What’s orthodontic treatment?
Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry focused on diagnosing, preventing, and correcting malocclusions, which are misalignments of the teeth and jaws. While often associated with cosmetic improvements, orthodontic treatment also addresses functional issues such as difficulties with chewing, speaking, and breathing. Moreover, straight teeth are easier to clean, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
Why teens might need orthodontics
Common orthodontic issues in teenagers
Overbite: When the upper teeth excessively overlap the lower teeth, it can lead to problems with chewing and may cause wear on the lower teeth.
Underbite: This occurs when the lower teeth protrude over the upper teeth, which can affect the appearance of the face and cause difficulties in biting and chewing.
Crossbite: When some of the upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth when biting down, it can cause uneven wear on the teeth and lead to jaw pain.
Open bite: If the upper and lower teeth don’t meet when biting down, it can make eating and speaking difficult.
Crowding: When teeth are too close together, it can make brushing and flossing challenging, leading to plaque buildup, cavities, and gum disease.
Spacing: Gaps between teeth can occur due to missing teeth or teeth that are too small for the jaw. This can affect the aesthetics of a smile and sometimes the function of the teeth.
Benefits of early orthodontic treatment
Improved self-esteem: Teenagers are often self-conscious about their appearance. Straight teeth can significantly boost their confidence, making them feel better about themselves in social situations and at school. A confident smile can positively influence their overall well-being and mental health.
Enhanced oral health: When teeth are misaligned, they create areas that are hard to clean, making them prone to plaque buildup, which can cause cavities and gum disease. Straightening teeth makes it easier to maintain good oral hygiene, which is essential for long-term dental health.
Correct bite: Proper alignment of the teeth ensures that the upper and lower jaws work together correctly. Issues like overbite, underbite, and crossbite can interfere with chewing and speaking and can even lead to jaw pain and other complications. Addressing these issues early can prevent them from becoming more severe and potentially reduce the need for more extensive treatments in the future.
Improved facial aesthetics: Orthodontic treatment can enhance the overall appearance of the face. Correcting jaw alignment can lead to a more balanced and harmonious facial structure, contributing to a more attractive smile and better overall facial aesthetics. This can significantly boost a teenager’s self-confidence and how they are perceived by others.
Types of orthodontics
Today, there are several orthodontic treatment options available to cater to different needs and preferences. Your dentist or orthodontist will recommend the best treatment based on your specific needs and goals.
Traditional metal braces: These are the most common type of braces, made of high-grade stainless steel. They consist of metal brackets bonded to the teeth and connected by wires and tiny rubber bands.
Advantages: Modern metal braces are more comfortable and efficient than ever before. They are very effective for treating a wide range of orthodontic issues, from mild to severe.
Considerations: While noticeable, many teens customise their braces with colourful rubber bands to add a fun, personal touch.
Ceramic braces: These braces are similar to traditional metal braces but are made of clear or tooth-coloured ceramic, making them less noticeable.
Advantages: They are a popular choice for teenagers who are conscious about their appearance because they blend in with the natural colour of the teeth.
Considerations: Ceramic braces can be slightly more expensive and may require more care to avoid staining. They are also somewhat more fragile than metal braces.
Clear aligners (e.g., Invisalign): These are a series of custom-made, clear plastic trays that fit over the teeth and gradually move them into place. Invisalign is the most well-known brand.
Advantages: Clear aligners are virtually invisible, removable for eating and cleaning, and generally more comfortable than braces since they have no metal parts.
Considerations: They need to be worn for 20-22 hours a day to be effective and require discipline to keep up with the treatment plan. They are ideal for mild to moderate orthodontic issues.
Lingual braces: These braces are attached to the back (lingual side) of the teeth, making them completely invisible from the front.
Advantages: They provide the benefits of traditional braces without being visible, which is great for teens who are very self-conscious about their appearance.
Considerations: Lingual braces can be more challenging to clean and adjust, and they may take some time to get used to as they can initially affect speech and comfort.
Expanders: These are appliances used to widen the upper jaw, creating more space for crowded teeth. They are often used in younger teens or pre-teens whose jaws are still growing.
Advantages: Expanders can effectively correct crossbites and prevent the need for tooth extraction by creating space for teeth to align properly.
Considerations: They might feel unusual at first and require some adjustment, but they are typically worn for only a few months to a year, depending on the treatment plan.
Factors to consider when choosing orthodontics
Severity of the orthodontic problem
The type of treatment will depend on the complexity of the issue.
Your dentist or orthodontist will assess your teen’s teeth and jaw alignment to recommend the most appropriate and effective orthodontics.
Teen’s preference
It’s important to involve your teen in the decision-making process to ensure they feel comfortable and motivated.
The orthodontic experience
Once you begin, you’ll have regular appointments for adjustments and check-ups. These visits are crucial for ensuring that your treatment is progressing as planned. During these appointments, your dentist will make any necessary adjustments to your braces or aligners to keep everything on track.
It’s normal to experience some discomfort, especially after adjustments. However, modern orthodontic techniques and materials have greatly improved the comfort and efficiency of treatment. Advances in technology mean that most people experience less pain and a shorter treatment time than in the past.
Managing discomfort and ensuring treatment success
Oral hygiene: Maintaining excellent oral hygiene is crucial for preventing discomfort and complications. Regular brushing and flossing help keep your teeth and aligners or braces clean, which minimises irritation and prevents issues like cavities and gum disease.
Regular appointments: Attend all scheduled appointments with your dentist. These visits are vital for tracking your progress and making necessary adjustments to your treatment plan, ensuring everything is progressing as intended.
Soft foods: Especially during the initial adjustment period, eating soft foods can help alleviate discomfort. Choose foods that are gentle on your teeth, such as yogurt, mashed potatoes, and soups, to avoid irritating your braces.
Orthodontic wax: If you’re using traditional braces, orthodontic wax can be applied to cover sharp edges and reduce irritation inside your mouth. This makes wearing braces more comfortable.
Over-the-counter pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers can be effective in managing discomfort. Follow the recommended dosage instructions to ease any pain or soreness you might experience.
Clear aligners: If you’re using clear aligners, managing discomfort is generally simpler. The aligners are designed to fit snugly and are less likely to irritate. However, you might feel some pressure or soreness as your teeth shift. Wear your aligners as directed to minimise discomfort and avoid switching to a new set too soon. Using a cold compress on your teeth can also help alleviate any soreness.
Patience and perseverance are the key
Orthodontic treatment is a process that takes time, and it’s important to encourage your teen to be patient and persistent throughout their journey. Remind them that the effort they put in now will lead to a stunning, healthy smile that’s well worth the wait.
Each teen’s orthodontic journey is unique, and what works best can vary from person to person. Consulting with an experienced dentist or orthodontist will help you find the most effective treatment option tailored to your teen’s specific needs. With professional care, good oral hygiene, and regular check-ups, they won’t just get a healthier smile—they’ll get one that’s selfie-ready, jaw-dropping, and built to last.
