FAQ
Q: What is orthodontics?
A: Orthodontics is a specialty branch of dentistry that deals with the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. Braces are appliances normally used to correct these problems.
Q: Why is orthodontics important?
A: An attractive smile and improved self-image is just one of the benefits of orthodontic treatment. Without treatment, orthodontic problems can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, bone destruction, chewing and digestive difficulties, speech impairments, tooth loss and other dental injuries.
Q: What are the benefits of braces?
A: Having straight teeth that fit together properly improves function and your teeth and jaw joints can work more effectively. Straight teeth make it easier for you and your dental team to keep them clean. If you ever need a filling, crown or bridge, your dentist can usually do better restoration if the teeth are aligned properly. The appearance of teeth and face is improved. Having a pleasing smile improves self-esteem, confidence and a feeling of acceptance in our daily activities.
Q: At what age should orthodontic treatment occur?
A: Orthodontic treatment can be started at any age. Many orthodontic problems are easier to correct at a young age, while the patient is still growing. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children see an orthodontist around age 7.
Q: What is a malocclusion?
A: Malocclusion literally means bad bite. Most malocclusions are inherited; however, it is possible to acquire a bad bite from habits such as tongue thrusting and thumb sucking. The premature loss of baby teeth or the extraction of adult teeth can also cause the development of malocclusion.
Q: What are some early warning signs of a bite problem?
A: Early or late loss of primary teeth, difficulty in chewing or biting, mouth breathing, finger sucking or other oral habits beyond age 5, overlapped, misplaced or blocked-out teeth, protruding teeth, biting the cheek or into the roof of the mouth, teeth that meet in an abnormal manner or do not meet at all, jaws that shift or make sounds, jaws that protrude, retrude or contribute to facial imbalance, speech difficulty, spaces between the teeth, excessive wear of the teeth and unusually shaped teeth.
Q: Will braces hurt?
A: Most patients experience some discomfort for a few days after their braces are placed. Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be used to ease the discomfort.
Q: What can I eat with braces?
A: Most foods can be enjoyed just as before you got your braces. Hard, crunchy and sticky foods can damage braces and should be avoided.
Q: Why do baby teeth sometimes need to be pulled?
A: Pulling baby teeth may be necessary to allow severely crowded permanent teeth to come in at a normal time in a normal location. If the teeth are severely crowded, some permanent teeth will either remain impacted (teeth that should have come in, but have not) or come in to an undesirable position. To allow severely crowded teeth to move in on their own in a normal sequence of time.
Q: What about the wisdom teeth (third molars), should they be removed?
A: Most people should have their wisdom teeth or third molars removed around the ages of 18-21 years old. Your dentist will recommend removal at the appropriate time.
Q: How long will I have to undergo orthodontic treatment?
A: It varies from patient to patient. It depends on the type of correction and the amount of corrected needed.
Q: Will I still be able to play sports?
A: Yes. 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.
Q: Will braces interfere with playing musical instruments?
A: No. However, there may be an initial period of adjustment. In addition, brace covers or wax can be provided to prevent irritation of rubbing the braces on the lips and cheeks.
Q: Can you be too old for braces?
A: No. Age is not a factor; however, there are advantages to treating young people while they are still growing. About 25% of orthodontic patients in the United States are adults. If you are an adult considering orthodontic work, that treatment has changed a great deal in the last few years. Braces are more comfortable and more effective today. In our office, most adults have the option of ceramic (tooth colored) braces, mini stainless steel braces or Invisalign. Invisalign is an alternative to fixed braces that uses a series of clear, removable aligners to straighten the teeth.
Q: Why are retainers needed after orthodontic treatment?
A: After braces are removed, teeth can shift out of position if they are not stabilized. Retainers provide that stabilization and are designed to hold teeth in their corrected, ideal positions until the bones and gums adapt to the treatment changes. Wearing retainers exactly as instructed is the best insurance that the treatment improvements last for a lifetime.
Q: Is orthodontic care expensive?
A: Orthodontic fees have not increased as fast as many other consumer products. When orthodontic treatment is implemented at the proper time, treatment is often less costly than the dental care required to treat the more serious problems that can develop years later. After examining you or your child, we will review the costs involved with treatment. Financing is usually available and our office offers customized-flexible payment programs that will meet your needs. In addition, many insurance plans now include orthodontics.
Q: How often will I need office visits?
A: Once appliances are placed, routine office visits are at 8-10 week intervals. Periodically, we may need to see you sooner under some circumstances.