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At what age should orthodontic treatment occur?Orthodontic treatment can be started at any age. Many orthodontic problems are easier to correct if detected at an early age before jaw growth has slowed. Early treatment may mean that a patient can avoid surgery and more serious complications. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child first visit an orthodontist by age 7 or earlier if a problem is detected by parents, the family dentist, or the child's physician. What is Phase I and Phase II treatment?Phase I, or early interceptive treatment, is limited orthodontic treatment (i.e. expander or partial braces) before all of the permanent teeth have erupted. Such treatment can occur between the ages of six and ten. This treatment is sometimes recommended to make more space for developing teeth, correction of crossbites, overbites, underbites, or harmful oral habits. Phase II treatment is a full set of braces applied later (age 11-14) for someone who had Phase I. Phase I is not always necessary; one comprehensive phase may be all that is needed instead of two phases. Would an adult patient benefit from orthodontics?Orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age. Everyone wants a beautiful and healthy smile. Twenty to twenty-five percent of orthodontic patients today are adults. How does orthodontic treatment work?Braces use steady gentle pressure to gradually move teeth into their proper positions. The brackets that are placed on your teeth and the archwire that connects them are the main components. When the archwire is placed into the brackets, it tries to return to its original shape. As it does so, it applies pressure to move your teeth to their new, more ideal positions. How long does orthodontic treatment take?Treatment times vary on a case-by-case basis, but the average time is from one to two-and-a-half years. Actual treatment time can be affected by rate of growth and severity of the problem. Treatment length is also dependent upon patient compliance. Maintaining good oral hygiene and keeping regular appointments are important in keeping treatment time on schedule. Do braces hurt?The placement of bands and brackets on your teeth does not hurt. Once your braces are placed and connected with the archwires you may feel some soreness of your teeth for one to four days. Your lips and cheeks may need one to two weeks to get used to the braces on your teeth. Will braces interfere with playing sports?Mouthguards are inexpensive and can be purchased at any sporting goods store. Ones that are moldable with warm water are recommended so they can be altered as the teeth move. Should I see my general dentist while I have braces?Yes, you should continue to see your general dentist every six months for cleanings and dental checkups. |
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