FAQ

What is orthodontics?

Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that specializes in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. The word "orthodontics" comes from the Greek words "ortho" meaning straight and "odons" meaning tooth.

What is an orthodontist?

An orthodontist is a specialist who has completed an advanced education program following dental school, to learn the special skills required to manage tooth movement and guide facial development. Orthodontic education consists of 2-3 years of full-time classes and clinical work in the practical and theoretical aspects of orthodontics.You can read what the American Association of Orthodontists says about this topic here.

What are some possible benefits of orthodontics?

• A more attractive smile
• Reduced appearance-consciousness during critical development years
• Better function of the teeth
• Aid in optimizing other dental treatment
• Increase in 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
• Guidance of permanent teeth into more favorable positions
• Reduced risk of injury to protruded front teeth

What are some signs that braces may be needed?

• Upper front teeth protrude excessively over the lower teeth, or are bucked (overjet)
• Upper front teeth cover the majority of the lower teeth when biting together (deep bite)
• 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
• Spaces between the teeth
• The center of the upper and lower teeth (midlines) 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

At what age should orthodontic treatment occur?

Orthodontic treatment can be started at nearly any age. Many orthodontic problems are easier to correct if detected at an early age before jaw growth has slowed. 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 ten and thirteen.

Would an adult patient benefit from orthodontics?

Yes! Orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age. Everyone who wants a beautiful and healthy smile can benefit from orthodontics. Orthodontic treatment in adults has the same benefits as in adolescents and may make your future visits to the dentist easier. About twenty percent of orthodontic patients today are adults.

How does orthodontic treatment work?

Braces use steady gentle pressure to gradually move teeth into their proper positions. The brackets that are placed on your teeth and the archwire that connects them are the main components. The archwire is shaped to match the position where the teeth should be located ideally. When the archwire is placed into the brackets, it is distorted and 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 orthodontic treatment take?

Treatment times vary on a case-by-case basis, but the average time is from one to 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, so wearing headgear and rubber bands as prescribed is extremely important. Maintaining good oral hygiene and keeping regular appointments are important in keeping treatment time on schedule.

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 the first week or two. Your lips and cheeks may also need one to two weeks to get used to the braces on your teeth. We always do our best to make sure your braces are as comfortable as possible.

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. Please ask about mouth guards at our office, we will help you pick one that is right for you.

Will braces interfere with playing musical instruments?

No. However, there may be an initial period of adjustment. In addition, brace covers or wax 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 three to six months for cleanings and dental checkups.