What is orthodontics?
Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that deals with teeth alignment to correct malocclusions (improper bites) and also the modification of facial growth. While orthodontic treatment has traditionally been recommended for functional reasons (i.e. to improve a patient’s bite), it is increasingly used for aesthetic reasons to improve a person’s appearance.
What is orthodontics used for?
Orthodontics uses orthodontic appliances such as braces and invisalign, to correct improperly aligned teeth, crowded or unevenly spaced teeth, protruding teeth, extra or missing teeth, misaligned jaws and bite problems.
Alignment problems could also have arisen through accidents (e.g. jaw fracture), prolonged thumb sucking or pacifier sucking in older children, missing teeth, premature or late loss of baby teeth, tumors in the mouth, dental disease or improperly fitted fillings, crowns or braces.
Conventional Braces
Orthodontics does more than just making us look good. With braces, you can:
Chew your food better
Chewing is the first step in digestion. If your teeth are crooked, you will not be able to chew your food properly which can lead to indigestion.
Avoid potential dental problems
Crooked teeth are hard to clean. Therefore, people with crooked teeth tend to have more cavities and gum problems than people who have orthodontic treatment. Crooked teeth wear in ways that they should not. This puts extra stress on your teeth, gums and jaw, which can lead to problems later on.
All orthodontics procedures at Raffles Dental are performed by specialists (Orthodontists).
Invisalign
Invisalign is a new revolutionary treatment option to patients seeking to do orthodontic treatment. Through a series of nearly invisible, completely removable plastic aligners, invisalign gradually moves your teeth to give you back the beautiful smile you have always wanted – without brackets or wires. You can still enjoy all your favourite foods, and brush and floss normally!
Invisalign is an appropriate treatment option for teens and adults whose teeth have grown in fully, including second molars. To understand more about invisalign, please make an appointment online to schedule an initial screening with our orthodontist. As always, we look forward to discussing any questions or concerns you may have regarding any aspect of your dental health.