What is an orthodontist?
An orthodontist is a specialist who has completed an advanced education
program for 2 to 3 years following dental
school, to learn the special skills required to manage tooth movement
and guide facial development.
How does orthodontic treatment work?
Orthodontic appliances can be made of metal, ceramics 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. Most bonded brackets can be placed with no discomfort. You
can choose brackets that are
clear or metallic colour. You can choose
the colour of the ties that hold the wire in the brackets. Wires are
also less noticeable than
they used to be and the latest materials
move teeth faster with less discomfort to patients.
How long does orthodontic treatment take?
Treatment time typically ranges from 12-30 months. Interceptive or
early treatment can take as few as six months. This varies from patient
to patient, depending on such factors as difficulty of the existing
problem, age of the patient, certain physiological characteristics
of the patient and probably most important patient cooperation during
treatment. The success of orthodontic treatment is keynoted by cooperation.
It is very important that all instructions be carefully and completely
followed.
The main areas of concern include:
- Wearing certain auxiliaries such as elastics and headgears as instructed
(Note: headgear is not necessary for all patients)
- Being present and on time for all appointments
- Maintaining good oral hygiene
- Minimizing appliance breakages
- Immediate reporting of broken appliances
Poor cooperation in any of these areas can markedly lengthen treatment
time and may detract from the end result.
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.
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
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 regular
cleanings and dental checkups.
What are some possible benefits of orthodontics?
Early treatment can guide permanent teeth into a more favorable position,
reduce the risk of injury to protruded front teeth as well as boost
self-esteem during critical development years.
Orthodontics improves function, force distribution and wear patterns
on teeth. It increases the ability to keep teeth clean which promotes
a better long term health of the teeth and gums and lastly, a more
attractive smile.
What are some signs that braces may be needed?
Do you have?
-
Upper front teeth that protrude excessively
over the lower teeth (overjet
-
Upper front teeth that cover the majority
of the lower teeth when biting together (deepbite)
-
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
-
Difficulty chewing
-
Teeth wearing unevenly or excessively
-
Spaces between the teeth
-
Finger or thumb sucking habits which continue
after six years of age
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