What are orthodontics?

What are orthodontics?

Orthodontics in Navan are a field of dentistry which automatically brings the word ‘braces’ to mind. Traditional metal braces are typically thought of most often and use a combination of metal brackets and wires to realign the position of the teeth within the mouth. These metal braces may be considered unsightly, but can produce a change in teeth alignment fairly quickly. Orthodontics aim to straighten the teeth, but can also be used for alternative purposes like jaw realignment.

 

Individuals who may choose braces

Despite common misconception, braces are not only suitable for patients with misaligned teeth, but also for those suffering from an overbite. An ‘overbite’ is essentially the position of the top row of the teeth being further forward than the bottom row of the teeth. An overbite can be caused by the use of a dummy as a child, but can also occur naturally.

The more traditional use of braces is to straighten the teeth, a cosmetic treatment, the results of which can last a lifetime, when the use of retainers is maintained. Teeth can be overcrowded which can cause an unsightly appearance. Patients suffering from misaligned teeth may be motivated by low self-esteem and may wish to increase their self-confidence.

 

Is there more than one type of brace?

Traditional metal braces are not the only form of braces used in modern dentistry. Despite traditional metal braces being effective, some patients may wish for more subtle braces.

 

Alternative types of braces

Clear aligners are transparent trays which are virtually invisible. Clear aligners could be argued as the most aesthetically pleasing form of orthodontics, due to their invisible appearance, and fast acting results. Clear aligners are custom made for each patient, and have the benefit of causing a reduced number of ulcers or abrasions within the mouth.

Inman aligners are an alternative form which are also more subtle than traditional metal braces. Inman aligners are removable, and contain a single unobtrusive metal wire.

How they work

Inman aligners work by using titanium coil springs which gently oppose each other. The titanium coil springs gently encourage the teeth to move in a positive direction, producing a straight smile.

 

The financial cost of orthodontic work

It is important to remember that each individual dental practice differs greatly in what they will charge, and the varying complexity of each dental case obviously has a bearing on the cost of treatment. However what must be remembered is that orthodontic treatment is an investment in a patient’s future self-confidence, dental health and overall well-being. Straighter teeth enable a patient to keep them cleaner, thereby quite possibly reducing the need for dental work in the future, thus saving money. If teeth have been ill-placed in the past this may have impacted on speech, digestion and been the cause of embarrassment in social settings. Many people have been surprised at just how much these cosmetic procedures have impacted positively on their lives.

 

Finance plans

Many modern dental clinics offer their patients monthly finance plans, these monthly finance plans allow patients to avoid a hefty upfront cost, as they are able to pay monthly for their chosen dental treatment.

 

Tax reduction

As well as monthly finance methods, tax reduction may also be available. Individuals who do not receive dentistry under a private dental care plan or the state may be eligible for this. Patients may be able to claim back 20% of their dental fees, which can make a huge difference financially.