Your dentist may have discussed with you the
benefits of having healthy teeth and proper jaw alignment. Crooked
and crowded teeth are hard to clean and maintain. This can result in
tooth decay, worsen gum disease and lead to tooth loss. Other orthodontic
problems can contribute to abnormal wear of tooth surfaces, inefficient
chewing function, excessive stress on gum tissue and the bone that
supports the teeth, or misalignment of the jaw joints. These can lead
to chronic headaches and face or neck pain. Treatment by an orthodontist
can be less costly than the additional care required to treat dental
problems arising as a result of orthodontic problems. For most people,
a beautiful smile is the most obvious benefit of orthodontics. After
your braces come off, you'll feel more self-confident. During your
treatment, we want you to feel as comfortable as possible.
How Orthodontic Treatment Works
Orthodontic appliances can be made of metal,
ceramic or plastic. They may be removable
or they may be brackets bonded to the teeth.
By placing a constant, gentle force in a
carefully controlled direction, braces slowly
move teeth to a corrected position. This
is a great time to wear braces! Gone are
the days when a metal band with a bracket
was placed around each tooth. You can choose
brackets that are clear or metallic color.
You can choose the color of the ties that
hold the wire in brackets. Wires are also
less noticeable than they used to be and
the latest materials move teeth faster with
less discomfort to patients.
Duration of Treatment
Treatment time typically ranges from one to three years, depending
on the growth of the patient's mouth and face and the severity of the
problem. Patients grow at different rates and will respond differently
to orthodontic treatment, so case completion time may differ from the
original estimate. Patient compliance is also an important factor in
achieving the most effective treatment. This includes regular orthodontic
visits, consistent brushing and flossing, eating the right foods, prompt
repair of broken appliances, and diligent use of any prescribed headgear
or elastics. Interceptive, or early treatment procedures, may take
as few as six months.
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