Orthodontic treatment uses braces, aligners, and other specialised devices to gently guide your teeth into a healthier alignment. This specialised branch of dentistry aims to improve the arrangement and function of your teeth and jaws, leading to a healthier and confident smile.
At Peak Orthodontics, we believe in delivering personalised and professional care. We focus on offering a range of orthodontic solutions, from braces to aligners, so you can enjoy lasting oral health and an appearance you feel good about.
Below is a detailed look at the orthodontic treatment process, its benefits, and the techniques used by modern orthodontic practices.
Why Does Orthodontics Matter for Your Oral Health?
Orthodontic treatment does more than straighten your teeth. It helps address concerns linked to tooth alignment, jaw structure, and how your bite functions. Having teeth that are crowded, spaced, or protruding can make brushing and flossing difficult, which may raise the chance of gum problems or tooth decay. A bad bite can also put stress on your teeth, leading to possible tooth wear or gum problems. By improving your tooth and jaw alignment, you can reduce such risks and enjoy better overall oral health.
Key Reasons for Orthodontic Treatment
- Crooked or crowded teeth: Overlapping teeth can be harder to clean. Straightening them helps with thorough brushing and flossing.
- Bite issues: An overbite, underbite, or crossbite can affect your ability to chew and function. Correcting your bite can improve everyday comfort.
- Spacing: Large gaps between teeth can be unaesthetic. Orthodontic treatment can close or reduce these gaps.
- Confidence: An aligned smile often boosts self-esteem, making it easier to smile, speak, and laugh comfortably.
Common Orthodontic Methods and Appliances
Modern orthodontic treatment offers several approaches for different needs. At Peak Orthodontics, we use a range of appliances, combining the latest digital technology with expert hands-on care. Below are some common methods you might encounter during treatment.
1. Fixed Braces
Fixed braces involve brackets that are bonded to your teeth, connected by a thin wire. This wire applies gentle force, moving your teeth over time into the planned positions. Braces come in different materials, including metal and ceramic (tooth-coloured) options that blend in more discreetly. They are a reliable way to address moderate to severe crowding, bite issues, and complex alignment problems.
Caring for Fixed Braces
- Regular cleaning: Clean gently after each meal to remove trapped food.
- Avoid hard or sticky foods: Chewing gum, toffee, and other sticky snacks can damage your braces.
- Professional check-ups: Regular orthodontic appointments help monitor progress and provide wire adjustments as needed.
2. Clear Aligners
Clear aligners, such as Invisalign, are custom-moulded plastic trays that fit over your teeth. They apply controlled pressure to gradually move your teeth and can be taken out when eating, drinking, or brushing. Aligners are almost invisible, making them a popular option for adults and teens who are concerned about noticeable braces.
Benefits of Clear Aligners
- Removable: This makes it easier to maintain normal eating and oral care routines.
- Cosmetic appeal: The clear plastic design is nearly invisible, so many prefer aligners for a more discreet treatment path.
- Minimal irritation: Some find aligners more comfortable than braces because there are no brackets or wires.
3. Functional Appliances
Functional appliances are typically used to guide jaw growth in children or teenagers who are still developing. These devices, often made of plastic, fit in the mouth and help align the upper and lower jaws, improving the bite and reducing the likelihood of more intensive treatment later on.
4. Retainers
Retainers maintain tooth positions after active orthodontic treatment ends. Once your braces come off or you finish aligner wear, you will receive removable and/or fixed retainers. Consistent retainer use is important to lock in your new smile and prevent unwanted tooth movement over time.
Who Can Benefit from Orthodontic Treatment?
Many people associate orthodontic treatments with teenagers, but treatment can be beneficial at various life stages. Children, teens, and adults alike can achieve straighter teeth and better jaw alignment.
Orthodontics for Children
Early checks around the age of 7-8 years old can help an orthodontist decide if a child might benefit from interceptive care. For instance, devices such as plate expanders can guide jaw growth, provide space for incoming adult teeth, or correct minor issues like protruding front teeth before they become more difficult to treat.
Orthodontics for Teens
Teenagers often undergo comprehensive treatment. When most of the adult teeth have come in, a specialist can recommend braces, aligners, or a combination of treatments. Teen treatment can help correct a bad bite, crowding, spacing, or jaw issues, paving the way for a confident smile.
