What is orthodontics?

Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that specializes in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial irregularities.

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.

What are some possible benefits of orthodontics?

• An attractive, healthy smile
• Increased self-confidence
• Keeping teeth clean is easier
• Reduced wear on the teeth
• Healthier teeth and gums
• Easier dental treatments

What are some signs that braces may be needed?

• The upper front teeth protrude excessively over the lower teeth
• The upper front teeth cover the majority of the lower teeth when biting together (deep bite)
• The 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
• The centers of the upper and lower teeth 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 when biting together
• Spaces between the teeth

At what age should orthodontic treatment occur?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child should have an orthodontic exam by about age 7. Interceptive treatment (orthodontic treatment before all the permanent teeth have come in) can sometimes eliminate the need for surgery, or reduce the time the patient has to spend in full braces.

What is Phase I and Phase II treatment?

In some cases, comprehensive orthodontic treatment is split into two parts, Phase I and Phase II. Phase I, also called interceptive treatment, takes place before all of the permanent teeth have erupted and is used to make more space for developing teeth, correct crossbites, overbites, underbites, or harmful oral habits. Once the goal of Phase I is achieved, the orthodontist may recommend proceeding directly into Phase II treatment (full upper and lower braces), or may advise waiting a period of time until all the permanent teeth have come in.

Would an adult patient benefit from orthodontics?

Orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age. Everyone wants a beautiful and healthy smile. Twenty to twenty five percent of orthodontic patients today are adults.

How does orthodontic treatment work?

In orthodontics, we use steady, gentle pressure to gradually move teeth. The two main components of braces are the wires and the brackets. The wires are preformed into the ideal archform shape, and have "memory" — meaning they are always trying to get back to their original shape. A small bracket is glued to each tooth, and the wires are tied tightly into each bracket. Because the wire is trying to return to its perfect archform shape, it puts gentle and steady pressure on each tooth to move it to the ideal position.

How long does orthodontic treatment take?

Although treatment times vary on a case-by-case basis, the average time is from one to two years. Actual treatment time is affected by a number of factors, including the patient's growth rate, the amount of correction necessary and patient compliance. Excellent oral hygiene and keeping regular appointments are vital to keeping treatment time on schedule.

Do braces hurt?

The actual placement of bands and brackets on your teeth does not hurt. Once your braces are placed and tied into the archwires you may feel some soreness, typically for only a couple of days. Ibuprofen or Tylenol is usually sufficient to alleviate any soreness.

Will braces interfere with playing sports?

You can still play sports during your orthodontic treatment. We have mouth guards that are specifically made to fit over braces available at our office for no charge.

Will braces interfere with playing musical instruments?

You can still play musical instruments while you have braces, but you will need to adjust your embouchure. We also have brace covers that can help reduce any 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.