What is orthodontics?

Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry where doctors diagnose, prevent, and treat different teeth, jaw and facial irregularities.

What is an orthodontist?

An orthodontist is a specialist who has additional training and the skills required to manage tooth movement and facial development.

A few noticeable benefits of orthodontics:

• A more attractive smile
• Easier to bite and chew food
• Improved speech
• Better long-term health of teeth and gums
• Optimizes the effectiveness of regular dental treatment

Eight signs that may braces may be needed:

• 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 (under bite)
• The upper and lower front teeth do not touch when biting together (open bite)
• Crowded or overlapped teeth
• Finger- or thumb-sucking habits
• Difficulty chewing
• The lower jaw shifts to one side or the other when biting together
• There are large gaps between your teeth

What is the best age for orthodontic treatment?

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 should visit the orthodontist by age seven to determine if orthodontic treatment will be needed. Your family dentist may also refer you to an orthodontist if a problem is detected.

What is Phase I and Phase II treatment?

Phase-one treatment is completed before all of the permanent teeth have erupted. This treatment can occur between the ages of six and ten. Phase-one treatment is sometimes recommended to help create more space for developing teeth to come through, correction of cross bites, overbites, and under bites, or to repair the damage caused from bad oral habits such as thumb or finger sucking.

Phase-two treatment always involves full braces once all of the permanent teeth have erupted. Phase-two usually is started between the ages of 11 and 13, and can take as long as two years.

Can adults benefit from orthodontic treatment?

Orthodontic treatment is successful at any age. Everybody wants a beautiful, healthy smile. Almost 25 percent of orthodontic patients today are adults.

How do braces straighten teeth?

Braces use steady gentle pressure to gradually move teeth into their proper positions. Brackets are placed on your teeth and an archwire connects them together. When the archwire is placed into the brackets, it tries to return to its original shape. As it does this, it applies pressure that moves your teeth to a straighter position.

How long will my orthodontic treatment take?

Treatment times vary from patient to patient, but an average treatment can take anywhere between nine months to four years depending on what is being treated. Actual treatment time can be affected by how fast the patient's jaw is growing and changing or how drastic the changes are. Treatment length is also dependent upon patient compliance. Maintaining good oral hygiene and keeping regular appointments are important for keeping treatment time on schedule.

Do braces hurt?

No! 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 a little sore 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?

Braces will not affect a patient's involvement in sports. It is recommended, however, that patients protect their appliances by wearing a mouthguard. Mouthguards are inexpensive, comfortable, and come in a variety of fun 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 cleanings and dental checkups.