What is Orthodontics

Orthodontic Retainer from Dublin Orthodontist

Orthodontic Bonded Retainer

Orthodontics (from greek orthos “straight or proper”; and odous “tooth”) is a specialty of dentistry which is concerned with the study and treatment of malocclusions (improper bites), which may be a result of tooth irregularity, disproportionate jaw relationships, or both.

Orthodontic treatment can focus on crowded and crooked teeth only, or can deal with the control and modification of facial growth. The American Association of Orthodontics now recommends that children get an orthodontic assessment at no later than age 7. While orthodontic treatment can be carried out at any age, timely treatment ensures maximum dental health.

With all of the latest advancements in orthodontics, wearing braces has never been easier. State-of-the-art appliances and treatments are now available, from traditional metal braces, to clear and tooth colored brackets, to NASA type wires which are heat activated and require fewer adjustments! Some patients may even be candidates for treatment with Invisalign braces, a revolutionary way to straighten teeth using clear, retainer type aligners that require no braces or wires whatsoever! Please contact us if you’d like to find our more information or to arrange an appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions About Orthodontics

At what age should orthodontic treatment occur?

Orthodontic treatment can be started at any age from 7 years to senior citizens. However,
most patients are usually 10 years and above. Teeth move more quickly in the growing child/
young adult and any functional abnormalities with the jaw have to be treated in the growing
adolescent.

Indicators for Orthodontic treatment to look out for?

  • Protruding upper front teeth. These are commonly known as ‘bucked’ teeth
  • Crowded or teeth which overlap.
  • The upper front teeth are covering lots of the lower teeth – a deep bite
  • The upper front teeth are behind the lower front teeth – a negative bite
  • The centrelines of the teeth do not meet properly
  • There are spaces between the teeth
  • There are missing teeth
  • Teeth which have not come through at the correct age as they are stuck in the jaw (impacted)
  • The patient is still sucking their thumb of finger after the front incisors are through (age 7/8
  • years)
  • The lower jaw shifts to one side when biting – this is called a displacement and may lead to
  • jaw problems later in life
  • A ‘set back’ OR a prominent lower jaw

How does Orthodontic treatment work?

The wires which are placed through the brackets which are the small squares placed on the
teeth. As the wires move they move the teeth with very gentle pressure into a better postion.

Can adults benefit from Orthodontic treatment?

Orthodontic treatment is very successful at any age. We have many patients in the 20s, 30s
40s and 50s. Senior citizens are also in treatment at the practice.

Is it important to see a general dentist whilst I have my braces on?

Yes, it is very important. Your general dentist is an expert at identifying any issues with your
general dental health for example tooth decay, tooth cleaning etc and it is important that you
see your general dentist for a dental check up every 6 months during Orthodontic treatment.

Can I play sports with my brace?

Yes, you can. Special Orthodontic mouthguards are available in the practice which may
protect your teeth and brace.

Do braces hurt?

The actual placement of the braces on the teeth will not hurt at all. Some patients get some
tenderness later in the day of brace placement. This may last for 3-4 days and is normal. You
will be given advise on the day that your brace is placed which will be specific to you.

The brace can rub the cheek a little for the first 1-2 weeks until the cheek gets used to it. We
will provide products which will help with this on the day that you get your brace placement.

We will give you detailed advice on the day that you get your brace.

How to find us

Clinic News

Contact Us

64 Drumcondra Road Upper, Drumcondra, Dublin 9
Phone: 01 8340577
Fax: 01 8340576
Web: http://www.glasnevinorthodontics.ie
Email: glasnevinorthodontics@gmail.com

Opening Hours

7:30AM - 5:30PM
(late evening appointments available)