What Does An Orthodontist Do?

Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry responsible for the treatment of malocclusion in children and adults. Properly performed orthodontic treatment guarantees not only a nice and aesthetic smile, but also prevents the development of speech defects, bite, caries, periodontal diseases and disorders in the temporomandibular joint.

The most common indications for orthodontic treatment are:

• crowding of teeth
• horizontal displacements of the maxilla relative to the mandible
• deep bite
• open bite
• defects of the temporo mandibular joint

Age And Orthodontics

Braces can be worn at any age – there are no age restrictions for orthodontic treatment! It is true that orthodontists are most often visited by children aged 8-12, who are referred by a pediatrician, dentist, ENT specialist or speech therapist, and then treatment of detected malocclusion can be started. However, nothing stands in the way of effective orthodontic treatment in an adult, regardless of age, because modern methods of orthodontic treatment make it possible.

How Is Orthodontic Treatment Going?

Orthodontic treatment begins with a consultation. An orthodontic treatment plan is developed based on the collected information, performed X-ray diagnostics and the patient’s expectations.

At a later stage, the patient is fitted with an orthodontic appliance. During treatment, the patient must regularly come to check-ups – usually every 4-8 weeks. After removing the fixed braces, the patient receives retention splints, which are to preserve the treatment effect.

Malocclusion

Malocclusion can be divided into:

• Overshot bite
• Deep bite
• Undershot
• Cross bite
• Open bite
• Crowding
• Teeth separated
• Depending on the diagnosis, appropriate orthodontic treatment is implemented.

Orthodontic Appliances

An orthodontic appliance is designed to heal a malocclusion, restore a physiological short circuit between the maxilla and the mandible, align and properly position the teeth in the dental arches.  Fixed orthodontic appliances are divided into: standard – metal, antiallergic – titanium, aesthetic, self ligating, lingual and transparent. Fixed appliances, unlike removable appliances, which are worn at night, are worn around the clock.

Modern orthodontics – the DAMON System

The Cichoń Implantology and Aesthetic Dentistry Center recommends DAMON ligature-free appliances that ensure effective and efficient orthodontic therapy. The ligature-free technique is a seven-mile step in the development of orthodontics and consists in closing the arch in the bracket’s slit with a special flap, instead of tying it with a ligature (elastic band). The arc moves freely, significantly eliminating friction, especially in the initial phase of treatment. For the patient, this means a shorter time of wearing the braces, fewer follow-up visits, minimal pain and most importantly: the arch is extended transversely, therefore, most often there is no need to remove premolars (four). Hygiene is also easier because there are no elastic ligatures that make it difficult to remove the accumulated sediment.DAMON system vs. traditional systems:

shorter treatment time and fewer follow-up visits

pain reduction to a minimum

faster improvement of the position of the teeth – the effects are visible after the first month

easier maintenance of proper hygiene – no ligatures

usually without tooth extraction

more effective treatments for both children and adults.