When the permanent teeth start to erupt, there may not be sufficient space to accommodate all these new teeth. Frequently this can result in crowded or crooked teeth. Apart from spoiling your smile, crowded teeth are also more prone to dental problems. These include decays and gum (periodontal) disease.

With the advancement of dental technology, it is now possible to straighten teeth with the minimum of discomfort and time.

As with most dental conditions, early detection and treatment can be key to successful treatment. As your child starts to lose baby teeth and have permanent (adult) teeth, you could take him/her along for an assessment. Removable plastic plates can sometimes be used to create space and allow the teeth to straighten out, thereby reducing the chances of extractions.

During the teenage years and beyond, fixed braces can be used to straighten any crooked teeth and align the bite correctly. Adults can also straighten their teeth with fixed braces but it will take longer to correct the problems. The use of transparent brackets help to improve aesthetics during treatment.

To hide the fact that you are undergoing orthodontic treatment, lingual braces have been developed. These are braces placed on the back of the teeth shielding them from view and are a great alternative in adult braces treatment.