Treatment Options and New technology

Options for correction of orthodontic problems:

Correction of orthodontic problems requires 'appliances' to move the teeth and normalise jaw foundations. There are different treatment options and technologies available. The suitability of these depends on individual factors and these will be discussed at your treatment planning appointment.

Braces:
- There is a big difference between brands of braces.
- Dr Elaine Lim Orthodontist Clinics only use the highest quality created with advanced technology.
- 'Discrete' tooth coloured type braces are available for those who want a look that 'blends in' OR braces with 'colours' which can be fun for children or those young at heart!

Non-Braces Options:
- Alternatives to braces:
o Clear Aligners
o Functional Appliances
o Plates
- These can address certain tooth alignment problems.
- Non-braces options can be designed for Children to assist improved dental development and enhance natural eruption of the adult teeth.

Non-Surgery Options:
- Dentofacial Orthopaedics is a concept utilising gentle guiding plates to enhance poorly developed jaws and bites.
- There are various designs, but Dr Elaine Lim uses those which are proven to be effective and comfortable with good patient acceptance.
- Jaw surgery can be avoided if a child's jaw is encouraged to enhance its growth at certain stages of development.
- This means the 'correct' foundation is provided from which the teeth can erupt into the mouth more in an improved position (and possibly avoiding the damage teeth can cause if they are left to erupt past crowded teeth with lack of room).
- This will also lead to exciting facial profile changes which is the consequence of a more balanced and harmonious jaw relationship.
- Normalised jaw shape and position can also support improved airway function.

Expansion Appliances:
- Expanding the jaw to correct narrow foundations provides teeth the opportunity to align into a broader smile
- Expansion appliances also assist to avoid the need for adult tooth extractions.
- Special plates or smooth wires passing between the teeth can be used to enhance narrow smiles.

Mini-Implant Anchorage Devices:
- Mini Implant Anchorage Devices is the latest technology which has now opened an exciting world of treatment options for 'complex patient cases'.
- Examples of complex patient cases include are those who wish to avoid 'jaw surgery' and dental patients requiring orthodontic support to allow provision of their 'cosmetic dentistry' crown/bridges and implants.

Orthognathic Surgery:
- Adult cases with the most severe jaw discrepancies and no growth remaining, means orthognathic surgery in conjunction with orthodontics is required.
- However, even with 'surgery' there are differences in approach to care.
- Dr Elaine Lim plans for the least invasive and most modern proven surgical procedures.

- Acudontics utilises laser acupuncture and acupressure points.
- Demonstrated to ease tension and pressure that may be associated with traditional orthodontic appointments.
- Non-medication, “no needle” method of analgesia.
- Contributes to a more relaxing and comfortable orthodontic experience.
- This therapy is combined with specialist modern approach to tooth and jaw correction, producing excellence in results and idyllic orthodontic experiences.