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Prevention of dental disease is one of the most important aspects
of dental care, stressed Dr. Ninette Banday, Chief of Dentistry,
while introducing Dr. Mubassar Fida, Consultant Orthodontist, at
the monthly 'Signs, Symptoms and Care' a public health awareness
programme held on July 6, 2002 at Aga Khan University Hospital.
Orthodontics, an area of dentistry involving the treatment of facial
and dental irregularities (malocclusion), which can also be related
to preventing dental caries and periodontal disease as teeth that
are out of position are harder to clean and become more susceptible
to decay and gum (periodontal) disease, said Dr. Fida.
"Though treatment with braces (Orthodontics) is carried out during
the growth period, between the ages of 10 and 15 years but maligned
teeth and malocclusion can be treated at any age, in fact one out
of every five orthodontic patient is an adult. The causative factors
in malocclusion seem to be inherited. The skeletal patterns of the
jaws, the form of the oral musculature and the size of the teeth
are all governed largely by genetic factors. Primary prevention
or modification of these features is therefore not possible in most
patients and there is always a need for corrective treatment with
braces," informed Dr. Fida.
Dr. Fida explained further that there are a variety of appliances
(fixed and removable) designed to gently move the teeth and jaws until
they are in a desirable position. The most common appliances, i.e.
braces, are made of metal or plastic, which are attached to the teeth
connected with thin wires.
Commenting on the length of time it takes to properly reposition
the teeth with braces, Dr. Fida said that it depends on the age,
the severity of the malocclusion and the condition of the mouth.
While an average child takes 24 months, adults may take longer.
After the braces are removed, a removable appliance, which is the
retainer, has to be worn for several months to hold the teeth in
the proper position until they are more secure.
Dr.Fida concluded by saying, "at AKUH, we believe that smiles are
designed to last for a lifetime". He also highlighted the importance
of beginning early with prevention oriented treatments.
The speaker and the panellists included Dr. Ninette Banday, Dr.
Munawar Rahman and Dr. Farah Saeed who participated in the question
and answer session at the end of the programme.
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