I was honoured to be invited to speak at the annual European Orthodontic Conference in Nice, France. This is regarded as a prestigious event where orthodontists across Europe attend to learn and share knowledge about the recent updates in the field of orthodontics.
During my orthodontic training, it is a requirement to complete a research project which needs to be completed within the 3 year programme and fulfil the Doctorate in Clinical Dentistry (DClinDent) degree. My research was conducting a ‘Systematic Review in the Stability of Surgically Assisted Rapid Maxillary Expansion.’ I have an interest in surgical orthodontics and when I began my orthodontic education, I had zero knowledge about surgical expansion – that’s what specialist training is all about I guess. It aims to push you to a level you never thought you could achieve.
I always knew orthodontics wasn’t just about straight teeth – it’s so much more than that. I’ve been taught there are 3 outcomes an orthodontist should never compromise on…HEALTH…STABILITY…AESTHETICS!
Surgical orthodontics requires a multi-disciplinary team including orthodontics and surgery. The treatment requires fixed braces to move the teeth ready for surgery. Once the surgery is complete, the main outcome is improve the fit of the teeth and have straight teeth.
Most patients who visit my private clinic will not need surgical orthodontic treatment which is invasive. Typically, such patients are referred into hospital. Such cases are best suited to have fixed braces rather than lingual braces or Invisalign. If you do require some form of surgical intervention, diagnosis is crucial and you may be referred to the local hospital in Wolverhampton.
