Orthodontics is the area
of dentistry dedicated to the diagnosis, prevention and treatment
of alignment problems of the teeth and jaws.
Orthodontic treatment
involves the design and use of coorective appliances such as
braces, plates, headgears and functional appliances to bring
the teeth and jaws into proper alignment.
The key Biological principle
that allows orthodontists to move teeth centers on the fact
that human bone tissue, just like other parts of our bodies,
contantly regenerates at a cellular level regardless of age.
Teeth roots are anchored
in the jaw, so the question of how quickly misaligned teeth
can be 'encouraged' to move to an ideal position is governed
by the rate of bone cell regeneration.
Many complex and inter-related
factors must be considered and understood in applying the laws
of physics to human biology. Every patient is a unique human
being, therefore every orthodontic treatment must also be unique.
When
should orthodontic treatment be started?
While
orthodontics can benefit nearly anyone at any age with orthodontic
problems, treatment should ideally start in the pre- or early-teens.
Since the difficulty and length of treatment rises with age,
treating dental malocclusions as early as possible can save
time and money.
Who treats Orthodontics?
An Orthodontic Practioner
is a highly trained practioner who has not only graduated as
a dental surgeon but has returned to University for further
training in Orthodontics. Your orthodontic Practioner will work
with your dentist to provide you with the best treatment plan
to suit your needs.
Why Choose Dr Phillip
F. Ajaje?
Dr Phillip F. Ajaje is
a highly trained Orthodontic Practioner in the field of orthodontics.
He is highly trained in a wide range of techniques and limits
his practice exclusively to orthodontics and dentofacial
orthopedics. Dr Phillip F. Ajaje therefore
is in the best position to provide optimal care to treat orthodontic
problems.
Crowding
Crowding is a common orthodontic problem. Crowded teeth can
be unattractive and difficult to clean.
Protruded teeth
Protruded teeth can be unattractive and more prone to damage.
The lower front teeth often over-erupt and damage the palate
behind the top front teeth.
Under
bite
The lower front teeth protrude beyond the upper teeth.
An under bite can be unattractive and can cause uneven wear
of the front teeth.
Deep
bite
The upper front teeth cover the lower teeth.
A deep bite can cause excessive wear of the front teeth and
gum damage behind the upper front teeth
Open
bite
An open bite exists when some teeth don't meet.
It can cause eating problems, speech problems, and excessive
wear of those teeth which do meet. An open bite can also be
unattractive.
Cross
bite
The upper teeth should fit outside the lower teeth like a lid
on a box. If the upper jaw is too narrow, the lower jaw usually
swings to one side to allow the teeth to mesh. A crossbite results.
Missing
teeth
Missing teeth can be very unattractive.
By moving all teeth into correct position, proper space can
be created to facilitate replacement of the missing teeth.
Thumb
sucking
Sucking the thumb (or fingers) can deform nearby teeth and supporting
bone.
Other Problems
An orthodontic opinion might also be sought when there is:
While
orthodontics can benefit nearly anyone at any age with orthodontic
problems, treatment should ideally start in the pre- or early-teens.
Since the difficulty and length of treatment rises with age,
treating dental malocclusions as early as possible can save
time and money.
