OralSmile Dental Clinic in Tavira offers a range of specialties, including Orthodontics.
Orthodontics is a dental specialty that corrects the position of misaligned teeth and jawbones. Crooked teeth or teeth that do not fit properly can make oral hygiene difficult, potentially leading to premature tooth loss due to decay and periodontal disease. This issue can also cause additional stress on the chewing muscles, which may result in headaches, TMJ syndrome, and pain in the neck, shoulders, and back.
Orthodontic treatment improves oral health and hygiene, providing a more attractive appearance and healthier teeth for a much longer period.
What is the recommended age to start orthodontic treatment?
It is recommended that all children have an orthodontic consultation before the age of seven to assess the need for early treatment.
What are the benefits of orthodontic treatment?
Improved facial aesthetics and smile, leading to increased self-esteem and ease in social integration.
Proper alignment of teeth, which facilitates better cleaning and reduces the risk of cavities.
Good masticatory, joint, and muscle function with evident benefits for overall health and well-being.
What causes orthodontic problems?
Orthodontic problems can be caused by hereditary factors, environmental factors, or a combination of both.
Is there an age limit for orthodontic treatment?
No. Any patient with orthodontic issues who was not treated as a child can benefit from orthodontic treatment in adulthood.
Who can perform orthodontic treatment?
Any dentist can perform orthodontic treatments; however, there are dentists who specialize in orthodontics and have additional skills for these treatments.
What types of orthodontic appliances are available?
There is a wide variety of removable and fixed appliances specially designed to move teeth and jaws into the desired positions.
Do orthodontic appliances cause pain?
No. They may cause some discomfort, especially after they are placed or adjusted.
How long does orthodontic treatment take?
It varies depending on the type of deformity and the complexity of the treatment. However, on average, treatment lasts about 24 months.
Can I play sports with braces?
Yes. However, you should use a mouthguard to protect your teeth.
Do braces interfere with playing a musical instrument?
With practice and adjustment time, braces usually do not interfere with wind instruments and those made of metal.
My teeth have been crooked for many years. Why should I use braces now?
It is never too late! Healthy teeth can be moved at any age. Orthodontic treatment can restore proper function. Teeth that function better tend to look better. A beautiful and healthy smile can help improve self-esteem at any age.
I'm pregnant and want to start orthodontic treatment. Is there any problem?
Pregnancy brings changes to the body that can affect the mouth. Soft tissues, such as gums, become much more sensitive to infections. Discuss this with your doctor and orthodontist before starting orthodontic treatment.
Do braces require any extra care?
Yes. Patients with braces need to avoid hard, sticky, elastic, and crunchy foods, as well as other hard objects like pens, pencils, and nails. Keeping the teeth and braces clean requires more precision and time and must be done daily to maintain healthy teeth and gums during and after orthodontic treatment. Clean and healthy teeth move faster.
I see advertisements for straight teeth in just one or two visits to the dentist. Will this give me straight teeth?
Crowns temporarily cover crooked teeth. Teeth aligned by an orthodontist/dentist last a lifetime.
I don't want braces that are visible. What are my options?
In some cases, braces can be placed on the inside of the mouth, behind the teeth (lingual braces). Some of today's archwires are "space age" and apply precise and gentle pressure to move the teeth as quickly and comfortably as possible. A type of translucent archwire is now in experimental stages. Another option might be using several plastic appliances instead of traditional braces to correct certain issues.
I have a tongue piercing. Will it interfere with my orthodontic treatment?
Some caution is required. Tongue piercings can contribute to appliance breakage and damage to the teeth and gums.
