Orthodontics
Orthodontic treatment ismost commonly used to improve the appearance and function of misaligned or crooked teeth.
Teeth that are straighter and better alignedshouldbe easier to clean, andmay reduce strain on the muscles and joints of the jaw.
The improved appearance of your teeth or jawmight also help boost your self-esteem and self-confidence.
Some of the most common teeth problems requiring orthodontic treatment include:
Orthodontics can also be used to treat other health problems. For example, orthodonticsis part ofthe treatment for Cleft lip and palate .
It may also help in casesof mild sleep apnoea . An orthodontist can make a dental appliance similar to a gum shield,which can help prevent the airway closing while you sleep.
Orthodontic treatment will usually only be started after all of a child's adult teeth have started to come through.
For most children, this will be when they're about 12 or 13 years old. For adults, orthodontic treatmentcan begin at any age, but what can be done is more limited.
Orthodontists will not usually begin a course of orthodontic treatment unlessyou have agood standard of oral hygiene. This is because orthodontic treatment can increase the risk of tooth decay .
Orthodontics is a type of dentistry that aims to improve the appearance, position and function of crooked or abnormally arranged teeth.
Orthodontic treatment is most commonly used to improve the appearance and function of misaligned or crooked teeth.
Orthodontic treatment is sometimes available for free on the NHS, although you can also pay for private treatment.
There are many different types of orthodontic treatment, depending on the exact problem with your teeth or jaw.