Orthodontics
& Braces

What Is Orthodontic Treatment?

Orthodontics is the area of dentistry that moves teeth into better positions and corrects how the upper and lower jaws meet. The most familiar tool is a set of fixed braces for teeth, made up of small brackets bonded to each tooth and linked by a wire, which is adjusted over time to guide the teeth into place.

Why Do People Choose Braces?

Crowded teeth are harder to clean, which makes decay and bleeding or receding gums more likely over time. A bite that does not meet properly can also lead to uneven wear or jaw discomfort. Common reasons people ask about braces in Windhoek include:

• Crowded or overlapping teeth
• Gaps between the teeth
• An overbite or underbite
• Teeth that have moved after earlier treatment

Am I Too Old For Braces?

No. Teeth can be moved at any age, provided the gums and supporting bone are healthy. Many adults choose braces for teeth that have shifted over the years, often after wisdom teeth came through.

What Happens During Treatment?

Treatment begins with an assessment that includes X-rays and records of your teeth. From these, Dr Moloi plans how each tooth needs to move and gives you an estimated treatment time, often between 12 and 24 months. Once the braces are fitted, you will come back roughly every four to eight weeks for adjustments, so having your orthodontics in Windhoek makes those visits easier to fit in. If a tooth needs to come out to create space, this is done as a minor surgical procedure before the braces go on.

How Do You Look After Your Teeth With Braces?

Brackets trap food easily, so brushing after meals and cleaning around the wire become part of your routine. After the braces come off, you will be given a retainer to hold your teeth in their new position, because teeth naturally tend to drift back.