Orthodontics, also known as orthognathodontics, is a dental specialty focused on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental malocclusions and skeletal abnormalities of the face. Malocclusions are misalignments between the upper and lower teeth that can affect not only the aesthetics of the smile but also the functionality of chewing, speech, and even breathing.
Aesthetics and health
Orthodontics is not limited to the aesthetic improvement of the smile, but plays a fundamental role in the overall oral health of the patient. Through an integrated approach that combines orthopedic, dental, and, if necessary, surgical treatments, the orthodontist can resolve malocclusions, prevent sleep disorders, and enhance the quality of life of patients.
Orthodontics for children and adults
The specialization in orthodontics is applied to the treatment of both children in their growth phase and adults.
In children, orthodontics intervenes during development to properly guide the growth of bone structures and ensure optimal teeth alignment.
However, adults can also benefit from orthodontic treatments, and thanks to new technologies, these treatments can now be approached with greater aesthetic satisfaction. In particular, the use of clear aligner systems allows adults to correct malocclusions discreetly and effectively, improving the smile’s aesthetics without compromising social or professional life.
Orthopedic phase and dental phase
Orthodontic treatment during developmental age generally consists of two main phases: the orthopedic phase and the dental phase.
• Orthopedic phase
This phase aims to correct and influence the growth of the jaw and mandibular bone structures. The goal is to prepare the foundation so that the teeth can erupt in the correct position. Orthopedic devices used in this phase, such as palatal expanders or functional appliances, are designed to stimulate bone growth and correct skeletal defects, particularly during the child or adolescent’s growth phase, when the bone structure is more malleable.
• Dental phase
After addressing the bone structures, attention shifts to aligning the teeth properly. Orthodontic appliances, such as traditional brackets or modern clear aligners, are used to move the teeth into their ideal position, ensuring efficient chewing, a harmonious appearance, and proper stomatognathic function.
Multiphase treatments
In some cases, orthodontic treatment may be divided into multiple phases. After an initial orthopedic intervention to prepare the bone structures, the process waits for the complete eruption of the permanent teeth before proceeding with a second orthodontic phase. This approach allows for optimal results while reducing treatment time to only the necessary periods.
Orthodontic treatments: traditional approaches and digital support technologies
Orthodontic treatments primarily rely on traditional devices such as brackets, which consist of metal or ceramic attachments fixed to the teeth, connected by wires to correct malocclusions. While there are no true “digital orthodontic treatments,” digital technologies play a crucial supporting role in treatment planning and monitoring, such as 3D scans and digital device design.
Thanks to technological advancements, it is now possible to use digital tools to design orthodontic treatments with removable devices, such as clear aligners. These devices are designed using technologies like 3D scans and orthodontic planning software. The scans create a digital model of the patient’s mouth, from which a precise treatment plan is developed. Subsequently, a series of clear aligners are made that gradually guide the teeth to the desired position. Clear aligners provide a discreet and comfortable alternative to traditional brackets. Being removable, they facilitate oral hygiene and offer greater freedom in daily life without compromising the effectiveness of orthodontic treatment for correcting malocclusions. Although these devices benefit from digital support in the design phase, they are classified as medical devices.
The orthodontist and sleep disorders
The orthodontist also plays a key role in treating problems related to snoring and sleep apnea. These sleep disorders can be caused by structural abnormalities that compromise the proper airflow during sleep.
It is important to have children checked by an orthodontist if they snore during sleep, especially in the absence of a cold or other temporary conditions. Persistent snoring could indicate night time respiratory issues linked to malocclusions or structural abnormalities of the jaw. Poor breathing during the night can tire a child, compromising their vitality and alertness during the day. This can negatively affect their concentration, learning abilities, and school performance.
For adults, an orthodontic visit is equally crucial to monitor and prevent sleep apnea, a sleep disorder characterized by temporary interruptions in breathing. Sleep apnea not only affects sleep quality but can also have serious consequences for general health, increasing the risk of hypertension, heart problems, stroke, and other major medical conditions. The orthodontist, through specific devices, can help improve nighttime breathing and prevent these serious complications, ensuring better health and a higher quality of life.
Orthognathic surgery
In particularly complex situations where there are significant bone defects or abnormalities in the face, orthodontic treatment can be combined with orthognathic surgery. This collaboration between the orthodontist and maxillofacial surgeon is essential for correcting major skeletal malformations, improving not only facial aesthetics but also chewing and respiratory function.