What is "orthodontics," and why do
people get braces?
Orthodontics is a special discipline of dentistry concerned with
aligning the teeth and jaws to improve one's smile and oral
health. "Ortho" means correct or straight and "Odont" means
tooth. A dentist usually recommends braces to improve the
patient's physical "orofacial" appearance. Through orthodontic
treatment, problems like crooked or crowded teeth, overbites or
underbites, incorrect jaw position and disorders of the jaw
joints are corrected.
When is the right time for braces?
Patients with orthodontic problems can benefit from treatment at
nearly any age. An ideal time for placement of braces is between
10 and 14 years of age, while the head and mouth are still
growing and teeth are more accessible to straightening. However,
because any adjustments in facial appearance can be traumatic to
a child during these sensitive years, parents should discuss the
matter with their children before braces are applied. And braces
aren't just for kids. More and more adults are also wearing
braces to correct minor problems and to improve their smiles.
What kind of braces will I
have to wear?
Your dentist will know what appliance is best for your
particular problem, but the patient often has a choice. Braces
generally come in three varieties: The most popular type are
brackets, metal or plastic, that are bonded to teeth and are far
less noticeable. The "lingual" type of braces are brackets that
attach to the back of teeth, hidden from view. Bands are the
traditional type that cover most of your teeth with metal bands
that wrap around the teeth. All use wires to move the teeth to
the desired position.
How long will I have to wear
braces?
That depends upon your treatment plan. The more complicated your
spacing or bite problem is, and the older you are, the longer
the period of treatment, usually. Most patients can count on
wearing full braces between 18 and 30 months, followed by the
wearing of a retainer for at least a few months to up to two
years to set and align tissues surrounding straightened teeth.
Some patients may have to wear a permanent retainer.
Will treatment be
uncomfortable?
The interconnecting wires are tightened at each visit, bearing
mild pressure on the brackets or bands to shift teeth or jaws,
gradually into a desired position. Your teeth and jaws may feel
slightly sore after each visit, but the discomfort is brief.
Keep in mind also that some teeth may need to be extracted to
make room for teeth being shifted with braces and for proper jaw
alignment. |
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Do
I have to avoid any foods or personal habits?
Yes. Cut down on sweets, chips and soda. Sugary and starchy
foods generate acid and plaque that can cause tooth decay and
promote gum disease. Cut healthy, hard foods like carrots or
apples into smaller pieces. Sticky, chewy sweets like caramel
can cause wire damage and loosen brackets. Avoid hard and
crunchy snacks that can break braces, including popcorn, nuts
and hard candy. More dont's: ice cube chewing, thumb sucking,
excessive mouth breathing, lip biting and pushing your tongue
against your teeth.What
about home care of my teeth with braces?
With braces, oral hygiene is more important than ever. Braces
have tiny spaces were food particles and plaque get trapped.
Brush carefully after every meal with fluoride toothpaste and a
soft-bristled toothbrush. Rinse thoroughly and check your teeth
in the mirror to make sure they're clean. Take time to floss
between braces and under wires with the help of a floss threader.
Have your teeth cleaned every six months to keep your gums and
teeth healthy. Insufficient cleaning while wearing braces can
cause enamel staining around brackets or bands.
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Who will provide my
orthodontic treatment?
Your family general dentist is responsible for coordinating your
dental treatment, and this could encompass any orthodontic
treatment plan, including diagnosis, examinations and some
orthodontic procedures. Your dentist may, however, refer you to
an "orthodontist"—a specialist trained in the development,
prevention and correction of irregularities of the teeth, bite
and jaws and related facial abnormalities. |
