Orthodontics

 

A beautiful smile is just one of the benefits of orthodontic treatment.

Most people agree that beautifully aligned, straight teeth look great and create a smile that gives you the confidence to look and feel your best. If your teeth are crooked, orthodontic treatment may be just what you need to give you a smile you can wear with confidence!

 

The benefits of having straight teeth go way beyond appearance. Today, an expanding array of "invisible" orthodontic hardware, fixing flawed teeth has become more appealing than ever. In fact, more adults are seeking orthodontic treatment because of aesthetic options. About one in five orthodontic patients are 18 or older, up by a third from past decade.

 

The facts about Orthodontic treatment:

Your smile communicates a lot about how you feel about yourself. Besides boosting your self-confidence and helping you feel better about yourself, a proper bite also contributes to improved dental health that can affect your overall physical health and well being.

 

What problems are caused when teeth are crooked?

Beyond the loss of self confidence many people feel, crooked teeth are harder to keep clean, increasing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Sometimes it's harder to chew certain types of healthy, high-fiber foods, causing either digestive difficulties or avoidance of the offending foods. Other people may experience discomfort in their jaw joints from improper alignment of teeth and gums. If your teeth protrude, they may be more likely to chip or fracture. An improper bite may even cause teeth to wear unevenly or faster.

 

What are the different types of orthodontic problems?

There are a number of problems that can create the need for orthodontic treatment from crooked, crowded or improperly spaced teeth. When teeth and jaws do not fit and work together correctly, it means a "bad bite"

 

New technology and software advances orthodontic treatment?

Not too long ago, the process of purring braces on could take several long and uncomfortable appointments. Braces were attached to teeth with steel bands individually fitted around each tooth. Today, heat activated nickel-titanium alloy wires, smaller braces applied directly to the tooth surface, new adhesives and computer software make orthodontic treatment much more comfortable with more effective results. The new wires apply gradual, precise and gentle pressure requiring fewer adjustments. Braces can be a colorful self-expression with multi-color elastic ties used as fashion accessory.

• Tooth-Colored Brackets: Even traditional braces are becoming less noticeable due to brackets that visually blend in. Some of today's braces are translucent or tooth-colored, made of ceramic or plastic to get rid of the "metal mouth" look.

• Lingual Braces: These braces attach to the backs of teeth, not the front, so they are not the first thing you see when you smile. With this type of braces, there are fewer irritations to the lips and cheeks. They may be irritating to the tongue.

• Clear Aligners: Custom-made by advanced computer imaging for each set of teeth, Invisalign markets there removable, translucent, plastic trays. A computer program creates a series of trays that gradually realign teeth. Very popular among adults, clear aligners can be used on teens who have their permanent molars. A young patient may have compliance problems because these must be worn frequently to be effective.

 

Do I need to see an orthodontist if my teeth are crooked, or can my regular dentist help me?

All dentists receive some training in orthodontics, so you may wish to begin by first discussing your options with your regular dentist. He or she may recommend that you see an orthodontist. These specialists have completed advanced educational programs after dental school and have received in-depth training.

 

At what age should orthodontic treatment begin?

Children, adolescents and adults can all benefit from orthodontic treatment; it all depends upon individual circumstances. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child visit and orthodontist by age seven, unless a problem is evident earlier. That way, the orthodontist can determine the most ideal time to begin treatment.

 

What steps does orthodontic treatment involve?

• Evaluation phase: is when your orthodontist diagnoses problems, makes plaster models of your teeth, photographs your face and teeth, and takes comprehensive x-rays of your mouth and head.

• Treatment phase: is when braces are applied (or invisible tray use begins) to gradually reposition teeth, jaws and chewing muscles. Wired may be adjusted periodically and other helpful orthodontic appliances may be prescribed to speed your treatment time.

• Follow -up phase: usually requires the use of retainer to keep teeth in their new position and allow tissue to stabilize. Remain under the supervision of an orthodontist.

 

How long will I need to wear braces?

Wearing time is determine by a number of factors: the severity of the malocclusion, the overall health of your teeth, gums and supporting bone, your age, and how closely you follow instructions. In general treatment time ranges anywhere from one to three years.

 

How do braces affect what a person can or cannot eat?

To make the most of your treatment, it's important that you follow your orthodontist's recommendations-and that means making adjustments to your diet. Avoid sticky foods like caramel, gum and taffy, plus crunchy foods like corn chips, popcorn and nuts. Don't chew ice cubes! Hard vegetables and fruits like carrots and apples should be cut into bite-size pieces.

 

How Do I take care of braces?

• Whatever type of braces you wear, take extra time for oral health care. The goal is to remove plaque from around the teeth and gums.

• When brushing at least twice a day, make sure you reach all surfaces around the braces and clean the teeth and braces properly.

• Flossing is more important than ever when you have braces. Floss-threaders are helpfulin passing floss under wires to help reach difficult areas.

• Oral irrigators can help remove food debris from about the tooth.

• Mouth rinses can be used to help reduce the level of bacteria around the teeth.

 

Final Word:

Orthodontic treatment makes a wonderful investment in yourself. The effort you put into working with your orthodontist and carefully following instructions on how to take care of your appliances and teeth will help you achieve the kind of results you'll appreciate for years to come!