Commonly Used Orthodontic Appliances

Orthodontic is a specialized field in dentistry that focuses on correcting dental malocclusions and guiding the growth of the jaw in the early stages of life. Malocclusion causes improper alignment of teeth, making them crooked to the extent that the two dental arches cannot relate as they are supposed to. Orthodontists plays a vital role in dental health since by correcting alignment issues, the integrity of a tooth is reinstated to avoid premature loss of teeth or problems like TMJ pain and speech issues. Misaligned teeth also make it difficult to clean teeth which increases chances of tooth decay as a result of food particles accumulate in hard to reach areas of the teeth. At Kensington Dental Clinic, different types of orthodontic procedures are used to straighten teeth. both fixed and removable appliances are used. Your doctor will evaluate your conditions and then determine the best type of orthodontic appliance to be used as well the right course of treatment plan to follow.

Types of Orthodontic Appliances

Fixed Appliances

• Traditional Metal Braces

These have been in use for a long time. They include brackets and wires usually made from metal that area attached to teeth and gradually move them into the desired position. Traditional braces are one of the most affordable and effective type of orthodontic treatment in Edmonton. The only drawback to them is that they are noticeable and may make some people conscious about their appearance.

• Ceramic Braces

These are very similar to traditional braces only that instead of using metal, they are made using ceramic. Ceramic blends in with the natural color of teeth making them less noticeable. However, they are slightly more expensive compared to traditional braces and are prone to staining.

• Lingual Braces

When braces are used as orthodontics treatment in Edmonton, AB, they are usually attached to the front surface of teeth. but for lingual braces, they are hidden and placed behind the teeth. these braces are usually constructed from metal just like traditional braces but because of the technique used in placing them, they tend to be less effective and need a longer time to achieve the desired results.

• Self-Ligating Braces

They consist of fewer components compared to traditional braces. Self-ligating braces do not have ligatures, wires or bands. Instead they have an arch wire that is attached to the self-ligating bracket to allow for movement. They are fast to fix and comfortable to wear. Patients also find it easy to keep them clean. Their other advantage is that they facilitate quicker tooth movement which reduces the overall treatment time. Other types of fixed appliances used include fixed space retainers and special fixed appliances such as those that control thumb-sucking and tongue thrusting.

Removable Appliances

• Aligners

These are an alternative to conventional braces that are mostly used by adults that want to fix their teeth with discretion. They are invisible or clear and work the same way as fixed braces. The treatment uses a series of aligners to gradually shift teeth into the desired position. A good example of aligners is Invisalign.

• Removable Retainers

They are used to help teeth stay in their new position after finishing an orthodontic treatment. they can also be modified to control habits like thumb-sucking.

• Palatal Expander

This is an appliance designed to widen the arch of the upper jaw. It consists of a plastic plate that is fitted over the roof of the mouth and then when outward pressure is applied to the plate, the joints in the bones of palate open lengthwise, making the palatal area wider.

• Jaw Repositioning Appliances

They are also called splints and are worn on either the top or lower jaw. Their function is to train the jaw so that it closes in a more suitable position. It is mostly used for temporomandibular joint disorders.

• Headgear

This is a strap worn around the back of the head and is attached to a metal wire in front of the face. Its purpose is to slow the growth of the upper jaw and hold the back teeth in position as the front teeth are pulled back. Before seeking Orthodontics Treatment near you, you should be first evaluated by a reputable orthodontist. This will ensure that you have the right diagnosis and thereafter effective treatment for your condition.