What is orthodontics?
Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that specializes in the diagnosis,
prevention, and treatment of dental and facial irregularities.
What is an orthodontist?
An orthodontist is a specialist who has completed an advanced education program
following dental school to learn the special skills required to manage tooth
movement and guide facial development.
What are some possible benefits of orthodontics?
- A more attractive smile
- Reduced appearance-consciousness during critical development years
- Better function of the teeth
- Possible increase in self-confidence
- Increased ability to clean the teeth
- Improved force distribution and wear patterns of the teeth
- Better long term health of teeth and gums
- Guide permanent teeth into more favorable positions
- Reduce the risk of injury to protruded front teeth
- Aids in optimizing other dental treatment
What are some signs that braces may be needed?
- Upper front teeth protrude excessively over the lower teeth, or are
bucked
- Upper front teeth cover the majority of the lower teeth when biting
together (deep bite)
- Upper front teeth are behind or inside the lower front teeth
(underbite)
- The upper and lower front teeth do not touch when biting together (open
bite)
- Crowded or overlapped teeth
- The center of the upper and lower teeth do not line up
- Finger or thumb sucking habits which continue after six or seven years
old
- Difficulty chewing
- Teeth wearing unevenly or excessively
- The lower jaw shifts to one side or the other when biting together
- Spaces between the teeth
At what age should orthodontic treatment occur?
Orthodontic treatment can be started at any age. Many orthodontic problems are
easier to correct if detected at an early age before jaw growth has slowed.
Early treatment may mean that a patient can avoid surgery and more serious
complications. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every
child first visit an orthodontist by age 7 or earlier if a problem is detected
by parents, the family dentist, or the child's physician.
What is Phase I and Phase II treatment?
Phase I, or early interceptive treatment, is limited orthodontic treatment
(i.e. expander or partial braces) before all of the permanent teeth have
erupted. Such treatment can occur between the ages of six and nine. This
treatment is sometimes recommended to make more space for developing teeth,
correction of crossbites, overbites, and underbites, or harmful oral habits.
Phase I treatment is not always appropriate. However, when it is, the final
Phase II result will be faster, easier, and more ideal, usually without
extraction of permanent teeth. Phase II treatment is also called comprehensive
treatment because it involves full braces when all of the permanent teeth have
erupted, usually between the ages of eleven and thirteen.
Would an adult patient benefit from orthodontics?
Orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age. Everyone wants a beautiful
and healthy smile. 35% of orthodontic patients in our practice are
adults.
How does orthodontic treatment work?
Braces use steady gentle pressure to gradually move teeth into their proper
positions. The brackets that are placed on your teeth and the archwire that
connects them are the main components. When the archwire is placed into the
brackets, it tries to return to its original shape. As it does so, it applies
pressure to move your teeth to their new, more ideal positions.
How long does orthodontic treatment take?
Treatment times vary on a case-by-case basis, but the average time is from one
to two years. Actual treatment time can be affected by rate of growth and
severity of the correction necessary. Treatment length is also dependent upon
patient compliance. Maintaining good oral hygiene, avoiding restricted foods,
and keeping regular appointments are important in keeping treatment time on
schedule.
Do braces hurt?
The placement of bands and brackets on your teeth does not hurt. Once your
braces are placed and connected with the archwires you may feel some soreness
of your teeth for one to four days. Your lips and cheeks may need one to two
weeks to get used to the braces on your teeth. While braces can be annoying and
cause soreness, there should be no pain.
Will braces interfere with playing sports?
No. It is recommended, however, that patients protect their smiles by wearing a
mouth guard when participating in any sporting activity. Mouth guards are
inexpensive, comfortable, and come in a variety of colors and patterns.
Will braces interfere with playing musical instruments?
No. However, there may be an initial period of adjustment. In addition, brace
covers can be provided to prevent discomfort.
Should I see my general dentist while I have braces?
Yes, you should continue to see your general dentist every six months for
cleanings and dental checkups.