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.: WHAT IS ORTHODONTICS?
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Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that corrects teeth and jaws that are positioned improperly. Crooked teeth and teeth that do not fit together correctly are harder to keep clean, are at risk of being lost early due to tooth decay and periodontal disease, and cause extra stress on the chewing muscles that can lead to headaches, TMJ syndrome and neck, shoulder and back pain. Teeth that are crooked or not in the right place can also detract from one's appearance. |
.: HOW DO I KNOW IF I NEED ORTHODONTICS?
Only your dentist or orthodontist can determine whether you can benefit from orthodontics. Based on diagnostic tools that include a full medical and dental health history, a clinical exam, plaster models of your teeth, and special X-rays and photographs, an orthodontist or dentist can decide whether orthodontics are recommended, and develop a treatment plan that's right for you.
If you have any of the following, you may be a candidate for orthodontic treatment:
- Overbite - sometimes called "buck teeth" — where the upper front teeth lie too far forward (stick out) over the lower teeth
- Underbite — a "bulldog" appearance where the lower teeth are too far forward or the upper teeth too far back
- Crossbite — when the upper teeth do not come down slightly in front of the lower teeth when biting together normally
- Open bite — space between the biting surfaces of the front and/or side teeth when the back teeth bite together
- Misplaced midline— when the center of your upper front teeth does not line up with the center of your lower front teeth
- Spacing — gaps, or spaces, between the teeth as a result of missing teeth or teeth that do not "fill up" the mouth
- Crowding — when there are too many teeth for the dental ridge to accommodate
.: HOW DOES ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT WORK?
Many different types of appliances, both fixed and removable, are used to help move teeth, retrain muscles and affect the growth of the jaws. These appliances work by placing gentle pressure on the teeth and jaws. The severity of your problem will determine which orthodontic approach is likely to be the most effective.
.: WHEN SHOULD ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT BEGIN?
Even though most people think of pre-teens and teens when they think of orthodontics, there are good reasons your child should get an orthodontic evaluation much sooner. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an orthodontic check-up no later then age 7. Early treatment may prevent more serious problems from developing and may make treatment shorter and less complicated.
.: WHAT IS PHASE I AND PHASE II TREATMENT?
Two phase orthodontic treatment consists of two separate periods when a child receives orthodontic treatment. The first phase of treatment is done while the child still has many or most of their "baby" teeth. The second phase begins when the child has most or all of their permanent teeth. During the first phase of treatment, traditional braces may or may not be used; other appliances may be used instead or in conjunction with braces.
.: ARE BRACES JUST FOR CHILDREN?
Braces are not just for kids! More and more adults are undergoing orthodontic treatment. Presently, adults make up 20% to 30% of orthodontic patients and this percentage is increasing everyday. Adults benefit from orthodontics just as children do. To improve there appearance, increase self esteem and a much healthier smile. |
