What is Orthodontic Treatment?

Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that examines the crowding of the teeth, the position of the jaw bones and detects and treats problems related to them. The treatment of disorders in this system is also called orthodontic treatment. Orthodontic treatment, also known as braces treatment, ensures that the teeth are positioned in the appropriate positions and an aesthetic appearance is achieved. Orthodontic treatment is performed to eliminate tooth and jaw irregularities to protect oral and dental health. Although it is thought to be a treatment that can only be applied in children, it can be applied to patients of all ages.

In which cases can orthodontic treatment be applied?
Orthodontic problems can develop due to many different reasons. It may occur due to genetic factors or it may occur over time due to habits. Early loss of milk teeth, the habit of breathing through the mouth, finger sucking, use of false pacifiers are some of the habits that cause orthodontic problems. Whether patients need orthodontic treatment is decided by orthodontists specialized in this field of dentistry. We can list the conditions that require orthodontic treatment as follows:
*If the teeth are incorrectly positioned, crowding of the teeth has occurred,
*In cases where the jaw positions are excessively in front or behind,
*If the upper and lower teeth do not contact each other when the teeth are closed,
*If there is a habit of biting the bowl or lip,
*If the teeth are positioned in front,
*If the facial appearance is not aesthetic.

Is orthodontic treatment a must?
Although orthodontic treatments are performed for aesthetic purposes, they are also treatments that should be applied to ensure oral and dental health and proper function. Problems that may occur in the jaw joint, digestive system problems that may arise as a result of improper chewing function, gum problems that may occur, undesirable conditions such as speech disorders can be eliminated with orthodontic treatment.

What are the orthodontic treatment methods?
The method to be applied in orthodontic treatment is determined by the orthodontist in line with the patient’s expectations according to the orthodontic problem. Orthodontic treatment methods that can be applied according to the aesthetic expectations of the patients and the severity of the orthodontic problem are as follows:
*Metal brackets
*Porcelain (transparent) brackets
*Transparent plates
*Lingual orthodontics (Invisible braces)

Is there pain during orthodontic treatment?
At the beginning of orthodontic treatment, there is no pain when brackets and wires are attached to the teeth. For the first week after the brackets are applied, there may be pain as the teeth start to move. After the adaptation period is completed, there is no pain.