If you have teeth that are crowded, crooked, protruding, out of alignment, have irregular spacing or an irregular bite; dental braces can correct this by moving the teeth into the ideal position. For many years dental braces have helped to create a more attractive and healthier smile in children and adults. We encourage parents to have children come in for the initial evaluation around age seven. This would be the optimal time to evaluate skeletal development and to identify the position of the permanent teeth. Incorrect jaw bone development can be rectified early. Every child’s needs are unique, for some it is best to begin treatment before all the permanent teeth are in. This is called interceptive treatment. For others it makes more sense to wait until adult teeth have erupted and their roots have permanently formed. Teeth with proper alignment will create fewer cramped spaces in which food can become trapped causing plaque to develop. Neatly aligned teeth will therefore boast healthier gums and be easier to care for when it comes to brushing and flossing.
Fixed Metal/Ceramic Braces
Traditional orthodontics consist of fixed, metal or ceramic braces that are attached to the teeth and which use brackets combined with wires and elastics. Most people will need to wear braces for at least a year and possibly quite a lot longer depending on the severity of the case.
Hidden Braces
Hidden braces are fixed braces that are attached to the lingual or back surfaces of your teeth, ensuring they are hidden from view. Ideal if you want your treatment to go unnoticed.
Clear Aligners
Clear braces use a system of removable aligners that fit comfortably over the teeth. The removable aligners look a little like teeth whitening trays, and each set is worn for approximately two weeks before being changed for a fresh set to continue to move the teeth into their new positions. This system of teeth straightening has become increasingly popular, especially among adults who are looking to straighten their teeth discretely for mild corrections. This treatment is not used for severe misalignment or malocclusions. If you feel that you may benefit from braces, book a consultation with our orthodontist at Muscat Dental Specialists now.
Surgical Orthodontics
Surgical orthodontics also known as orthognathic surgery, is a type of treatment used to correct severe cases that include misaligned bites and jaw bone abnormalities. Surgical orthodontics can be used to treat adults with deficient bites or other aesthetic concerns. In order to receive orthognathic surgery, jaw growth must be at an end. The need for surgical orthodontics occurs when the jaws do not line up correctly and a proper bite cannot be achieved with orthodontic treatment alone. Orthognathic surgery will help properly align the jaw and orthodontic braces will then be used to move the teeth into their proper position.
Dento Facial Orthopaedics
Dentofacial orthopaedics is used to realign the face as the jaw bones, facial muscles and teeth grow and mature. Since facial growth happens mostly during the younger years, children are the main recipients of dental orthopaedics. This procedure is carried out with the use of an appliance/ appliances that encourages proper growth in order to achieve harmony within the face. Such treatment can be done before orthodontic treatment begins or in conjunction with it, if the orthodontist feels it necessary. This treatment often involves a two-phase process and often begins when the patient is around 7 or 8 years old.
