Dental Braces Before & After and Facial Changes with Braces

I will inform you about the changes before and after orthodontic treatment and facial changes due to orthodontic treatment. Orthodontic treatment has the effect of improving oral health as well as appearance and pronunciation. In this post, I will talk about the changes before and after orthodontic treatment and facial changes due to orthodontic treatment.

Definition of Orthodontic Treatment

Orthodontic treatment is a procedure that primarily focuses on correcting irregularities in the teeth and face using orthodontic appliances. This treatment involves aligning the teeth, correcting bite problems, and improving overall oral health.

Importance of Orthodontic Treatment

Orthodontic treatment is not just about improving the appearance of a person's smile. It can also prevent cavities, gum disease, and jaw problems. Properly aligned teeth and jaws make it easier to bite and chew food, and can also improve pronunciation. Orthodontic treatment can enhance a person's self-esteem and confidence, leading to improved social interaction and relationships.

Types of Orthodontic Treatment

a. Braces

Metal braces, which have been used for a long time, are the most common type of orthodontic treatment. This is a device that attaches to the teeth with metal brackets and wires, applying pressure to slowly move the teeth to the desired position. Advantages include high efficiency and the ability to treat a wide range of orthodontic problems. The disadvantages are the discomfort of wearing them and the need for regular adjustments.

b. Clear Aligners

Clear aligners, such as Invisalign, are orthodontic appliances made of clear plastic that are molded to fit the teeth. They can move teeth to the desired position using relatively gentle pressure. Advantages include being less noticeable than traditional braces for cosmetic purposes and can be removed for eating and brushing. Disadvantages include the need for strict adherence to aligner wear and they are more expensive than traditional braces.

c. Lingual Braces

Lingual braces are similar to traditional metal braces, but they are placed on the back of the teeth, making them virtually invisible. The advantage is that they are less noticeable than conventional braces, thus resolving aesthetic issues. The disadvantages are discomfort and difficulty in maintaining cleanliness.

d. Self-ligating Braces

Self-ligating braces use special clips to hold the wire in place instead of elastic bands, making them more comfortable and easier to clean. Advantages include a faster treatment time compared to conventional braces and fewer visits to the clinic due to orthodontic adjustments. The disadvantages are that they are more expensive than conventional orthodontic appliances and adjustments of the appliance are difficult.

e. Palatal Expander

A palatal expander is a device used to widen the upper jaw to correct bite problems. The advantage is that it is effective in correcting bite problems, especially in young patients whose jaws are still growing, and the disadvantage is that it can be uncomfortable to wear and difficult to speak while wearing it.
Each treatment method has its own advantages and disadvantages, and an orthodontist will recommend the most suitable option based on the patient's needs.

Before Orthodontic Treatment

1. Evaluation by an Orthodontist

The first step is to get an evaluation from an orthodontist. The orthodontist will examine the patient's teeth, gums, and jaw to determine the most suitable treatment approach. This may include taking X-rays of the teeth and impressions.

2. Treatment Preparation

Patients need to prepare for the treatment process, which may include wearing braces for several months or even years. It is important to understand the proper care and maintenance of the braces, including proper oral hygiene and dietary restrictions.

3. Choosing the Right Treatment Option

Choosing the right treatment approach is crucial for the success of the treatment. Factors to consider include the severity of dental and facial irregularities, the patient's age, and personal preferences.

During Orthodontic Treatment

1. Installation and Adjustment of Braces

The orthodontist will install the braces and make regular adjustments to ensure that the teeth and jaw are properly aligned. The time required for treatment varies depending on the severity of the irregularities and the type of treatment used.

2. Importance of Oral Hygiene

Proper oral hygiene is important during orthodontic treatment to prevent cavities and gum disease. Patients should brush and floss regularly and use special tools to keep the braces and wires clean.

3. Maintaining a Healthy Diet

During orthodontic treatment, it is important to maintain a healthy diet while avoiding foods that can damage the braces or cause cavities. The orthodontist will provide specific dietary recommendations based on the patient's treatment plan.

4. Managing Discomfort and Pain

Discomfort and pain are common during orthodontic treatment, especially after adjustments. The orthodontist will recommend pain relievers and provide tips for managing discomfort.

After Orthodontic Treatment

1. Removal of Braces

The orthodontist will remove the braces and make any necessary adjustments to the teeth and jaw. The removal process is painless, but the teeth may be sensitive for a short time.

2. Retainers and Their Importance

After treatment, patients need to wear retainers to maintain the alignment of their teeth and prevent them from shifting back to their original positions. The orthodontist will provide specific instructions on how to use the retainers.

3. Follow-up Care

Regular follow-up appointments with the orthodontist are necessary to ensure that the treatment is effective. The orthodontist will monitor the alignment of the teeth and jaw and make any necessary adjustments.

4. Smile Transformation

Orthodontic treatment can significantly improve the appearance of a person's smile. Patients may also choose additional cosmetic procedures, such as teeth whitening, to further enhance their smile.

In Conclusion

Orthodontic treatment is an important procedure for improving dental and facial irregularities. It is important to choose the right treatment method and maintain proper oral hygiene and diet during treatment. After the procedure, patients should wear retainers and follow up with their orthodontist to maintain the results of the orthodontic procedure.