Orthodontics

Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that covers a wide range of procedures related to correcting the position and appearance of teeth.

At the Astra Dent office, we offer a wide range of services and solutions. Our specialists will select the appropriate method of treatment for both children and adults.

Why should one undergo orthodontic treatment?

Correct bite is not only about beauty, but also about health and oral hygiene. The incorrect position of the teeth also affects the work and appearance of the facial muscles, as well as the load on the temporomandibular joint. Improper functioning of these organs can cause chewing problems, malaise or severe headaches. The consequence of a crooked bite can also be a speech defect.

What methods and procedures are available in the Astra Dent orthodontic office?

Orthodontics is constantly developing, so more and more new alternative methods of treatment appear. They differ mainly in the duration of the treatment course and possible rehabilitation.

Before starting the treatment, we carry out a detailed diagnosis, in particular with the help of radiography and computed tomography. At Astra Dent, we offer a wide selection of fixed appliances: classic metal, ceramic, resin, crystal, self-ligating, lingual, and we also use alternative means to correct bite defects, such as overlay appliances.

Sometimes it is necessary to perform another procedure before starting orthodontic treatment, for example, tooth extraction or jaw expansion. All additional services that complement the course of treatment are available at Astra Dent and are carried out under the supervision of our specialists.

The most common bite defects include:

• open bite,
• crossbite,
• backbite,
• front bite,
• deep bite,
• clenching and unclenching of teeth.

It is worth noting that orthodontics is often confused with dental orthopedics. The latter deals with correcting the condition of our jaw in case of irregularities caused by injuries.

When should you contact an orthodontist?

Correction of bite defects is a treatment for people of all ages. However, it is worth noting that results are achieved much faster when patients are younger. Adults’ bone tissue is already formed and has less plasticity. In addition, the sooner we decide to go to orthodontists for consultation and treatment, the lower the risk of tooth decay. In addition, in many cases, orthodontic treatment opens the door to work on speech defects.

Our orthodontists approach diagnosis comprehensively. Bite defects can cause various diseases that go beyond oral cavity disorders, for example:

• headaches and backaches;
• diseases of the gastrointestinal tract;
• violation of posture;
• general mental disorders;
• speech and breathing disorders;
• violation of symmetry and shape of the face.

When should I take my child to the orthodontist for the first time?

The first visit to the orthodontist is recommended when the child is about 2.5 years old. From this moment on, we regularly monitor whether baby’s milk teeth are growing correctly. Our specialists assess whether the introduction of orthodontic treatment is necessary already at this stage. As long as the majority of the teeth are milk, a mobile device is usually used.

What is the treatment?

Orthodontic treatment can be divided into two phases: correction of defects (active phase) and fixation (retention). During the first visit, the orthodontist makes a diagnosis. If it detects defects or caries, the patient must first undergo general treatment.

When the teeth are completely healthy, we make an impression of the jaw. After the diagnosis, we discuss the treatment method with the patient. The orthodontists at Astra Dent offer a treatment plan that typically lasts from one to several years.