What is the best age to start treatment?
The American Association of Orthodontics recommends that
every child should first visit an orthodontist at age 7. An early
examination allows the orthodontist to determine how and
when a child's particular problem should be treated for
maximum improvement. In some cases, early treatment achieves
results that are unattainable once the face and jaws have
completed growing.
Why is orthodontics important?
An attractive smile and improved self-image is just one
of the benefits of orthodontic treatment. It also can alleviate and
prevent physical health problems.
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.
Do habits like thumb sucking cause a problem?
Prolonged thumb sucking can indeed affect the way the teeth grow
in and will ultimately affect the bite. Other habits such as
open-mouth breathing, finger sucking, or lip biting can also
cause complications. Early examination by an orthodontist
will determine if treatment will aid in getting habits
stopped.
Will braces hurt?
Most orthodontic patients experience some discomfort the
first week after their braces are put on, and right after
the braces are tightened. You can use non-aspirin
pain relievers to ease the discomfort.
How long will I have to undergo orthodontic treatment?
The time needed to undergo orthodontic treatment will
vary for each patient. It always depends on how much your
jaw needs to change and how far your teeth must move. We are
committed to making your treatment as swift and effective as
possible.
Will I still be able to play sports?
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 an exciting variety of colors and
patterns.
Will braces interfere with playing musical instruments?
No. However, there may be an initial period of
adjustment. In addition, brace covers can be provided to
prevent discomfort.
Are retainers necessary? How long will I have to wear
one?
A retainer is a device worn full or part-time after
braces have been removed. The retainer is designed to
prevent your teeth from drifting or moving while the bone
around your teeth hardens and stabilizes. The longer you
wear your retainer, the better your chances that your teeth
will not relapse. Retainers provide assurance that your
teeth will stay in perfect alignment while your jaw
continues to grow or develop.
Am I too old for orthodontics?
About 35% of orthodontic patients today are adults. Many
adults are correcting problems that were never treated when
they were children, and can now experience the satisfaction
of a perfect smile.
What is TMJ?
TMJ Dysfunction is a condition of the jaw that occurs
when the Temporo Mandibular Joint is misaligned or
malfunctioning in a way that subjects the joint to excess
pressure. TMJ can seriously affect how your mouth works and
often includes side-effects such as blocked nasal passages,
neck pain, headaches and difficulty chewing.
What is malocclusion?
The technical term for teeth that do not fit together
correctly is 'malocclusion'. 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 cause the development of malocclusion. Inherited
malocclusions are usually caused by difference between the
size of the teeth and the size of the jaw structure. Whether
inherited or acquired, malocclusions affect not only the
alignment of the teeth, but also the appearance of the face.
How much will it cost?
Costs vary depending on the type of treatment. Today many
dental policies include orthodontic benefits making
orthodontic fees more affordable than ever before.
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