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 benefits of orthodontic treatment?
There are a number of reasons to pursue orthodontic treatment. Cosmetic improvement is the main concern of most patients. However, a bite discrepancy may cause other problems, such as premature wear of the teeth, accelerated loss of gum and bone support to the teeth (with eventual loss of the teeth) and chewing difficulties. In some patients, the alignment of the teeth can prevent normal lower jaw function, leading to eventual pain in the jaw muscles or a breakdown in the lower jaw joint. Orthodontic treatment will improve long-term health of teeth and gum tissues. It aids in optimizing other dental restorative treatment. In young patients orthodontic treatment can guide permanent teeth eruption into more favorable position
At What age should an orthodontic treatment occur?
Although orthodontic treatment can be completed at any point in a person’s lifetime, the best time to pursue treatment is typically during the adolescent growth spurt. This growth period varies from case to case. Girls, in general, mature earlier and faster, so timing in their cases is more critical. The average starting age for girls is between 9 and 11 years. Boys will typically start between ages 10 and 12. These are general guidelines and as always there are “exceptions to the rule.” Some cases may require earlier intervention. Other patients have slow erupting teeth, which may require starting later. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child first visit an orthodontist at age 7. This allows us to complete a growth study if the patient is not ready to start. If the patient is ready, we will let you know. Occasionally, your dentist may see something in the bite, which may require more immediate action.
What is Phase I and Phase II treatment?
Phase I, or early interceptive treatment, is limited orthodontic treatment (e.g., expander or partial braces) before all of the permanent teeth have erupted. Such treatment can occur between the ages of seven and ten. This treatment is sometimes recommended to make more space for developing teeth, correction of crossbites, overbites, and underbites, or harmful oral habits. Phase II treatment is also called comprehensive treatment because it involves full braces when all of the permanent teeth have erupted, usually between the ages of eleven and thirteen.
How long does orthodontic treatment take?
Treatment time varies widely depending on a number of variables. In general, more difficult cases take longer. The rate and direction of jaw growth and tooth eruption can have a significant impact on treatment time. Another important variable is the patient’s commitment to following the treatment plan. The average case takes approximately 24 months to complete. Some cases can take as little as 6 months, while more complicated cases can take as long as 36 months. The best way to determine treatment time is to schedule an orthodontic complimentary evaluation.
Does my dentist need to make a referral?
No – you do not need a referral from your dentist to schedule an orthodontic exam. Some patients may seek out an orthodontic evaluation at the suggestion of their dentists. However, many patients come to us on their own. Some may be “between dentists,” while others have an orthodontic concern that has not been addressed by their dentist.
Does orthodontic treatment hurt?
In general, the teeth will be sensitive for 1 to 3 days, following an adjustment of the braces. The sensitivity is similar to the muscle soreness you might feel after a good workout. No “shots” are given with orthodontic treatment, so if you have a fear of needles, there’s no need to fear orthodontic treatment.
Can I return to school the day I receive my braces?
Yes. There is no reason to miss school because of an orthodontic appointment.
Is orthodontic treatment the same for everybody?
No – treatment times and techniques vary widely, so there are no two orthodontic treatment plans that are exactly the same.
Numerous treatment techniques have been developed to address the variations found in individual cases. Oftentimes, orthodontists will vary in their treatment approach. For example, some orthodontists may recommend extraction of permanent teeth to resolve a crowded condition, while others may recommend using jaw growth. In some cases, both options may be presented. If you have any questions about a proposed treatment, please ask Dr Salem at your initial consultation. If questions persist, you can always consult another orthodontist for a second opinion.
Now I have braces! Do I still need dental checkups every six months?
Yes! In fact, it’s even more important that patients receiving orthodontic treatment visit their dentist regularly. With braces, food may be caught in places that your toothbrush can’t reach. This causes bacteria to build-up which can lead to cavities, gingivitis, and gum disease. Your dentist will work closely with your orthodontist to make sure that your teeth stay clean and healthy while wearing braces.
Can I wear braces even though I have crowns and missing teeth?
Yes. A tooth with a crown will move just like a tooth with a simple filling. When teeth are missing, orthodontic treatment will aid in the alignment of the remaining teeth.