from being very aesthetic, they are removable, which gives the patient greater comfort when eating and brushing their teeth.
- Can it be done if I have suffered from Periodontitis?
We have years of experience treating adult patients, including those who have previously suffered from Periodontitis. This is possible by creating a program where Orthodontics and Periodontics are combined.
The correction of both tooth misalignment and malocclusion was a treatment originally performed mainly in children and young adults, but clinical studies and research have proven that orthodontic treatment is also effective in adults.
Furthermore, it is even possible to carry out orthodontic treatment in adults who have lost part of the supporting structures of their structures of their teeth due to periodontal disease.
The key requirement for this kind of treatment is to achieve and maintain healthy gums alongside strict monitoring throughout the orthodontic process. At our clinic, we have extensive experience in performing orthodontic corrections for tooth misalignment caused by periodontal disease.
Nowadays there are no age limitations for aligning your teeth and achieving a movie-star smile. Orthodontic treatment also contributes to maintaining and enjoying healthier teeth for longer.
- During:
- How can I clean my braces?
Orthodontic devices require more careful and precise tooth brushing. At the clinic we will teach you how to clean braces and which tools can help you achieve proper oral hygiene. If this isn't maintained correctly, the treatment may take longer to complete.
- What special care should I take with braces?
Although braces are stuck to the tooth using a special cement, they can fall off if not taken care of properly. For this reason, we recommend avoiding any hard or sticky foods, as well as other habits such as chewing on pens.
If the braces come off frequently, the treatment may be prolonged. It is also very important to maintain correct oral hygiene with thorough brushing. At the clinic we will teach you how to clean braces and which tools can help you achieve proper oral hygiene. If this isn't maintained correctly, the treatment may take longer to complete.
- What discomfort can braces cause? Do they hurt?
The level of discomfort varies from one person to another. Most patients experience very little, while others may notice some of the following:
- Some patients find it difficult to pronounce certain letters during the first few days. The tongue has great ability to adapt, so this discomfort usually disappears within about a week.
- The attachments on the orthodontic devices can cause small sores, especially at the beginning. Orthodontic wax is very helpful in these cases, as it is applied over the area that causes the irritation, directly eliminating the source of the problem.
- Sometimes tooth movement can cause discomfort and sensitivity, especially when pressure is applied. The use of pain relievers such as paracetamol helps relieve this type of discomfort.
- What do I do if a brace falls off?
Ideally, you should visit your orthodontist as soon as possible. If it bothers you because the brace moves or turns, you can remove it with a pair of tweezers and keep it so that your orthodontist can reattach it.
- After:
- Once the treatment has finished, is the position of the teeth permanent?
Teeth move back to their original position naturally, especially during the first days after removing the orthodontic device. This can be avoided by using stabilising apparatus, also known as retainers.
Retainers are used until the bones and gums adapt to the new position of the teeth.
In the case of children, it is recommended to keep them at least until they finish growing.
The use of retainers is the best way of assuring that the results will last a lifetime.
- Once the treatment is finished, do I have to go back to the orthodontist?
The orthodontist must check and make sure that there aren't any changes in the desired result. Although the visits won't be as frequent as they were during the treatment, it is recommended to visit your orthodontist once a year so they can check the retainers are functioning properly.