ORTHODONTICS

Why Orthodontic Treatment?

Orthodontic treatment is part of a comprehensive dental health care plan. It enhances your oral health and creates beautiful smile. Teeth can last a lifetime with good oral care. People with crowded or crooked teeth are said to have a "bad bite." The teeth may look straight but the upper and lower teeth may not fit properly. It is harder to clean crooked teeth and this could lead to tooth decay, gum disease and tooth loss. Orthodontic treatment straightens the teeth and creates a “good bite ” where the upper and lower teeth fit properly. It is easier to clean, chew and speak with a good bite.

Who can undergo Orthodontic Treatment?

Both children and adults can undergo orthodontic treatments. Orthodontic treatments can be started as early as age eight. Recently many adults are opting to undergo orthodontic treatments at age 40+ too. Important criteria for orthodontic treatment is viable healthy bone for tooth movement. The orthodontist will select the type of appliance based on the patient’s age and treatment needs.

Types of Orthodontic Treatment

There are different types of orthodontic treatment to correct a bad bite

Braces

Braces move the teeth by applying pressure. The braces consists of small brackets cemmented to the teeth, connected by wire and rubber bands. The wire is regularly tightened by the orthodontist to gradually shift the teeth and jaw. The brackets could be metal or clear ceramic (tooth colored). Brackets can also be placed on the back of the teeth to make them less visible ( Incognito™ Braces)

• Metal Braces

Metal braces are made of sturdy stainless steel. In the type of metal braces we use, the brackets are smaller and easy to clean.

•Ceramic Braces (Clear)

Ceramic braces are made of ceramic material. The brackets are translucent and blends with the natural tooth color. They are strong and resist stain and discoloration throughout the treatment

• Hidden Braces (Incognito™ Lingual Braces)

Hidden braces are not visible from outside, the metal brackets are placed on the backs of the teeth.

In some complex cases, the upper or lower jaw sticks out causing uneven bite. Surgery may be needed to align the upper and lower jaws.

How Does Orthodontic Treatment Work ?

Many different types of appliances, both fixed and removable, are used to help move teeth, retrain muscles and affect the growth of the jaws. These appliances work by placing gentle pressure on the teeth and jaws. The severity of your problem will determine which orthodontic approach is likely to be the most effective.

If you recognize any of these signs in your child or yourself, call us.

• Early or late loss of baby teeth
• Difficulty chewing or biting
• Mouth breathing
• Sucking the thumb or fingers
• Crowded, misplaced or blocked-out teeth
• Jaws that shift, make sounds, protrude or are recessed
• Speech difficulty
• Biting the cheek or biting into the roof of the mouth
• Protruding teeth
• Upper and lower teeth do not mesh well
• Grinding or clenching of teeth
• Inability to comfortably close lips
• Large gap between teeth

The benefits of orthodontic treatment include a healthier mouth, a more pleasing appearance, and teeth that are more likely to last a lifetime.