Orthodontics
Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that focuses on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. It primarily deals with correcting misaligned teeth and jaws to improve both the appearance and functionality of a person’s smile.
Orthodontic treatment involves the use of various techniques and appliances to gradually shift teeth into their proper positions. The most common orthodontic appliance is braces, which consist of brackets bonded to the teeth and wires that apply gentle pressure to move the teeth over time. Braces can effectively correct crowded teeth, gaps, overbites, underbites, crossbites, and other dental misalignments.
In addition to traditional metal braces, there are also more discreet options available, such as ceramic braces that blend in with the natural tooth color or clear aligners like Invisalign. These alternatives offer a more aesthetic and less noticeable approach to orthodontic treatment, making them popular among adults and teenagers.