Crooked and crowded teeth are hard to clean and maintain. This may contribute to conditions that cause not only tooth decay but also eventual gum disease and tooth loss. Other orthodontic problems can contribute to abnormal wear of tooth surfaces, inefficient chewing function, excessive stress on gum tissue and the bone that supports the teeth, or misalignment of the jaw joints, which can result in chronic headaches or pain in the face or neck.
When left untreated, many orthodontic problems become worse. Treatment by a specialist to correct the original problem is often less costly than the additional dental care required to treat more serious problems that can develop in later years.
The value of an attractive smile should not be underestimated. A pleasing appearance is a vital asset to one’s self-confidence. A person’s self-esteem often improves as treatment brings teeth, lips and face into proportion. In this way, orthodontic treatment can benefit social and career success, as well as improve one’s general attitude toward life.
At what age can people have orthodontic treatment?
Children and adults can both benefit from orthodontics, because healthy teeth can be moved at almost any age. Because monitoring growth and development is crucial to managing some orthodontic problems well, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children have an orthodontic screening no later than age 7. Some orthodontic problems may be easier to correct if treated early. Waiting until all the permanent teeth have come in, or until facial growth is nearly complete, may make correction of some problems more difficult.
An orthodontic evaluation at any age is advisable if a parent, family dentist or a patient’s physician has noted a problem.
Why should children have an orthodontic screening no later than age 7?
By age 7, enough permanent teeth have come in and enough jaw growth has occurred that the dentist or orthodontist can identify current problems, anticipate future problems and alleviate parents’ concerns if all seems normal. The first permanent molars and incisors have usually come in by age 7, and crossbites, crowding and developing injury-prone dental protrusions can be evaluated. Any ongoing finger sucking or other oral habits can be assessed at this time also.
An orthodontic screening no later than age 7 enables the orthodontist to detect and evaluate problems (if any), advise if treatment will be necessary, and determine the best time for that patient to be treated.
What are the benefits of early treatment?
For those patients who have clear indications for early orthodontic intervention, early treatment presents an opportunity to:
- Guide the growth of the jaw,
- Regulate the width of the upper and lower dental arches (the arch-shaped jaw bone that supports the teeth),
- Guide incoming permanent teeth into desirable positions,
- Lower risk of trauma (accidents) to protruded upper incisors (front teeth),
- Correct harmful oral habits such as thumb- or finger-sucking,
- Reduce or eliminate abnormal swallowing or speech problems,
- Improve personal appearance and self-esteem,
- Potentially simplify and/or shorten treatment time for later corrective orthodontics,
- Reduce likelihood of impacted permanent teeth (teeth that should have come in, but have not), and
- Preserve or gain space for permanent teeth that are coming in.
Can orthodontic treatment do for me what it does for children?
As stated previously, healthy teeth can be moved at almost any age. Many orthodontic problems can be corrected as easily and as well for adults as children. Orthodontic forces move the teeth in the same way for both a 75-year-old adult and a 12-year-old child. Complicating factors, such as lack of jaw growth, may create special treatment planning needs for the adult.
How long will orthodontic treatment take?
In general, active treatment time with orthodontic appliances (braces) ranges from one to three years. Interceptive, or early treatment procedures, may take only a few months. The actual time depends on the growth of the patient’s mouth and face, the cooperation of the patient and the severity of the problem. Mild problems usually require less time, and some individuals respond faster to treatment than others. Use of rubber bands and/or headgear, if prescribed by the orthodontist, contributes to completing treatment as scheduled.
What does orthodontic treatment cost?
The actual cost of treatment depends on several factors, including the severity of the patient’s problem and the treatment approach selected. You will be able to thoroughly discuss fees and payment options before any treatment begins. We offer convenient payment plans to patients. Generally, treatment fees may be paid over the course of active treatment. Arrangements commonly offered in our may include an initial down payment with monthly installments, credit card payment, finance company agreements, and other innovative ways to make treatment affordable. Insurance plans or other employer-sponsored payment programs, such as direct reimbursement plans, may be helpful.
While orthodontic treatment requires a time commitment, patients are rewarded with healthy teeth, proper jaw alignment and a beautiful smile that lasts a lifetime. Teeth and jaws in proper alignment look better, work better, contribute to general physical health and can improve self-confidence.
How do braces feel? Do they hurt?
Most people have some discomfort after their braces are first put on or when adjusted during treatment. After the braces are on, teeth may become sore and may be tender to biting pressures for three to five days. Patients can usually manage this discomfort well with whatever pain medication they might commonly take for a headache. The orthodontist will advise patients and/or their parents what, if any pain relievers to take. The lips, cheeks and tongue may also become irritated for one to two weeks as they toughen and become accustomed to the surface of the braces. Overall, orthodontic discomfort is short-lived and easily managed.
Is there a way to straighten my teeth without conventional braces?
Yes, there is a "clear" alternative to braces called Invisalign. Invisalign straightens your teeth without wires and brackets, using a series of clear, customized, removable appliances called aligners. To see if Invisalign can help you achieve the smile you' ve always wanted, contact our office to make an appointment. If you want to learn more about Invisalign and how it works, please click on the following link:
Straight teeth. No braces.
Can my child play sports while wearing braces?
Yes. Wearing a protective mouthguard is advised while playing any contact sports. We will be happy to provide a special mouthguard that fits over your braces at no charge. Please let us know if you need one.
Will my braces interfere with playing musical instruments?
Plying wind or brass instruments, such as the trumpet, will clearly require some adaptation to braces. With practice and a period of adjustment, braces typically do not interfere with the playing of musical instruments. In addition, brace covers can be provided to prevent discomfort.
Why are retainers needed after orthodontic treatment and how long will I have to wear one?
After braces are removed, the teeth can shift out of position if they are not stabilized. Retainers provide that stabilization. They are designed to hold teeth in their corrected, ideal positions until the bones and gums adapt t the treatment changes. The longer you wear your retainer, the better your chances that your teeth will not relapse. We will review instructions for retainer wear following treatment.
For answers to any other frequently asked questions, please click on the link below:
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