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.
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