Ask the Orthodontist

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. This includes four years of college, four years of dental school and two years of orthodontic residency 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
Better function of the teeth
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
Guides permanent teeth into more favorable positions
Reduces the risk of injury to protruded front teeth
Aids 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 flared (overjet)
Upper front teeth cover the majority of the lower teeth when biting together (deep bite/overbite)
Upper front teeth are behind or inside the lower front teeth (under bite)
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 can help avoid more serious future 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. The majority of orthodontic treatments occur when all of the permanent teeth are erupted (adolescents).

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 the correction of cross bites, over bites, under bites, 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.

Would an adult patient benefit from orthodontics?

Orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age. Everyone wants a beautiful and healthy smile. The percentage of adult orthodontic patients is growing rapidly.

How does orthodontic treatment work?

Braces use steady pressure to gradually move teeth into their proper positions. The brackets that are placed on your teeth and the arch wire that connects them are the main components. When the arch wire 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 conventional orthodontic treatment take?

Treatment times vary on a case-by-case basis, but the average time is approximately 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. The SureSmile® technology available in our practice can shorten total treatment 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 arch wires you may feel some discomfort of your teeth for two to five 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 teeth by wearing a mouth guard when participating in any sporting activity. Orthodontic mouth guards are supplied by our office.

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. We can arrange to remove/replace your wires for your dental appointments.