COMPLETE ORTHODONTIC TREATEMENT

• Orthodontics  is a  specialty that addresses the diagnosis, prevention, management, and correction of mal-positioned teeth and jaws, and misaligned bite patterns
•  It address  as a modification of facial growth, known as dentofacial orthopedics.
• Treatment may require several months to a few years, and entails using dental braces and other appliances to gradually adjust tooth position and jaw alignment.
• In few severe cases , jaw surgery may also  incorporated in the treatment plan.
•  Treatment becomes successful when it begins just before a person reaches his/her adulthood, reason being as pre-adult bones may be adjusted more easily before adulthood.
• Braces are usually placed on the front side of the teeth, but they may also be placed on the side facing the tongue (called lingual braces). Brackets made out of stainless steel or porcelain are bonded to the center of the teeth using an adhesive.
•  Wires are placed in a slot in the brackets which allows for controlled movement in all three dimensions.
• The time required for braces varies from person to person as it depends on the severity of the problem.
• However, once the braces are put on, they usually remain in place for one to three years. After braces are removed, most patients will need to wear a retainer all the time for the first six months, then only during sleep for many years.