Orthodontics, a dental treatment that deals with correcting defects and irregularities in the position of the teeth to restore the morphological and functional balance of the patient’s mouth and face, is no longer a matter for children.
Although this type of treatment is especially recommended for children between the ages of 10 and 15, more and more adults are getting their teeth aligned.
Fixed (using brackets and wires) or removable, orthodontics is increasingly focusing on esthetics( esthetic ceramic, fiberglass or acrylicbrackets; clear acrylic splints, or lingual orthodontics).
Orthodontics, especially traditional braces, is generally a long treatment, which can be uncomfortable and sometimes tedious. Therefore, maintaining a positive attitude and getting involved in the treatment, obtaining the commitment of the patient and his or her relatives in the case of minors, will be key to guarantee the success of the treatment.
Even if the orthodontist does his job with excellence, if the patient does not commit himself to maintaining good oral hygiene measures, to wearing the splints for the necessary time (in the case of removable splints), to punctually attend appointments with the various professionals (orthodontist, dentist and hygienist) and to follow all the advice given, orthodontic treatments may not achieve the objectives set.
Motivation, information and training are fundamental aspects that help to generate patient commitment and lead to therapeutic success.
The age, gender and personality of orthodontic patients should always be taken into account to optimize treatment. The professional’s ability to understand the type of patient and his or her level of demand will be key to personalizing the treatment to the client’s interests and achieving results as close as possible to the therapeutic objectives of all parties.
