Orthodontics Quiz: Malocclusion, Braces, and Orthodontic Appliances

Malocclusion

• Definition: A misalignment of the upper and lower teeth, affecting the way they fit together
• Types:
  • Class I: Neutral occlusion, but with crowding or spacing issues
  • Class II: Upper teeth and jaw protrude over the lower teeth and jaw
  • Class III: Lower teeth and jaw protrude over the upper teeth and jaw
  • Crossbite: Upper teeth fit behind the lower teeth, instead of over them
• Causes:
  • Genetics
  • Thumb-sucking or pacifier use
  • Premature loss of baby teeth
  • Trauma or injury
• Effects:
  • Difficulty chewing or speaking
  • Increased risk of tooth wear and tooth loss
  • Impaired oral hygiene
  • Decreased self-confidence

Braces

• Definition: Orthodontic appliances used to straighten and align teeth
• Types:
  • Traditional metal braces: Stainless steel or titanium brackets and wires
  • Ceramic braces: Clear or tooth-colored brackets and wires
  • Lingual braces: Brackets and wires attached to the back of teeth
  • Invisalign: Clear, removable aligners
• Components:
  • Brackets: Attached to individual teeth
  • Archwires: Connect brackets and apply pressure to move teeth
  • Ligatures: Small rubber bands or wires that hold archwires in place
  • Elastic bands: Used to connect upper and lower teeth

Orthodontic Appliances

• Definition: Devices used to move teeth, modify growth, or maintain space
• Types:
  • Fixed appliances: Braces, bands, and wires
  • Removable appliances: Retainers, aligners, and space maintainers
  • Functional appliances: Modify growth and development, such as palatal expanders
• Examples:
  • Headgear: Used to correct Class II or Class III malocclusion
  • Retainers: Worn after treatment to maintain tooth alignment
  • Space maintainers: Used to preserve space for permanent teeth

Root Movement

• Definition: The process of moving teeth roots through the bone
• Types:
  • Tipping: Rotation of the root around a fixed point
  • Bodily movement: Linear movement of the entire tooth
  • Root torque: Rotation of the root around its long axis
• Factors affecting root movement:
  • Age: Easier in younger patients, more challenging in adults
  • Bone density: Softer bone allows for easier movement
  • Treatment duration: Faster movement may lead to more relapse
  • Force application: Light, continuous forces are more effective than heavy, intermittent forces