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What is Orthodontics?
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The specialty of orthodontics is a branch of dentistry dealing with dental and facial irregularities. Orthodontics requires skill in the design and application of corrective appliances, such as braces, which help to bring the teeth and jaws into proper alignment.
An orthodontist is a dentist who specializes in orthodontic treatment. Orthodontists must first complete four years of undergraduate university, then a four year dental graduate program, and then an additional two or three year residency program.
Commonly Treated Orthodontic Problems
Crossbite - The most common type of crossbite is when the upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth (towards the tongue). This can cause difficulties with biting and chewing.
Crowding - Teeth may be poorly aligned because they are too large or the jaw is too small. Crowding can result in impacted teeth (teeth that should have come in, but have not), poor biting relationships, and an undesirable appearance.
Deep Overbite - Often occurs when the lower front teeth (incisors) bite too close or into the gum tissue behind the upper teeth. This can cause bone damage, discomfort, and also contribute to excessive wear of the incisor teeth.
Open Bite - Upper and lower incisor teeth do not touch when biting down. This open space causes excessive biting pressure and rubbing together of the back teeth, making chewing less efficient and contributing to tooth wear.
Overjet - Upper front teeth that protrude beyond normal contact with the lower front teeth. An overjet will often indicate a poor bite of the back teeth (molars) or unevenness in jaw growth.
Spacing - Teeth that are missing or too small, or if the jaw is very wide, can cause spaces between the teeth.
Underbite - A lower jaw which is longer than the upper jaw can cause the lower front teeth to protrude ahead of the upper front teeth and potentially create a crossbite. Jaw growth and tooth development must be monitored in patients with an underbite.
Crooked and crowded teeth are hard to clean and maintain, contributing to conditions that can cause tooth decay and gum disease. Other orthodontic problems can contribute to abnormal wear of tooth surfaces, inefficient chewing function, or misalignment of the jaw joints, which can result in chronic headaches or pain in the face and neck.
How is Orthodontic Treatment Accomplished?
Based on the problem being treated, your orthodontist will design a custom-made appliance (such as braces). These appliances may be removable or fixed (bonded to your teeth). By exerting a controlled force these appliances can slowly move teeth to a new position.
More Information: Canadian Association of Orthodontists
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