Orthodontics

What Is Orthodontics?

Orthodontics, one of the branches of dentistry, is the scientific discipline concerned with the treatment of structural irregularities of the lower and upper jaws in particular, as well as spaced teeth, bite problems related to the teeth, and dental crowding.

How is orthodontic treatment performed?

Orthodontic treatments are planned according to the diagnosis made after the clinical examination by the orthodontist and the measurements and analyses carried out on the X-rays and plaster models taken from the patient. Following the diagnosis, treatment is carried out according to the treatment plan with the help of various appliances, either fixed or removable. The type of appliance is determined by the requirements of the treatment.

Who performs orthodontic treatment?

Orthodontic treatments are performed by specialist doctors who, after 5 years of dental education, have completed at least 4 years of orthodontic specialty training and have obtained the title of "orthodontist".

What types of orthodontic treatment are there?

There are 4 types of orthodontic treatment methods in common use today. The wires to be used during the procedure may vary according to the patient's structural irregularity and expectations. Where the crowding is not very severe, treatment can be carried out with the help of clear aligners (transparent plates) without fitting wires, and this form of treatment is frequently used today.

• Metal braces (metal brackets): Metal brackets, which are durable and among the most widely used braces, can achieve improvement within 6 months to 2 years, depending on the degree of the irregularity.
• Clear braces (porcelain brackets): Because clear braces are made of a porcelain-based material, they have a much more aesthetic appearance. However, since they are not as durable as metal braces, they need to be used more carefully.
• Lingual braces (lingual brackets): Developed to eliminate the unsightly appearance of braces, lingual braces can be used in situations similar to those for metal or clear braces.

Can orthodontic treatment be applied at any age?

There is no age limit for orthodontic treatment, and it can be applied to anyone whose bones surrounding the teeth are healthy. If there is an irregularity in the jaw bones, the timing of treatment is decided after the patient has been examined and orthopaedic treatment has been carried out.

How long does orthodontic treatment take?

The duration of orthodontic treatment varies according to the individual's condition and the type of treatment to be carried out. At this stage, the orthodontist's primary goal is not to progress quickly but to achieve the best aesthetic and physiological result without damaging the tissues.

Treatment of irregularities involving only the teeth takes less time than treatment of irregularities that also involve jaw discrepancies. Depending on the severity of the problem, age and compliance with treatment, the treatment time varies between about 6 months and 3 years.

Is there pain or discomfort during treatment?

There is no pain whatsoever when the brackets are attached to your teeth. Sensitivity may occur for 1 to 2 days after the brackets are fitted. During your monthly visits, the archwires on your teeth are changed and force is applied again, so it is normal to feel brief, mild sensitivity during the procedure.

What should be paid attention to during treatment?

One of the most important factors for the success of treatment is good oral hygiene. The health of the teeth and gums directly affects the success and duration of treatment.

During treatment, hard foods such as apples and carrots should be cut into small pieces rather than bitten into. Eating nuts such as hazelnuts and walnuts, and fruits such as cherries, plums and olives without removing their pits, is not appropriate because of the possibility of damaging the brackets in the mouth.

During this period it is also recommended not to consume acidic foods and drinks, or to drink them through a straw.

What should be done for bracket care and oral cleanliness?

The most important point to watch during treatment is to brush your teeth immediately after eating, whatever you have eaten. After each brushing, you should carefully check in the mirror whether the area around the brackets has been cleaned sufficiently, because brackets have a design that is very suitable for the accumulation of food debris and bacterial plaque. For this reason, in addition to brushing, the spaces between the brackets and teeth should be cleaned thoroughly once a day in the evening with dental floss or interdental brushes. In addition, the teeth and gums must be checked every 6 months and, if necessary, treated.