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What is orthodontics?
Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that specializes in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. The correction of teeth and jaw alignment results in a healthy, attractive smile for life. Orthodontic treatment improves oral health and dental function while enhancing self-esteem and confidence. The ultimate goal of orthodontic treatment is to achieve function, balance, and harmony between the teeth and the face.
What is an orthodontist?
Orthodontists are specialists in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. An orthodontist is a specialist who has completed a two to three year advanced education program following dental school. These full-time programs exist at universities and are accredited by the American Dental Association as official specialty training programs. Orthodontists are experts in 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” (overjet)
- Upper front teeth cover the majority of the lower teeth when biting (deep overbite)
- Upper front teeth are behind or inside the lower front teeth (underbite)
- The upper and lower front teeth do not touch when biting (open bite)
- The upper back or front teeth are locked inside the lower teeth (crossbite)
- Crowded, overlapped, or rotated 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
- Spaces between the teeth
At what age should orthodontic treatment occur?
Braces are suitable for patients of all ages – anyone who is interested in improving their smile. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child should have an orthodontic evaluation by age 7. Orthodontic treatment for children may be indicated at different ages depending on individual findings. In some cases, treatment is not started until all permanent teeth are in. In other cases, an earlier interceptive treatment is the most efficient method for correcting and/or minimizing developing problems before all the permanent teeth are in. 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 simplify a later treatment.
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, for 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. The supporting bone around your teeth gradually remodels to make tooth movements possible.
How long does orthodontic treatment take?
Duration of treatment varies with each individual case, but most treatments can be completed in two years or less. An assessment of your or your child’s condition will be provided at the initial exam. Possible treatment options and appropriate treatment timing are discussed at that time.
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 a dull ache or soreness of your teeth for one to five days. Traditional over-the-counter pain relievers such as aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil®, Motrin®), or acetaminophen (Tylenol®) are very effective when used as directed. In addition, your lips and cheeks may need one to two weeks to “toughen” and get used to the braces on your teeth. You can put wax on the braces or use topical anesthetics like Orajel® and Anbesol® to help you through this initial stage of treatment.
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 types.
Will braces interfere with playing musical instruments?
No. However, there may be an initial period of adjustment. In addition, brace covers or wax can be provided to prevent discomfort.
Should I see my general dentist while I have braces?
Yes, you should continue to see your dentist during you orthodontic treatment. Excellent oral hygiene is more important than ever with braces so routine exams and cleanings with your family dentist are continued during your time with us. The best results from orthodontic treatment are derived from teamwork between the patient, the family dentist, and the orthodontist.
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