What is Orthodontics?
Orthodontics is a specialized field of dentistry focused on diagnosing, preventing, and treating dental and facial irregularities.
What is an Orthodontist?
An orthodontist is a dental specialist who has completed advanced education beyond dental school to acquire the expertise necessary to manage tooth movement and guide facial development.
What Are the Potential Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment?
- A more attractive and confident smile
- Reduced self-consciousness during crucial developmental stages
- Improved function of the teeth
- Enhanced self-esteem
- Better dental hygiene due to easier cleaning
- Balanced force distribution and wear patterns on teeth
- Long-term health benefits for your teeth and gums
- Correct positioning of permanent teeth
- Decreased risk of injury to protruding front teeth
- Better alignment for optimized other dental treatments
How Can I Tell if Braces Are Needed?
- Upper front teeth protrude excessively over the lower teeth (overbite)
- Upper front teeth cover most of the lower teeth when biting down (deep bite)
- Upper front teeth are positioned behind or inside the lower teeth (underbite)
- The upper and lower front teeth don’t touch when biting together (open bite)
- Crowded or overlapping teeth
- Misalignment between the upper and lower teeth
- Continued thumb or finger sucking after the age of six or seven
- Difficulty chewing food properly
- Uneven or excessive wear of the teeth
- The lower jaw shifts to one side when biting down
- Gaps between teeth
When is the Right Time for Orthodontic Treatment?
Orthodontic treatment can begin at any age. Many issues are easier to treat when identified early, before the jaw growth slows. Early intervention may prevent the need for surgery or more extensive procedures later on. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children visit an orthodontist by age 7 or earlier if a problem is noticed by parents, their dentist, or pediatrician.
What is Phase I and Phase II Treatment?
- Phase I (Early Interceptive Treatment): This is limited orthodontic treatment (such as a spacer or partial braces) before all permanent teeth have erupted, typically between the ages of six and ten. It can address issues like crossbites, overbites, underbites, and thumb-sucking habits.
- Phase II (Comprehensive Treatment): This phase involves full braces once all permanent teeth have come in, usually between the ages of eleven and thirteen.
Can Adults Benefit from Orthodontic Treatment?
Yes, orthodontic treatment is effective for patients of all ages. In fact, 20-25% of orthodontic patients today are adults, all seeking to achieve a beautiful, healthy smile.
How Does Orthodontic Treatment Work?
Braces apply gentle, consistent pressure to move teeth gradually into their ideal positions. The brackets attached to your teeth and the connecting archwire work together—when the archwire returns to its original shape, it applies pressure to shift your teeth into proper alignment.
How Long Does Orthodontic Treatment Take?
The duration of treatment depends on the individual case but typically ranges from one to two years. Factors like the complexity of the issues being addressed, the rate of growth, and patient adherence to instructions can influence treatment time.
Do Braces Cause Pain?
Placing the bands and brackets on your teeth does not cause pain. However, after the braces are attached and the archwires are inserted, you may experience mild soreness for up to four days. It may take one to two weeks for your lips and cheeks to adjust to the braces.
Will Braces Affect My Ability to Play Sports?
No, braces won’t interfere with sports activities, but it’s recommended that you wear a mouthguard for protection. Mouthguards are comfortable, inexpensive, and available in a variety of colors and styles.
Can I Play Musical Instruments with Braces?
Yes, braces won’t prevent you from playing musical instruments, although there may be a short adjustment period as you get used to them.
Should I Continue Seeing My General Dentist While Wearing Braces?
Yes, it’s important to maintain regular dental visits every six months for cleanings and check-ups to ensure your oral health is maintained during your orthodontic treatment.
