Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that is used to treat problems with the bite called malocclusions. The word comes from the Greek word Orthos which means straight or proper. When somebody has problems in this area they will see an Orthodontist who can work at realigning the jaws and teeth. This can often improve other problems that occur as a result of the malocclusions.
It was not until the late nineteenth century that orthodontics became a practice in its own right. Until this time it was considered a part of regular dentistry. Edward Angle was the first dentist to specialize in this practice. He was a professor in the subject at a couple of universities in the United States before he concentrated solely on this practice in eighteen ninety nine.
Angle was to first to use the word malocclusions in his work. He used it to describe problems with teeth positioning or the alignment of the jaw. As the leader in this field he created many treatments, surgical techniques and appliances used for treatments that are still used in some form today.
There are two main branches of this medical field. Orthodontics is usually just concerned with the teeth and jaw. While it can be used to treat patients suffering pain, nowadays it is mostly used for aesthetic reasons, to improve the way that the patients teeth look. The second branch is Dentofacial Orthopedics. This works on reconstructing the face around the teeth, often for patients that have deformities that cause them issues.
The most common form of treatment in this specialty is the fitting of braces. These are made of a combination of metal wires and brackets that are fixed to the teeth in order to reposition them. These are often fitted in children and teenagers while the mouth and teeth are still growing. The length of time the braces need to be worn for will vary between patients. After the braces are removed the patient may need to wear a retainer for a time to ensure the best results. A retainer is a form of removable brace.
There are a number of reasons why somebody might need this kind of treatment. Common problems include crooked or twisted teeth, protruding front teeth, problems with the bite where the teeth do not meet properly, and crowding or gaps between the teeth. If treatment is required it is most likely that your regular dentist would refer you to a specialist.
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Put a smile on your face! Toronto dentists are among the worlds best. For a whiter and brighter smile ask your dentist Toronto about the benefits of orthodontics.
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