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Braces
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- At what age can people have orthodontic treatment?
- The biological process involved in moving teeth is the same at any age.
Children and adults can both benefit from orthodontics. It is recommended
that every child receive an orthodontic evaluation by age seven. Treatment
may take a little longer for adults. Because an adult's facial bones are no
longer growing, certain corrections may not be accomplished with braces
alone.
- What causes orthodontic problems?
- An orthodontic problem is called a malocclusion, meaning "bad
bite." Some examples of causes of malocclusion are crowded teeth, extra
teeth, missing teeth or jaws that are out of alignment.
- Most malocclusions are inherited, although some can be acquired. Acquired
malocclusions can be caused by accidents, early or late loss of baby teeth,
or sucking of the thumb or fingers for a prolonged period of time.
- How are orthodontic problems corrected?
- First, pretreatment records are made. These records are important tools
for the dentist to use in making an accurate diagnosis. They include
medical/dental history, clinical examination, plaster study models of teeth,
photos of your face and teeth and x-rays of your mouth and head. This
information will be used to decide on the best treatment.
- A custom treatment plan is outlined for each patient. The specific
treatment appliance best suited to correct the patient's orthodontic problem
is constructed. There are a variety of different orthodontic appliances that
may be used.
- When the orthodontic appliances are in place, this is considered the
"active treatment" phase. Appliances are adjusted periodically so
that the teeth are moved correctly and efficiently.
- The time required for orthodontic treatment varies from person to person.
An important factor in how long a patient wears braces is how well the
patient cooperates during treatment — for example, by following
instructions to wear rubber bands or head gear.
- After active treatment is completed, the "retention" phase
begins. A patient will need to wear a retainer so that the teeth stay in
their new positions. For severe orthodontic problems, surgery may be
recommended.
- Are there less noticeable braces
- Today's braces are generally less noticeable than those of the past.
Brackets, the part of the braces that hold the wires, are bonded to the
front of the teeth. These brackets can be metal, clear, or tooth-colored.
Wires that are used for braces today are also less noticeable. In some
cases, brackets may be put on the back of the teeth (lingual appliances).
Modern wires are also less noticeable than their predecessors. Today's wires
are made of "space age" materials that exert a steady, gentle
pressure on the teeth, making the tooth-moving process faster and more
comfortable for patients.
- How long will treatment take?
- Although the average treatment time is about 24 months, this varies with
individual patients. Usually, adult treatment takes a little longer than a
child's treatment. Other things to keep in mind are the severity of the
problem, the health of the teeth, gums and supporting bone and how closely
the patient follows instructions. While orthodontic treatment requires a
time commitment, most people feel the benefits are well worth the time
invested.
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