Orthodontics/Functional orthodontics-kumeu,

Orthodontics

Orthodontic Gallery

At HDC we focus on holistic treatment as this is our philosophy of care.

What is Early Interceptive Orthodontics?

Starting from a young age, 5 years old, helps correct tongue and jaw position during the development & assist the correct tongue swallow which is critical in maintaining the harmonious balance between muscles, teeth & external forces.
It decreases bad habits like:
- tongue thrusting
- mouth breathing which leads to gum disease & demineralisation of teeth
- teeth grinding, etc.

What is Functional Orthodontics?

Aside from orthodontics being used to straighten teeth, there are other possible concerns to consider.
Firstly, crowding would mean the teeth have invaded the tongue space.
If the tongue space is invaded it forces the tongue in one direction, and that is Back, causing blockage of the airway.
This can contribute to snoring as well as sleep apnoea, Tempro Mandibular Disorders, Gastric Reflux, Etc.
When patients are younger, expansion appliances (removable or fixed) can be used to help patients with crowding by expanding the arch, making space for the crowded teeth rather than extractions.
Sometimes, however, we are left with no option aside from extractions.
Removable appliances can also be used to help with other areas, like correction of a Cross Bite or Mandibular Tanslation etc.

What are Braces?

Braces are small brackets that are bonded onto the teeth and connected using wires.
They come in Metal & Ceramic (which is more aesthetic).
The Braces that we use are called Self Ligating Brackets which have smooth, gliding gates to hold the wire in place & it doesn't need elastic bands which limit & delay movement of teeth.
Together with Nickel Titanium, Copper Nickle Titanium & Thermal wires they help move the teeth faster while still using the least force.