Orthodontics
Orthodontics is an area of cosmetic
dentistry that deals with
straightening teeth and correcting
irregular bites (also known as
malocclusion). This is accomplished
through the use of what are known
as corrective appliances, including
braces and retainers. There are
two phases to orthodontic treatment,
the active phase and the retention
phase. The active phase involves
the use of braces to move the teeth
into their new position and the
retention phase involves the use
of a retainer to keep the teeth
in place.
Braces
Braces work to move the teeth by
applying continuous pressure in
a specific direction. This pressure
is adjusted many times over the
course of the treatment, which
can last anywhere from one to three
years, and sometimes longer. Braces
consist of brackets, which are
applied to the teeth with a bonding
agent, and arch wires, which are
threaded through the brackets and
act as a track to guide the teeth
to their new position.
Braces can be stainless steel,
plastic, or ceramic - stainless
steel is the most, but plastic
or ceramic can be chosen for cosmetic
reasons. The cost of braces varies
depending on the type of braces
used and the length of treatment,
but range between $1,800 and $5,500.
Retainers
A retainer is an orthodontic appliance
made of plastic and stainless steel
wire that is used to hold the teeth
in place after a patient's braces
have been removed. The retainer
keeps the teeth in their new position
while the surrounding bone and
gums adjust around them. The length
of time that the retainer must
be worn will vary, but most teenagers
will be advised to wear their retainer
until their early 20s.
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