Orthodontics

It should be noted that there is no age limit for orthodontic treatment. Many people wrongly believe that these corrections are only possible in children.

In fact, the only prerequisite for this type of treatment is healthy teeth and gums. Lack of information and motivation, inaccessibility of treatment and cost are just some of the reasons that people do not undergo treatment until later in life.

Between the ages of 30 and 50, many adults become aware of the importance of health and in particular oral health. They understand that the mouth and our ability to chew has a great effect on the rest of the digestive system. Some people choose this type of treatment purely for aesthetic reasons, while others opt for orthodontic treatments to alleviate pain and discomfort.

 

Several treatments are possible. We may consider, among others, the alignment of the teeth which can be done with braces (with or without elastic bands), removable devices, etc. During the last ten years, fixed braces have become much smaller and significantly more discreet. 

 

These treatments can also include the fitting of veneers on some of the teeth (veneers are small, ceramic plates that cover the tooth in order to improve the appearance). 

Someone who has lost teeth or has wobbly teeth can still suffer from bad alignment. This means that the teeth do not fit together well due to skeletal malformation. This could be for several reasons including hereditariness, wear of the teeth, the result of accidental of loss of teeth. In cases like this, it is not enough to simply replace the missing teeth. Orthodontic treatment is required to reposition the remaining teeth before those missing can be replaced.  

In cases of severe mandibular deviation (for example after an accident), a combination of orthodontic treatment and Maxillofacial surgery may be necessary. 

 

These two areas are specific to each individual patient, but are necessary to make the decision of whether or not to undergo treatment. The length of the correction process depends upon the complexity of the problem, the type of treatment and the condition of the patient. However, the benefits will be for life! In most cases it is necessary to wear complete fixed braces for between 6 and 18 months, sometimes longer. A retainer will then be worn for a period ranging from several months to two years. 

Some people may have to wear a retainer permanently, which could be either fixed or removable (fixed retainers are thin metal wires which are attached to the back of the teeth, and therefore are not visible). 

 

So, you want to improve your teeth, but the duration or the complexity of treatment is causing doubts? You don’t like the idea or wearing metal braces and wires? Don’t worry, there is a course of treatment to suit you. Some people are still reluctant to undergo certain treatments, particularly because of their duration. Of course, the best treatment is a complete one, even though it takes longer. However, there are always faster and cheaper alternatives. For example, to improve the appearance of the teeth, a specialist could help to realign them using a much shorter treatment plan. They may also suggest the option of veneers, which could be a good compromise and also save you time. In most cases there are one or two possible treatment alternatives.