Orthodontics - A Basic Guide

Posted by Crown House Dental on 3rd February 2016

Teeth straightening and "bite" issues.

It is all well and good hearing dental terminology banded around when you know what it means, but sometimes it can be daunting hearing it when you have no idea what it involves. Orthodontics is a term people often use but don't actually know the full meaning of it, which is why we thought we would do a brief guide so you, our valued Egham dentist customers, could feel more informed, especially if you think it is a service you may need.

So, to summarise what orthodontics is:

Anyone with an orthodontic problem has an issue with their bite ('malocclusion') or teeth which are in some way misaligned. So what we would call a 'malocclusion' would be deemed an orthodontic problem. A person might have a malocclusion because of too many teeth, teeth that are missing, big teeth, a crossbite, overbite, underbite - there are many different reasons for having an orthodontic problem. The treatment itself would be correcting that malocclusion in order to make the bite better, more comfortable and more aesthetically pleasing.

Why Would A Person Need Orthodontic Treatment?

A high percentage of the UK population is thought to have issues that would need orthodontic treatment. Although the issue can be predominantly aesthetic, often when the teeth do not meet properly, lots of problems can come from that occurring, including jaw ache, issues with the jaw joint, pain when eating and sometimes more extreme issues too.

Why Would A Person Have An Issue With Their Bite?

Malocclusions can be passed down through the genes, or they can occur because a person has had an accident, has had issues with their baby teeth coming through late or early, or being lost early or late; because of decaying teeth or because of dummy or thumb sucking over prolonged periods, particularly when a child is young and teeth are still developing.

What Sort Of Treatments Should A Person Expect When They Need Orthodontics?

Usually the treatments used to correct malocclusions and other issues with crooked teeth would involved braces which are either traditional, or the more modern cosmetic versions. Retainers may also be used. In some cases minor operations may be needed, or even cosmetic treatment to help complete the procedure. Some treatment may take years to complete as teeth are gently realigned, in some cases the treatment can be much quicker - each course of treatment is individual to the person's needs, wants and budget. Crown House Dental will always ensure that the treatment plan is transparent and completely fitted for the patient before any commitment to the plan is made.

What Happens When You Go For Orthodontic Treatment?

At your local Egham dentist, we will do a thorough assessment of your teeth, check for any issues with the bite and general tooth alignment, then discuss the different treatment options and how long the treatment would take, and of course the expected results.

Visit Crown House Dental, Egham

If you think you might need orthodontic treatment, please give us a call on 01784432641 and one of our friendly receptionists will provide you with further information, and help you book an appointment.

Blog Home
Book Appointment

Archives

Categories

Find....

Your Family Dentist in Egham, Surrey

homeenvelopephonemap-markerchevron-down linkedin facebook pinterest youtube rss twitter instagram facebook-blank rss-blank linkedin-blank pinterest youtube twitter instagram