Orthodontic treatment

Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that corrects teeth and jaws that are positioned improperly. It focuses on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial irregularities, achieving both functional and aesthetic improvements.

Orthodontic treatment uses various corrective devices to adjust the coordination between facial bones, teeth, and the nerves and muscles of the jaw area. This includes correcting abnormal relationships between the upper and lower jaws, between upper and lower teeth, and between teeth and jaw bones. The ultimate goal is to achieve balance, stability, and aesthetics of the oral and maxillofacial system.

The optimal timing for orthodontic treatment varies by age group:

1. Primary dentition period (ages 3-5).

The main goal is to promote normal development of the child's jaws and face. This stage primarily addresses anterior crossbite (underbite), mandibular protrusion, posterior crossbite, and other malocclusions that hinder normal facial development. It also involves timely correction of bad oral habits such as tongue thrusting and lip biting to prevent further malocclusion.

2. Mixed dentition period (girls: ages 8-10; boys: ages 9-12).

Mild local misalignment during this period generally does not require immediate correction. However, bad habits such as lip biting, tongue thrusting, or mandibular protrusion, as well as facial abnormalities, anterior crossbite, functional mandibular retrusion, or abnormal jaw relationships, should be promptly evaluated by an orthodontic specialist to determine whether the condition is dental, functional, or skeletal in nature, and to establish an appropriate treatment plan.

3. Permanent dentition period (girls: ages 11-14; boys: ages 13-15).

Around age 12, the permanent dentition is largely established. Once misalignment occurs, it will not resolve on its own and can only be corrected through professional orthodontic treatment. This is the optimal period for correcting dental misalignment, yielding the best results. All types of malocclusion can be treated during this stage.

The duration of orthodontic treatment is typically around two years, but may vary depending on the patient's age, severity of the condition, and how the teeth respond to treatment. Good cooperation with the orthodontist, attending scheduled appointments, maintaining oral hygiene, and keeping the appliances undamaged can significantly improve treatment efficiency.

Our specialists at Pu Jing Dental Clinic remind you that wearing braces does not mean you can relax your oral care routine. During orthodontic treatment, careful attention must be paid to diet and oral hygiene. Poor dietary and oral care habits may prolong treatment time and affect the final outcome. To prevent tooth decay, minimize intake of sweets and carbonated beverages during treatment. After each meal, thoroughly clean your mouth using proper brushing techniques, supplemented with dental floss and interdental brushes to prevent enamel demineralization, cavities, gingivitis, and other complications.