What is orthodontics?
Most people think of braces and straightening crooked teeth when they think of orthodontics. That's part of it, but there's really much more to orthodontics than creating beautiful smiles.
Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that specializes in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. The technical term for these problems is "malocclusion," which means "bad bite."
The practice of orthodontics requires advanced training and professional skill in the design, application, and control of corrective appliances (braces) to bring teeth, lips, and jaws into proper alignment and achieve facial balance.
Why do people choose to have braces during adulthood?
Many of the adults you see in braces are being treated for orthodontic problems that were not corrected when they were children. They realize that improving the health of their mouth and the attractiveness of their smile and facial appearance often results in changes for the better in their personal, social, and professional lives.
I see quite a few adults with braces. Is this a growing trend?
Yes, we're observing a growing number of adults in our practice who are taking advantage of the benefits gained from orthodontics. We expect this trend to continue as more adults become aware of modern orthodontic therapy, cosmetic braces, and gentler wires. Because of this trend toward adult orthodontics, we designed our offices with comfortable adult treatment areas.
What are the new technical advances in orthodontics?
Porcelain technology has produced small tooth-colored brackets that are barely noticeable. Specially alloyed wires are more comfortable, can speed up treatment, and may decrease the number of necessary appointments. Also, in selected cases, orthodontics combined with advanced surgical techniques can dramatically improve facial balance after growth is completed. This can create a more pleasing and often a more youthful profile. Invisalign® is another treatment option for some patients allowing them to wear a series of clear aligners as opposed to brackets and wires.
Am I too old to have braces?
For those who can benefit from orthodontics, age is not a factor. You are never too old. In fact, many people in their mature or senior years receive orthodontic treatment as part of a comprehensive strategy to replace missing teeth or increase the longevity of their natural teeth.
Is it really worth it at my age?
The best answers come from adults who have completed orthodontic therapy. Comments include "I would gladly do it again," "I'm happy with the results," "I smile more," "I've become more outgoing," and "I feel so much better about myself now." These are men and women who take responsibility for their own well-being and know that their best investment is in themselves.
How long does orthodontic treatment take?
Every orthodontic problem is a little different. In general, active treatment time in braces ranges from one to three years. The actual time depends on a number of factors such as, the complexity of your problem and your cooperation.
Should I continue to see my general dentist while in braces?
Definitely! It's very important that you continue to have regular dental checkups to prevent or determine dental decay and to monitor the health of the supporting structures. Periodic professional dental cleanings by your dentist or dental hygienist will maintain overall dental health and prevent dental disease.
How will I benefit from straight teeth?
Straight teeth make for healthy smiles. That's because properly positioned teeth are much easier to maintain and clean than those that are crowded and crooked. Having straight teeth will help you avoid not only tooth decay, but eventual gum disease and tooth loss. Correction of your bite helps with improved chewing and speech. It also plays an important role in reducing wear on your teeth and stress on the supporting bone and jaw joints. That means your teeth will have a better chance of lasting a lifetime. Another thing that people are often not aware of is that misalignment of the jaw joints can result in chronic headaches or pain in the face or neck. Proper orthodontic care can help you avoid these problems.
How does orthodontic care improve self-image?
As with a healthy smile, the benefits of an attractive smile are life long. Scientific research has repeatedly shown the mouth and face to be focal points of communication and social interaction. Appearance has been related to interpersonal popularity, social behaviors, self-expectation, personal style, and self-image. There can be little doubt that an attractive facial appearance and smile can improve your quality of life in many dimensions. It can influence your social and career success as well as improve your general attitude toward life. Healthy smiles and attractive smiles affect one another. People of all ages who feel good look better, and people who look their best feel better.