Protruding teeth, spaced teeth, crowded teeth, and jaws with abnormal size or position are common conditions. These abnormalities not only directly affect oral health but also cause problems with appearance. We cannot deny that having a good appearance, straight teeth, and a beautiful smile helps build our confidence and leaves a strong impression on others.
Change the misconception: “Orthodontics” is not a fashion!!!
Nowadays, many people may see orthodontics as a kind of fashion, even calling it “fashion braces.” But in reality, orthodontics is a branch of dental treatment used to correct the alignment of teeth, the bite, as well as the size and position of the jaws. Moreover, orthodontics also prevents abnormalities that may occur in the future if patients do not receive early treatment.
Here is the reason… why? We should regularly visit the dentist
If you or your children regularly visit the dentist for check-ups, the dentist can advise whether you need to see an orthodontist. Because the abnormalities found can vary in severity, some need to be corrected early in childhood, such as at ages 5-6 or 8-9 years, because if left untreated, it can affect the growth of facial bones and cause facial deformities.
Meanwhile, some conditions like mild crowding, rotated teeth, or spacing in young children may not require treatment at all, as these are natural occurrences during the transition from baby teeth to permanent teeth, and nature can correct itself. However, parents and children must receive proper guidance. In some cases involving jaw size abnormalities, treatment may need to wait until growth is complete, around 18-20 years old, and then be corrected with orthodontics combined with jaw surgery.
What is the appropriate age for “orthodontic treatment”?
Usually, the last baby tooth falls out around age 12, which is an appropriate time for orthodontic treatment if there are no jaw bone problems involved, as all permanent teeth have erupted (excluding the third molars, often mistakenly called “wisdom teeth”). Children at this age also have good tooth brushing skills to maintain oral hygiene while wearing braces.
What about adults? Can they still get orthodontic treatment?
Actually, adults can still get orthodontic treatment if they have strong enough teeth, gums, and supporting bone. However, it must be accepted that tooth movement is slower than in children and there is a higher chance of gum recession.
How long does orthodontic treatment usually take?
Generally, orthodontic treatment takes about 2-3 years, depending on the severity of the problem and the patient’s cooperation, such as maintaining the cleanliness of the braces, avoiding appliance breakage, using elastics as recommended by the orthodontist, and attending appointments regularly.
Teenagers often get braces even without any problems. Will this cause any harm?
Those with no dental problems “should not get braces” because having appliances attached to the teeth makes brushing difficult. Poor hygiene can lead to tooth decay and gum inflammation. Also, once appliances are attached, teeth will shift positions, which can cause chewing problems that did not exist before.
