Fixed/Removable Orthodontic Treatment

The orthodontist decides to use either fixed or removable appliances based on an individual patient’s treatment needs and self-compliance. Removable orthodontic appliances are effective only if they are worn for several hours a day according to orthodontist’s directions. If the orthodontist is hesitant about the patient’s compliance, fixed type orthodontic appliances may be preferred if possible.

Indication for orthodontic treatment

There are some dental orthodontic indications, including:

• Difficulty chewing or biting.
• Mouth breathing.
• Sucking the thumb or fingers, or other oral habits.
• Crowded, misplaced or blocked-out teeth.
• Missing teeth.
• Jaws that shift, make sounds, protrude or are recessed.
• Biting the cheek or biting into the roof of the mouth.
• Protruding teeth.
• Teeth that meet in an abnormal way or don’t meet at all (open bite and deep bite)
• Facial imbalance or asymmetry (features out of proportion to the rest of the face).
• Grinding or clenching of teeth.
• Inability to comfortably close lips.
• Impacted teeth

Care after orthodontic treatment

Having orthodontic brackets/appliances in place can make it harder to keep your teeth clean. Extra effort is needed at this time to prevent any long-term damage to your teeth. Cleaning between the teeth and the use of a mouthwash is particularly important.