Treatment times vary but are between 1-3 years depending on the severity of the problem, individual characteristics and the cooperation of the patient. Properly aligned teeth and jaws require less dental intervention, improve physical appearance and confidence. Generally your dentist or child’s dental therapist will refer you to an orthodontist. Problems are generally easier to fix at an earlier age before facial growth is complete. Teeth straightening Braces are commonly used to correct crooked teeth and correct malocclusions. Usually, braces are fixed to the outside of teeth; however lingual braces are fixed to the inside of teeth and cannot be seen. Once braces have been removed a retainer may be used to hold teeth in place. This may be either a removable plate or a wire fitted behind the teeth. Sequential plastic aligners are used to correct mild to moderate malocclusions. They are clear removable plastic moulds that fit over your teeth and gradually move your teeth. As your teeth move your aligner will be replaced with the next aligner in the sequence, until the desired position is achieved. For children who have not yet lost all of their primary teeth, a removable appliance may be used. This is a plate held in place with wire clasps that fit over the teeth and wire springs attached to the plate move the teeth. Jaw modification For more severe malocclusions or disproportionately positioned jaws functional appliances or head gear may be required.

Crooked teeth can result from a combination of factors such as genetics and early loss of primary teeth. People with crooked teeth tend to feel self conscious about their smile and this may negatively impact their daily social interactions. Crooked teeth can also be difficult to clean and may be more prone to decay and gum disease. These problems can be corrected via orthodontic treatment. Malocclusions (bad bites) are predominantly inherited but some are acquired. Inherited problems include crowding of teeth, too much space between teeth, missing or extra teeth and other irregularities of the face. Acquired malocclusions may be caused by injuries, thumb or dummy sucking, dental diseases or early loss of teeth. Malocclusions not only affect the alignment of teeth but also facial development. For more information please view the New Zealand Association of Orthodontists website.