The dental industry has come a long way in the 21st Century. One of the awesome advancements the industry has witnessed is that of non-extraction braces.

This is a treatment that avoids removing teeth to fit them into the arch. In the past, there was the belief that fewer teeth required less space, but many orthodontists now believe this to be a fatally-flawed theory as if the teeth cannot fit then it would be difficult for the tongue to fit, too!

If the jaw is unable to house the teeth, then the jaw requires alteration and not the teeth, and there is

where non-extraction orthodontics comes into the fore:

What is the difference between the two? 

When it comes to jaw crowding, there are two remedies:

1. Tooth removal to create jaw space (extraction), and;
2. Expanding the jaw to create more space for the teeth (where one receives braces without extractions). Oral crowding is typically caused by a small jaw size or external influences that have caused the teeth to grow differently. Orthodontists generally opt to remove teeth so that the remaining teeth can continue to grow normally.

However, many see this as a flawed approach as when the jaw is of a smaller size, other oral structures experience a limitation and this can have a negative impact on the individual’s breathing, which can lead to poor sleep cycles.

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Crowded teeth are prone to tooth rot & gum disease 

Non-extraction orthodontics allows individuals to retain their oral characteristics despite the circumstances surrounding the treatment. When the kaws ad teeth can meet their proper arrangement, the risk of oral disorder is greatly reduced.

How do they work? 

This treatment may include the use of a retainer, which is complete removal and can provide wonderful outcomes without their being a harshly-invasive procedure – it is renowned for providing little patient distress.

Extracting teeth means that the jaw stays the same. However, you can possibly achieve a more natural, straighter smile without removing permanent teeth, as the smile will be extended along the facial structure. The use of retainers in this treatment can expand or develop the jaw, producing enough space for the teeth to grow in their natural way.

Why is it a better option? 

Many orthodontists regard this to be a smarter treatment option for many reasons, including:

1. It can produce a more appealing smile: When the jaw is allowed to develop to accommodate the permanent teeth, it can create a more appealing smile, that being a wider smile that is more complimentary to the face;
2. Lesser time with braces: Wearing braces for a longer time period increases the risk of scars and cavities. With this newer method, the appliance does most of the job which, in turn, reduces the amount of time needed to wear braces;
3. They provide fantastic retention: Jawbone expansion or development is typically permanent but elements that cause improper jaw development must be alleviated for optimal results;
4. Your teeth can be salvaged: Typically, you will have four teeth removed for this treatment – but this is not the case with non-extraction orthodontics. The orthodontist will instead produce enough space to accommodate the teeth that might have otherwise been removed.

As you can see, there are many reasons why this more advanced, more contemporary treatment is the better option for individuals looking to keep their teeth and maintain their oral structure – this is why it has become one of the most popular methods in modern orthodontics!