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Dinh X. Bui, D.D.S., M.S. |
Definition
of Orthodontics
Orthodontics is an art and science of dentistry which concerns
with the supervision, guidance, and correction of the growing
and mature dentofacial structures. It is our duties to diagnose
and recognize the possible malformation or malocclusion which
required early intervention to facilitate the correction process.
The end point of orthodontic therapy is the achievement of physiologic
and esthetic harmony among facial, dental, and cranial structures;
the correct ideal inter and intra-arch relationship in an individual
dentition; and finally ease of maintaining the stability of
the occlusion. |
What is involved in the
orthodontic treatment?
Orthodontic treatment can be divided into three stages.
They are:
- Diagnostic phase
- Corrective phase
- Retention phase
In diagnostic phase, a comprehensive examination must
be obtained concerning health history, periodontal health,
occlusion, the health of the temporomandibular joint and
the muscles of mastitcation, and finally, oral habits must
be identified. The orthodontic record usually consists of
panoramic x-ray, cephalometric x-ray, 5 -view photographic
records, and orthodontic model. Cephalometric tracing and
analysis will then carried out, combining of clinical examination
and model analysis, our treatment modalities can be established.
Corrective phase can be broken down to 8 substages.
They are:
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Arch expansion
- Intra-arch leveling
- Canine management
- Establish arch form
- Establish inter-arch relationship (Overbite and Overjet
Management)
- Establish the root position - torquing of roots
- Detailing
- Occlusal Finishing
These are the protocol of which Dr. Bui follows in his
orthodontic therapy. It is not necessary the same or equivalent
with other operator. Our method may be different, but the
final result should be toward achieving our common goals as
outline previously.
Retention phase is the final phase which involved fabrication
of retainers, selective occlusal adjustment, and periodic
exam and followup. On certain case where complex tooth movement
were obtained, fibrotomy may be performed to minimize relapse. |
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How long usually is the orthodontic
treatment?
Upon moving teeth, our bone continued to remodel and achieve
statbility up to six months after movement. We do not believe
in the concept of "speed brace" nor "straight
teeth without brace" due to the fact that there is more
to orthodontics then just straightening of the teeth. It is
very common that we have to expand the arch width, increase
the vertical dimension through erupting posterior teeth as
in the case of treating TMJ dysfunction, and controlling and/or
guiding the growth of the dentofacial structures. At the end
of the orthodontic treatment, we expect to achieve harmony
in both function and esthetics concerning our dentofacial
structures, to eliminate the malocclusion and achieve the
long term stability of the occlusion, and to provide retention
and avoiding relapse. Our treatment usually takes two years
from start to finish. However, with special circumstance such
as arch expansion, exposing and elevating impact teeth, placement
of implant for anchorage, etc. will further delay the treatment
time. At Cosmetic Dentist of Katy, we believe that it is not
how we star but how we finish, and we must finish well.
We offer payment plan with a low
monthly payment and if paid in full in the time specified,
you will not have to pay any interest. For any question,
please do not hesitate to call our office at 281-579-6066.
About Us |
On the right hand column is an example of a
case using orthodontic therapy to treat an adult with generalized
moderate periodontitis. Patient was told at the other office
to have periodontal surgery in the maxillary anterior region,
followed by crowning all her front 8 teeth to treat her overjet.
After a thorough examination, Dr. Bui decided to preserve
all her natural teeth and treat her mouthbreathing problem
by intruding the front teeth using orthodontic therapy. The
final smile was detailed with esthetic enamelplasty and a
small composite bonding on left central maxillary tooth. No
periodontal surgery is necessary. Patient elected to keep
her natural teeth instead of pursuing the veneer treatment
to close the embrasure space. Nevertheless, her periodontitis
and halitosis are now controlled since she is no longer a
mouthbreather due to her excessive overjet. Patient is very
happy with the result. Her maintenance includes cleaning every
six month, selective occlusal adjustment if necessary and
retainer adjustment (if necessary). There is nothing more
satisfying than be able to function and smile with your own
natural teeth.
For full presentation of this case
done in Flash, please browse our porfolio section, under "Orthodontic
treatment in the periodontal involved teeth." |
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