FAQs

Orthodontics is a specialised field of dentistry focused on diagnosing, preventing, and treating dental and facial irregularities. It involves the use of braces, aligners, and other devices to correct misaligned teeth and jaws, aiming to improve oral function, aesthetic appearance, and overall dental health.

Orthodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry focused on diagnosing, preventing, and treating dental and facial irregularities. It primarily deals with the correction of misaligned teeth and jaws, often through the use of braces, aligners, and other orthodontic appliances. The goal of orthodontic treatment is not only to improve the appearance and alignment of teeth but also to enhance oral function and health. Misalignments, known as malocclusions, can lead to difficulties in chewing, speaking, and maintaining oral hygiene. Orthodontics plays a crucial role in improving overall oral health, preventing long-term dental issues, and boosting patients' confidence by enhancing their smile. Treatment plans are tailored to each individual's needs and can vary in duration and complexity, depending on the severity of the alignment issues.

Individuals with dental issues such as overcrowding, misalignments, bite problems, or aesthetic concerns may benefit from orthodontics. Treatment can improve oral health, functionality, and appearance, and is tailored to the needs of both children and adults.

Orthodontics is beneficial for individuals with various dental alignment issues, commonly known as malocclusions. These include conditions like overcrowded teeth, widely spaced teeth, overbites, underbites, crossbites, and open bites. People who experience difficulty in biting, chewing, or speaking due to misaligned teeth or jaws are also ideal candidates for orthodontic treatment. Additionally, those who are self-conscious about the appearance of their teeth due to misalignment may seek orthodontic care for aesthetic improvements. It's not limited to any specific age group; while often associated with children and teenagers, adults too can benefit from orthodontic treatments. An evaluation by an orthodontist can determine if and when someone should begin treatment, which is tailored to address their specific alignment issues and improve overall oral health and functionality.

Age can influence orthodontic treatment regarding the types of treatment options available and the duration of treatment. Children and teenagers may have shorter treatment times due to their developing jaws and teeth, while adults might require more time due to the maturity of their bone structure. However, orthodontic treatment is effective at any age, with considerations made for individual dental health and orthodontic needs.

Whilst a referral from a dentist to see an orthodontist is common and can aid with continuity of care, it is not always necessary. Many orthodontists accept patients without a referral, allowing individuals to schedule consultations directly if they have concerns about their teeth alignment or bite.

Orthodontists may recommend the removal of teeth as part of the treatment plan to address overcrowding, improve bite alignment, or optimise the results of braces or other orthodontic devices. However, this is not always necessary and depends on the specific needs of the patient.

Orthodontic treatment can cause discomfort, especially following adjustments to braces or the fitting of new orthodontic appliances. This discomfort is usually temporary and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Here at Terenure Orthodontics, we strive to minimise discomfort for patients throughout their treatment.

The duration of orthodontic treatment varies widely among patients, typically ranging from 18 months to 3 years. Factors influencing treatment time include the complexity of the issues being corrected, the type of treatment selected, and the patient's adherence to the orthodontist's instructions.

Some patients may require additional treatment in the future, especially if they do not consistently wear their retainers or if their dental structure naturally changes. Follow-up care is crucial to maintaining the results achieved through initial orthodontic treatment.

The eruption of wisdom teeth can potentially affect dental alignment for some patients. At Terenure Orthodontics, we will monitor these teeth and recommend removal if they threaten to disrupt the results of orthodontic treatment or cause other dental issues.

Potential risks include, but are not limited to, discomfort from the movement of teeth, potential for minor gum or mouth irritation from braces, and the rare risk of tooth root resorption. Additionally, maintaining excellent oral hygiene is crucial during treatment, as braces can make it easier for plaque to build up, potentially leading to tooth decay or gum disease if proper care is not followed. However, these risks are minimised through careful planning, personalised treatment, and ongoing support from our team. We ensure our patients are fully informed and prepared to manage their orthodontic care effectively, emphasising the importance of regular check-ups and good oral hygiene practices.

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by the age of 7. This early assessment allows the orthodontist to identify potential issues and plan for intervention at the optimal time, although treatment may not start immediately. Here at Terenure Orthodontics, we offer free consultations from the ages of 7-9 years of age. This not only allows us to spot problems early but also to develop good relationships with our patients and their parents too.