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Generally, orthodontic treatments typically last between 9 months for minor corrections and up to 3 years for more severe cases. After the initial assessment, the patient is informed about the type of malocclusion they have, how the treatment will be carried out, and its estimated duration.
Yes, orthodontics varies depending on the patient's age. At younger ages, the goal is to correct skeletal problems and prevent potential future complications. Once growth is complete, the objectives are solely dental, and the bones cannot be modified without complementary maxillofacial surgery.
No, thanks to advanced techniques available today, it's possible to get orthodontics at any age.
Generally speaking, orthodontic treatment is needed by anyone with bite problems that can affect chewing function. Additionally, there are aesthetic concerns that may make orthodontic treatment advisable. The orthodontist must evaluate each case to assess the functional and/or aesthetic impact.
Orthognathic surgery is necessary for malocclusions where the skeletal involvement is so severe that it cannot be resolved with orthodontics alone. Additionally, medical problems such as sleep apnea can also be resolved through orthognathic surgery.
These procedures are generally performed intraorally, thus avoiding external scars. Rigid fixation methods are used, which prevent the intermaxillary fixation that was common years ago. The average hospital stay is approximately 2-3 days.
Pediatricians used to recommend the first visit when all primary teeth had erupted (around 3 years old). The high prevalence of childhood cavities led to these timelines being shortened, and now it's recommended to have a visit when the first tooth erupts (around 6 months). This way, parents and children can be educated from an early age, preventing many future problems.
The recommended toothpaste will depend on each patient. Generally, we recommend fluoride toothpastes. The recommended amount of fluoride will vary by age:· Up to 2 years: low fluoride due to ingestion risk (less than 500 ppm).· 2 to 6 years: medium fluoride (1000 ppm fluoride).· From 7 years onwards: normal fluoride, from 1450 ppm fluoride. Adult toothpastes.
Today, there are various whitening materials and techniques that, when selected and used correctly, provide effective and safe results. Although over-the-counter products advertised as whiteners exist, they are generally not a safe or effective option.
Before undergoing any teeth whitening treatment, you should consult a professional to ensure that all your teeth are healthy.
Dental veneer treatment is much more conservative (i.e., gentle on our teeth) than placing crowns. Dental veneers are thin layers of ceramic/porcelain or resin, and to place them, it's sufficient to apply a slight roughening of the tooth's front enamel, which facilitates the veneer's adhesion.
The origin of periodontal disease is multifactorial. Some factors that can contribute to its development include genetics, smoking, diabetes, insufficient hygiene, and certain systemic diseases.
The first phase of treatment is commonly known as scaling and root planing, which involves removing calculus and bacteria present on the tooth and below the gums. Subsequently, a check-up is performed to evaluate the response to treatment. Oral hygiene education and antibiotic therapy can also help reduce the level of pathogenic bacteria found in the mouth, which activate a pathological inflammatory process that destroys the patient's own bone.
The most common forms appear in adults, starting around the age of 30. However, the younger the patient, the higher the probability of developing a severe form of periodontitis that requires more care.
Various factors can contribute to the development of gingivitis. Some of these factors include poor hygiene, hormonal changes during pregnancy, uncontrolled diabetes, abnormal tooth shapes, or invasive dental restorations.
The first phase of treatment is commonly known as scaling. This involves removing calculus and bacteria present on the upper and lower parts of the tooth and below the gums. Subsequently, a check-up is performed to evaluate the response to treatment and ensure the absence of periodontitis.
Dental caries is the destruction of tooth tissues caused by the presence of acids produced by plaque bacteria deposited on the tooth surfaces.
It is the term used to describe teeth grinding, either during the day or while sleeping. It occurs when the upper teeth are pressed firmly against the lower teeth and also moved back and forth, usually unconsciously.
The probable causes are found in the brain and are associated with emotional stress processed during sleep. Brief stressful situations in the family or work environment can manifest as bruxism. Additionally, there are anatomical factors in the patient that can also predispose them to developing this condition.
Bruxism and TMJ dysfunctions can generally be treated with occlusal splints and complementary physiotherapy. A comprehensive study of each situation must be carried out to decide on the appropriate treatment plan.
