Kathmandu, Nepal – Orthodontics is a specialized field within dentistry that focuses on the diagnosis, prevention, and correction of misaligned teeth and jaw structures. In addition to addressing crooked teeth, orthodontics also treats facial and jawbone abnormalities, including congenital conditions such as cleft lip and palate.
Dr. Sanjay Prasad Gupta, an orthodontic consultant at Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital and Dental Villa, is recognized as a leading specialist in the field. He has been providing services within Nepal for over a decade and holds an MDS in Orthodontics as part of the first postgraduate batch. He has received additional training from Hiroshima University in Japan, institutions in India, and the Tweed Foundation in the United States.
According to Dr. Gupta, orthodontic treatment begins only after a detailed clinical evaluation to determine necessity. A comprehensive treatment plan is then prepared, which may involve deciding whether teeth need to be extracted. Treatment is categorized into two types: removable appliances and fixed braces. Dr. Gupta emphasizes that only trained orthodontic specialists should perform these procedures.
For children aged 8 to 11, if there is a jaw growth issue, appliances can guide growth through a process known as growth modulation. For older individuals whose growth phase has passed, treatment options include orthodontic camouflage or, in more complex cases, orthognathic surgery. Dr. Gupta recommends that children be evaluated by an orthodontic specialist by age 7 for early intervention.
Interview Highlights with Dr. Gupta on Oral Health:
How should people care for their teeth?
Proper oral hygiene and diet are essential. Dr. Gupta advises reducing sugary foods, increasing fiber, fruits, and vegetables, brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, rinsing after meals, and visiting a dentist every six months. In some cases, professional cleaning (scaling) may be required. Avoiding alcohol, tobacco, and smokeless products also helps maintain oral health.
What is the difference between dental filling and Root Canal Treatment (RCT)?
If decay affects only the enamel and dentin, a simple filling suffices. However, if it reaches the tooth’s nerve, causing pain, then an RCT is necessary. In RCT, the infected nerve is removed and the tooth is filled from the root.
Why is scaling necessary?
Despite regular brushing, some areas remain unclean, allowing plaque and bacteria to accumulate. This can lead to bleeding gums, infection, or bone loss around the teeth. Scaling removes such buildup. Contrary to common myths, scaling does not damage teeth; in fact, it can help stabilize loose teeth.
Are there side effects to routine cleaning or teeth whitening?
Regular cleaning has no negative effects. However, chemical teeth whitening should be done in moderation as it may cause sensitivity due to the agents used.
Why do gums bleed?
The primary cause of bleeding gums is poor oral hygiene. Routine professional cleanings help prevent this issue.
What precautions should be taken after tooth extraction?
After extraction—either through a non-surgical or surgical procedure—patients should keep the dressing in place for at least 30 minutes. They should avoid hot food for 24 hours and rinse with warm water after the next 24 hours.
Can teeth shift again after braces?
Braces align the teeth, but since the surrounding tissues and bone are not yet stable, retainers must be worn for 1.5 to 2 years to hold teeth in place. This prevents relapse and helps maintain the corrected alignment.