-WHY ARE TEETH CROWDED?
Early decay and early loss of milk teeth cause permanent teeth not to line up properly. In addition, teeth become crooked in cases where tooth and jaw size ratios are incompatible, jaws cannot develop sufficiently, permanent teeth are missing or excessive, teeth are traumatized, and bad habits such as thumb sucking occur. Orthodontic problems may also be hereditary.
-WHAT IS THE MOST SUITABLE AGE FOR ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT?
When an orthodontic problem is first encountered or suspected, an orthodontist should be consulted. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that the first orthodontic evaluation be performed before the age of 7. Although the ideal treatment age for orthodontics varies from person to person, the most active treatment timing is between the ages of 8-14, when growth and development continue. Orthognathic surgical treatment is performed after the age of 18. However, treatments for proper alignment of teeth and elimination of crookedness can be applied at any age.
-HOW LONG DOES ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT DURATION?
There are many factors for the duration of orthodontic treatments. Treatment duration varies depending on the severity of the problem in the patient's jaw closure and tooth alignment. In addition to unchangeable factors such as the patient's age, the length of the tooth roots, and the hardness of the bone, the important factors that affect the duration are the patient's timely attendance at appointments, paying attention to nutrition and oral hygiene, and appropriate use of the provided appliance and elastics. The average treatment duration is 18-24 months.
-ARE DENTAL BRACES HARMFUL?
There is a misconception among the public that braces rot teeth and are harmful. Braces do not cause stains or decay as long as oral hygiene is maintained. However, since they increase food retention, more attention should be paid to brushing. Although brushing your teeth while wearing braces may take a little longer than normal, the necessary cleaning can be easily achieved. If necessary, the area around the brackets should be cleaned carefully using interface brushes and special brushes produced for orthodontic patients.
Read: 0