Orthodontics

What is Orthodontics?
Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that aims to prevent and correct dental irregularities in children and adults, providing patients with aesthetics, proper speech, and functional improvement. Dental crowding may be genetic or environmental (thumb sucking, nail biting, early loss of milk teeth, etc.). Untreated crowding can lead to psychological problems, gum disease, speech difficulties, and joint disorders.

Who can receive orthodontic treatment?
Orthodontic treatment can be applied at any age. In children, treatment is easier and shorter due to growth potential. Dental treatments can be performed at almost any age if teeth and surrounding tissues are healthy. Skeletal problems in adults may require surgery.

Signs to watch in children:

• Early or late loss of milk teeth
• Difficulty chewing or closing the mouth
• Mouth breathing
• Thumb sucking
• Crowded or misaligned teeth
• Forward or backward positioned jaws
• Cheek or lip biting
• Protruding teeth
• Improper bite or open bite
• Unbalanced facial appearance
• Teeth grinding

When is orthodontic treatment needed?

• Crossbite (lower teeth ahead of upper teeth)
• Protruding front teeth preventing lip closure
• Crowded or overlapping teeth
• Excess spacing between teeth
• Open bite cases
• Chewing or speech difficulties
• Persistent thumb sucking after age 4
• Early loss of milk teeth

First orthodontic examination:
Should be done after eruption of incisors. The Turkish Orthodontic Society recommends evaluation before age 7.

Treatment duration and retention:
Treatment lasts 6 months to 3 years. Retention therapy prevents relapse.

Treatment methods:

• Removable appliances
• Functional appliances
• Fixed appliances (metal or ceramic brackets)
• Orthognathic surgery

Benefits:

• Proper alignment of teeth and jaws
• Improved speech
• Enhanced facial aesthetics and confidence
• Better chewing and digestion
• Easier oral hygiene
• Prevention of gum disease

Precautions during treatment:

• Sensitivity and minor injuries may occur, use orthodontic wax.
• Brush teeth regularly, avoid plaque around brackets.
• Avoid hard foods.
• Attend check-ups every 4–5 weeks.
• Use appliances as instructed.

Oral hygiene:

• Use orthodontic toothbrushes.
• Clean brackets with interdental brushes.
• Brush after meals.
• Use dental floss daily.
• Prefer fluoride products