Need Orthodontics in Riverdale? Here are Some of the Basics

Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry dedicated to diagnosing, preventing, and treating irregularities. Orthodontic treatment can reduce gum disease and tooth decay by making sure the mouth is cleaned effectively; furthermore, it reduces pressure put on individual teeth due to abnormal chewing habits.

Fixed braces are the most frequently utilized orthodontic devices, consisting of bands, brackets, and archwires. Modern versions tend to be lighter in weight while showing less metal than earlier models. However, there is a lot out there!

Braces

Braces are an orthodontic appliance used to correct misalignments in teeth and jaw alignments. With brackets, wires, and elastic bands acting together as components to gently apply pressure onto individual teeth in an effort to gradually shift them into their correct places.

Orthodontic braces are usually constructed of high-grade stainless steel for increased stability and longevity, bonded directly to each tooth with slots for arch wires to thread through, and then tightened at each appointment for constant, gradual pressure on teeth to move into desired positions gradually.

Ligatures are small rubber bands attached to brackets that connect and secure arch wires, providing stability during adjustments. At Riverdale orthodontics, there are many colors of these ligatures to suit different patient tastes and they should be changed at each appointment for optimal results. There are some brackets that do not require ligatures as they have built-in mechanisms for holding on to the arch wire – these brackets are known as self-ligating brackets.

If your teeth require additional force to move, an orthodontist may add elastics to your braces for additional pressure (source: https://aaoinfo.org/treatments/orthodontic-elastics/). These connected strings of elastic that stretch across multiple brackets deliver more force than just archwire alone can do – helping accelerate treatment time while simultaneously decreasing discomfort associated with teeth movement.

Orthodontists utilize the same process when it comes to applying elastics as they did when attaching brackets – they will choose a color and slip each band over each molar, attaching them using glue that was originally used with brackets, then check to make sure pressure adjustments as necessary during future appointments.

Retainers

Once orthodontic treatment is completed, retainers should be worn regularly in order to reduce the natural tendency for teeth to shift back to their pre-treatment positions. Retainers are made from clear plastic or acrylic and fit securely over or behind each of your teeth for added peace of mind! Retainers are an integral component of any effective orthodontic treatment plan and will help ensure that your new smile looks just as great 20 years from now as when your braces came off!

Your orthodontist will guide you in selecting a retainer that is suitable for you; typically, they recommend starting with removable retainers like Hawley or Essix retainers that can easily be taken out for cleaning or eating yet should still be worn as much as possible!

For those in search of a permanent retainer, bond retainers offer an effective solution. These retainers allow orthodontists to reposition your lower front teeth slightly so as to correct an overbite, underbite, or crookedness issue in your bite.

Your orthodontist will use an impression of your teeth to craft you a custom retainer, using dental putty similar to play dough to take an impression of both the upper and lower sets of your upper and lower teeth. From there they can create a retainer specifically tailored to you that provides more comfortable coverage for both jaws.

Removable retainers are extremely straightforward to take care of, yet it is essential that they be worn as often as possible in order to maintain their effectiveness. Be sure to clean them with warm water and soap before placing them into your mouth and store them safely when not being worn! Invest in a protective case for your retainer as this will protect it from being misplaced or damaged!

Headgear

Headgear may get a bad reputation in movies and television shows, but it can actually be highly effective in correcting bite issues. Headgear like this works by applying controlled external pressure to help bring the upper and lower jaws into better alignment, creating more space for teeth while relieving overcrowding, correcting an overbite or underbite, relieving strain on jaw muscles and joints, opening airways more freely, creating fuller faces and providing improved aesthetics.

When wearing headgear, it is crucial that you follow your orthodontist’s instructions on its usage and care in order to maximize its efficiency and benefit. Doing this will ensure the headgear provides maximum benefit to its wearer.

Experienced wearers of headgear may feel some degree of discomfort; this is perfectly normal. Your orthodontist should prescribe over-the-counter painkillers that you can take as needed, however, if this discomfort becomes unbearable, please call your orthodontist immediately for advice and treatment.

While wearing headgear, it is also essential that you avoid hard or sticky foods as these could damage both the appliance and teeth. Furthermore, any time engaging in physical activities that could potentially result in facial injuries should always be removed before playing sports or engaging in activities that pose this risk.