FIXED AND REMOVABLE ORTHODONTICS

Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that deals with identifying and correcting malocclusions and misaligned teeth. At the Metica Medical Centre, orthodontic treatments (fixed, removable and invisible) are carried out exclusively by professionals who are specialised and certified in orthodontics.

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The orthodontic treatments available today, whether fixed or removable, help to restore proper function to the oral cavity, preventing or correcting bad habits and further problems affecting the temporomandibular joint and posture.

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Fixed orthodontic appliances consist of brackets – small metal or ceramic plates that are bonded to the teeth using a special cement, which gradually releases fluoride to strengthen the enamel. Thin metal wires, known as arches, are threaded between the brackets; by exerting physical forces on the teeth, these wires slowly move them until their position is corrected.

Fixed orthodontic appliances may need to be worn by the patient for two or more years, depending on the problem being corrected.

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Removable orthodontic appliances consist of resin plates that attach to the teeth and are gradually tightened by the dentist using special screws. The duration of use may vary depending on the type of treatment.

Unlike fixed appliances, they can be worn by the patient with greater freedom – perhaps only during the day or at night – and can be removed for meals. They may serve one of the following purposes:

• Mechanical: it acts on the muscle to improve occlusion.

• Functional and orthopaedic: by working in sync with the bone structures, it supports their growth.

• Retention: used following treatment with fixed braces to maintain the results achieved, or as a night guard to prevent tooth wear caused by grinding or incorrect chewing.

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Invisible orthodontic appliances represent the new frontier in orthodontics, thanks to their ability to combine aesthetic appeal with functionality, meeting a wide range of needs. 

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Over the years, as a result of a growing focus on aesthetics, there has been a need to develop increasingly discreet and inconspicuous dental appliances. Particularly for adult patients or teenagers in the later stages of adolescence, traditional orthodontic treatment can be a source of embarrassment or discomfort.

Thanks to invisible braces, it is now possible to resolve various problems related to chewing, whilst minimising the aesthetic impact of the devices used.

In this context, new technologies have led to the development of solutions such as clear aligners. These are custom-made dental aligners which, once worn, are not visible to others but improve the smile by repositioning the teeth correctly.

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The benefits are not merely aesthetic, because the main functional defects of the dentition have significant consequences for health: a crossbite, where the upper and lower jaws are not aligned, or crowding – which is a misalignment of the teeth in one jaw – can lead to abfractions, i.e. damage to the tooth neck, as well as premature wear and periodontal disease. These conditions can affect digestion and the cervical region, multiplying the sources of discomfort. Regardless of the type of problem, the best course of action is always to consult your trusted dentist, who will certainly be able to provide a personalised and accurate assessment on a case-by-case basis.