Discover the orthodontic services available at Orthodontics in Los Gatos, designed to enhance both aesthetics and functional aspects such as chewing and speech. Orthodontics, a specialized field within dentistry, focuses on rectifying teeth alignment issues. These treatments progress through multiple stages or phases, each contributing to the eventual attainment of desired outcomes over a while.
Explore further to understand the objectives of orthodontic intervention and the various phases it entails.
Understanding the goals of orthodontic treatments
Orthodontic issues are prevalent and multifaceted, with potential repercussions if not addressed promptly, particularly in children. Left unchecked, they can disrupt the eruption and alignment of permanent teeth, resulting in various complications such as overbite, deep bite, underbite, crossbite, and open bite later on.
Discovering the phases of orthodontic treatment
Orthodontic treatment typically involves three main phases. These include:
- Phase 1: Planning
- This first phase involves initial consultation and evaluation of your oral cavity and specific oral needs.
- The goal of this phase is to identify the orthodontic problem and to determine the exact diagnosis since it paves the way for an appropriate treatment plan.
- This phase includes the following evaluation:
- Assessment of dental and medical history
- Recording oral impressions
- Capturing panoramic X-rays of the jaws and teeth
- Recording computer-generated images of the head, neck, and face
- Phase 2: Active treatment
- This phase involves the actual treatment when your orthodontist designs an appropriate treatment plan to align your teeth and correct orthodontic flaws.
- Your orthodontist may recommend any one of the following devices based on your individual needs:
- Fixed braces
- Removable clear aligners
- Headgears
- Palatal expanders
- These devices involve the following functions:
- Alignment and leveling
- Bite correction
- Space correction
- Once the treatment is completed and the desired results are achieved your orthodontist removes the appliances or discontinues their use accordingly.
- Phase 3: Retention
- When your appliances are removed, your orthodontists will create specific retainers for you.
- The retainers ensure that the teeth do not regress or retract back to their original position.
- You are advised to wear retainers for a specific duration of time each day to allow the bone to reform and stabilize the teeth in their new, correct alignment.
Takeaway
Orthodontic intervention becomes necessary when dental imperfections compromise oral function and aesthetics, affecting chewing and overall oral health. To ensure an effective outcome, orthodontic treatment is structured into three distinct phases, allowing for a comprehensive evaluation and customized treatment plans tailored to individual needs. Gradual progression through these phases minimizes undue stress on the teeth, optimizing treatment efficacy.
