|
      |
      |
Frequently Asked Questions
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
-
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
-
Aid 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 ten. This treatment is sometimes
recommended to make more space for developing teeth, correction of crossbites,
overbites, underbites or harmful oral habits. 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. Twenty to twenty-five percent of orthodontic patients today
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 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.
Will braces interfere with playing sports?
No. It is recommended, however, that patients protect their smiles by wearing
a mouthguard when participating in any sporting activity. Mouthguards 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.
|
|
|
