Orthodontics
Brisbane

What Is Orthodontics?

Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that involves the correction of improperly positioned teeth. It is also used to control the shape and development of the jaw as well as manage aspects of facial growth (dentofacial orthopaedics). The main purpose of an orthodontic treatment is to bring teeth, jaws and lips into proper alignment, thereby improving the appearance, health and functionality of the patient’s teeth.

Contrary to popular misconception, the teeth straightening procedure is not only suitable for children but caters to people of all ages. You may choose from the wide range of orthodontic treatment options and appliances that Swish Dental provides.

Depending on your specific condition, the appliance of choice may include one of the following:

• Metal braces (wires and brackets);
• Metal-free braces;
• Clear braces;
• Space maintainers;
• Removable retainers;
• Splints;
• Palatal expanders, etc.

Whatever your preference, our end goal is to help you achieve a straight, functional and beautiful smile that makes way for healthy tooth development.

What Type of Patients Needs Orthodontics?

Are your teeth sticking too far forward? Are there are gaps in your smile? There are many misalignment issues that call for the application of orthodontics. You may be a candidate for orthodontic treatment if you have one or more of the following problems:

Crowding: This occurs when there isn’t enough room on your upper or lower jaw to accommodate all the teeth.

Protruding front teeth: Teeth that protrude forward not only affects the facial appearance but are also more prone to injury from sports or sudden impact.

Crossbite: This occurs when a tooth (or teeth) has rotated in its position such that it is either closer to the cheek or to the tongue in relation to the corresponding tooth in the opposing jaw.

Spacing: The opposite of crowding where the teeth do not fill up the space on the jaw resulting in gaps and spaces between teeth.

Underbite: This occurs when the lower teeth or jaw protrudes forward and overlaps the upper teeth and jaw.

Overbite: The opposite of an Underbite where the upper teeth or jaw protrudes forward and overlaps the lower teeth and jaw.

Straightens teeth

From both an aesthetic and functional standpoint, it is important to have the upper and lower teeth meet in a biting position – also known as an occlusion – for an ideal alignment. A malocclusion, or bad bite, occurs when there is a variation from the normal position of teeth.

Using modern dental devices and advanced techniques, our orthodontic treatments are designed to slowly and gently move your misaligned teeth to their proper positions. When your teeth are back in the right order, it can significantly improve your bite and appearance of your smile.

Of course, having straightened teeth can also improve the shape and appearance of your face – not to mention, enhance your facial balance and profile.

Impacts speaking abilities

A severe malocclusion can hamper your speaking abilities. An overbite is the primary cause of a lisp. Gaps in your teeth can generate a whistling sound when you speak. Misaligned teeth can also affect the tongue-to-teeth contact that results in stuttering or slurred speech.

Using braces or aligners, our orthodontist can help to align your teeth and prevent any orthodontic-related speech difficulties from affecting your personal or professional relationships.

Improve chewing and biting

Without a properly functioning bite, you may find it uncomfortable or difficult to chew food into tiny morsels as required for smooth and effective digestion. For severe cases of malocclusion or misaligned jaw, patients may even be missing out on nutritional foods due to chewing or biting deficiencies.

Thankfully, a bite correction can significantly alter the way you chew and bite with increased comfort and efficiency. With your teeth and jaws in proper alignment, you don’t have to avoid certain types of foods and compromise your health.