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The Magic of Orthodontics
The Original Smile Makeover
by Dr. Roger J. Wise and Dr. John R. Bednar
One of the most important considerations in smile design is the position of the teeth themselves - how they actually fit into the framework of the face and jaws and how the upper and lower jaws relate to each other. By analogy, before building or renovating a house it's important to determine whether the foundation is not only sound, but in the right position.
Only orthodontic treatment can move teeth into a better position.
Orthodontics is a sub-specialty of dentistry devoted to the study and treatment of malocclusions (improper bites). Improper bites may result from tooth irregularity or positioning, disproportionate jaw relationships, or both. Orthodontics involves moving the teeth to a better position - and possibly much more.
Orthodontic appliances, commonly known as "braces," describe the small brackets placed on teeth through which little flexible wires are threaded. These wires place light forces on the teeth, as they tend to straighten themselves to their undistorted forms, while moving the teeth with them. When a light and controlled force is placed on the tooth on the "tension" or pulling side, new bone, ligament and cementum (the surface layer of the root) are formed.
Overall, the goals of orthodontic treatment are esthetics, function, health, and stability. The diagnosis of tooth position discrepancies and bite issues, including why your teeth are "where they are," is fundamental. It is equally imperative to determine where they should be, the method for moving your teeth, and the stability and retention of the result once the treatment has been completed.
That's why an orthodontist - or a dentist with advanced training and experience in orthodontics - is so critical to your treatment plan.
Read more about The Magic of Orthodontics in the full print article in Dear Doctor - Dentistry & Oral Health, Volume 2 - Issue 1.
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