What is orthodontics?
Orthodontics is an area of dentistry that prevents, diagnoses and treats dental irregularities. Orthodontic treatment is the treatment of those irregularities and typically involves straightening the teeth to improve their appearance and function.
So why have straight teeth?
Aside from aesthetics, straighter teeth have an even bite. This in turn promotes long-term health of the teeth, gums and jaw joints. But it’s not just straightening teeth…
Orthodontic treatment can also fix a variety of other problems including:
- Overbites, underbites and cross bites
- Teeth that are overcrowded and,
- Unwanted or unnatural spaces between teeth
Straighten your smile
Consisting of metal brackets and wires, they are permanently fixed to the teeth for the duration of your treatment. The wires apply constant but gentle pressure to move the teeth into their desired position.
We work with Invisalign as the market leading provider of clear aligner technology. These are worn in sequence over the teeth like an invisible mouthguard. Each aligner moves the teeth a tiny amount until by the time the last aligner has been worn, your smile will be straight and even.
Following orthodontic treatment with braces or aligners, a retainer will need to be worn. The bone and soft tissues need time to adapt when the position of the teeth has altered. A retainer helps stabilise the teeth and prevents them from moving back to their former positions. Our dentist will be happy to discuss removable and fixed retainers and recommend the best option for you.