Orthodontics for Adults
It is never too late to consider braces or aligners. Adult orthodontics are increasingly common, especially for those who missed out on treatment when younger or have experienced tooth movement over time. Clear aligners and ceramic braces are popular choices for adults who value a discreet solution. While tooth movement can happen at any age, it may take slightly longer in adulthood, and the oral health benefits remain significant.
What to Expect During Orthodontic Treatment
Initial Consultation
Your treatment journey typically begins with an assessment. During your initial appointment at Peak Orthodontics, we take the time to discuss your goals and concerns. We also take scans, X-rays, and clinical photographs, which form the basis of your treatment plan.
Treatment Planning
Once we evaluate your case, we present you with suitable orthodontic options. These options could include braces, clear aligners, or a combination of approaches. The plan will detail the estimated timeline, cost, and expected results.
Fitting Your Appliance
If braces are recommended, we bond the brackets to your teeth and link them with a thin wire. For clear aligners, we provide the first set of custom trays. During this step, we discuss how to care for your braces or aligners, and provide tips on proper cleaning, diet, and what to expect.
Progress Check-ups
Regular visits help track your progress and allow for adjustments. If you use braces, the orthodontist might replace or tighten wires. If you use aligners, you will receive new trays to continue moving your teeth. Our Orthodontists use advanced monitoring, which can reduce the number of in-person visits and help ensure everything remains on course.
Retention Phase
After your teeth have shifted into their final positions, braces are removed or you complete your series of aligners. We then provide you with a retainer to wear as directed. This step is crucial, as teeth can shift back if retainers are not used. Retainers allow the bone and surrounding tissues to stabilise around the new tooth positions, protecting your new smile.
Potential Risks and How to Manage Them
While orthodontic treatment is safe, there can be minor risks. Below are common concerns and ways to manage them:
- Tooth decay or gum irritation: Brackets, wires, or aligners can trap food, leading to plaque build-up. Prevention is key. Brush thoroughly after meals and floss carefully.
- Mouth sores or discomfort: Braces may rub against lips or cheeks, leading to minor sores. Dental wax or silicone can cushion the braces. Aligners are often smoother, but you might still feel mild tenderness when switching to a new set.
- Relapse: Teeth can move if you do not wear your retainer. Following the retainer instructions helps protect your results.
- Extended treatment time: Failing to follow instructions such as wearing elastics or aligners for the recommended hours can increase overall treatment time.
Maintaining Oral Hygiene During Treatment
No matter which appliance you choose, keeping your teeth clean is vital to prevent issues like decay or gum inflammation. Below are some key practices:
- Brush thoroughly: Use a medium size toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. For fixed braces, angle the brush to clean under the wire and around the brackets.
- Floss or use interdental brushes: Interdental brushes can help you navigate around brackets and wires. If you use aligners, remove them to floss with ease.
- Watch your diet: Limit sugary drinks and sticky snacks. Hard items such as popcorn kernels or ice can damage wires and brackets.
- Attend check-ups: Regular professional cleanings, along with your scheduled orthodontic appointments, ensure both your braces and your teeth remain healthy.
How Peak Orthodontics Supports Your Treatment Journey
At Peak Orthodontics, we use advanced technology and hands-on expertise to create efficient, personalised treatment plans:
- Free Consultation: Our initial consultations help you learn your options and see if braces or aligners are the right fit.
- Flexible Financing: We offer interest-free payment plans, making your orthodontic care more budget-friendly.
- Retainer Club: Once your active treatment is complete, you benefit from our 5-year Retainer Club membership. This includes updates on replacement retainers if needed, plus discounted rates for any minor corrections.
- Dental Monitoring: Our smart app lets you check in from wherever you are by sending images of your teeth for review, helping you save time on in-person visits.
Ready to Begin Your Orthodontic Adventure?
Orthodontic treatment can transform your smile in ways that go beyond aesthetics. It can reduce your risk of gum conditions, improve your bite, and enhance everyday comfort. Children, teens, and adults can all benefit from having teeth that are correctly aligned and a bite that functions properly.
If you are based in Christchurch and want to know more, Peak Orthodontics invites you to book a consultation. We will assess your needs, walk you through possible treatments, and provide ongoing support. With the right approach, orthodontics can deliver lifelong benefits, so you can keep smiling with confidence.