Orthodontics 101
Unlike dentistry, which centres around maintaining oral hygiene and treating common dental issues, orthodontics focuses on diagnosing, preventing, and correcting dental and jaw irregularities. Orthodontic treatment is an important part of dental care, so, naturally, you will have a few questions about what treatments are involved, how they work, and what the benefits are.
This article will cover some of the most frequently asked questions about orthodontics, helping you to feel confident and comfortable with the way orthodontists work! If you’ve got any lasting questions which we haven’t covered here, please don’t hesitate to contact us and we’ll do our best to answer them.
What Is Orthodontics?
Orthodontics is a specialised branch of dentistry that specifically looks at the alignment of teeth and jaws, helping to improve both appearance and function for a happier, healthier smile. Orthodontists are tasked with diagnosing and correcting irregularities, such as overcrowding and overbites, and supporting long-term oral health for people of all ages.
How Does an Orthodontist Differ from a Dentist?
While both orthodontists and dentists are trained in oral health, their areas of focus and educational routes differ. You’d typically visit a dentist for routine care, fillings, crowns, or cleaning, whereas an orthodontist would be the right choice if you were experiencing issues such as crooked or protruding teeth. Every orthodontist holds a General Dental degree, but they also have an additional three years of specialised education in Orthodontics.
For more information about the differences between the two, read our detailed orthodontist vs dentist comparison.
What Are the Different Types of Orthodontic Treatments?
There are many different types of orthodontic treatment available, all of which are effective in people young and old. The most common solutions to orthodontic issues include:
- Invisalign aligners
- Spark aligners
- Ceramic fixed braces
- Metallic fixed braces
- Lingual “Incognito” braces
- Removable retainers
Why Is Orthodontic Treatment Beneficial?
Orthodontic treatment offers a range of benefits that go beyond just the straightening of teeth. Properly aligned teeth and jaws improve bite function, make it easier to chew and speak, and reduce the risk of excessive tooth wear, tooth decay, and gum disease later in life by making oral hygiene easier to maintain. Additionally, orthodontic care improves facial aesthetics and boosts self-confidence.
When Should You See an Orthodontist?
You should consider seeing an orthodontist if you or your child show signs of dental misalignment, such as crooked teeth, crowding, overbites, underbites, or jaw discomfort. Ideally, orthodontic treatment should be started around the ages of 11 to 13 years old, once most or all baby teeth have been lost. However, this isn't a rigid criterion, as many people can benefit from orthodontic treatment later in life.
Are Braces Only for Teenagers?
Orthodontic treatment isn’t just for children and teenagers; it's for adults, too! Treatment such as braces or aligners is beneficial at any age, so adults who are experiencing alignment or bite issues, or those who want straighter teeth, can also see an Orthodontist to improve oral health and aesthetics.
How Long Does Treatment Take, and Does It Hurt?
There’s no blanket timeframe for treatment since every mouth is different. The complexity of your orthodontic issue and the treatment type chosen will largely determine how long it takes to straighten your teeth and fix your misalignment. Simple cases can be completed as quickly as within 6 months, but in most cases, treatment will take between 1 to 2 years.
You should experience very little pain during the course of your treatment, although your teeth may ache shortly after your braces are first fitted or after any adjustments are made. Along with this potential discomfort, you may experience periods of irritation caused by the braces, but orthodontic wax can be applied to manage any discomfort.
Will Your Teeth Stay Straight Once the Treatment Finishes?
Yes, your teeth should stay straight once your treatment has finished, as long as you follow the guidance provided by your Orthodontist.
At the end of your treatment, specialists will usually provide you with fixed or removable retainers to prevent your teeth from shifting (known as an “orthodontic relapse”). We recommend you use these for the duration outlined by your orthodontist, otherwise, your teeth may start to move, undoing your corrective treatment!
What Are the Risks Associated with Orthodontic Treatment?
On the whole, orthodontist treatment is very safe, but there are a small amount of potential risks involved. These are usually limited to mild discomfort, soreness, or irritation as teeth move and adjust. In some cases, orthodontic appliances can cause root shortening, known as “root resorption”; this typically does not cause any long-term damage unless the root shortens by up to half or more, which can affect the teeth's long-term health.
How Much Does Treatment Typically Cost?
Every private practice will have varying costs for treatment, and each method will price differently from another. Most practices will offer a free orthodontic assessment for those under 18, but adults in need of an assessment will have to pay.
Braces are typically the cheapest form of treatment. Below, we’ve given an estimate of the general costs of orthodontic treatment:
- Metallic braces often range between £2,300 to £3,800.
- Ceramic braces are priced between £2,800 to £4,500.
- Incognito braces are more expensive, costing between £3,700 to £8,800.
- Aligners, including Spark and Invisalign, often cost between £3,000 to £5,000.
Can You Have Braces if You Have a Dental Implant or Crown?
Yes, you can still have braces if you have a dental implant or crown, but certain considerations apply. Since dental implants are fixed to the jawbone and cannot move like natural teeth, orthodontists will typically design the treatment around the implant; braces can still adjust the surrounding teeth to improve overall alignment.
For crowns, orthodontic treatment is also possible, but adjustments will also need to be made. Brackets may be attached to the crown with a special adhesive, and there is often additional care needed to avoid damaging the crown surface. Clear aligners like Invisalign or Spark are often an option for patients with crowns or implants, as they are removable and offer more flexibility.
Contact Our Practice to Discuss Your Orthodontic Needs!
At Accessible Orthodontics, our Oxford-based team is experienced in handling a variety of different orthodontic issues, in both adults and children alike. We understand that you may have questions about orthodontic corrective treatment, so please do not hesitate to contact us and we’ll do our best to answer your queries!
