Braces

Orthodontics

Moving Your Teeth to Correct Problems Is a Good Solution For All Ages

Moving your teeth around using braces or other forms of Orthodontic treatment
is often the best and most conservative way to correct smile problems.
Braces are also used to correct bite problems, "crooked" teeth, and skeletal
mis-alignments of the
jaws. Most orthodontists agree the best time to place braces are between the
ages of 8 and 15 when the head and mouth are still growing, but braces
can easily be placed on adults as well. There is really no upper age limit.

How It Works

There are three phases to any orthodontic treatment:

1. Diagnostic Phase: This is where the orthodontist or
dentist gathers information he or she needs to plan and implement the treatment.
There are various
xrays, impressions, and measurements which are made. The patient's oral
hygiene is
also evaluated. Braces don't make it any easier to keep teeth clean. There
is usually a fee associated with this phase.

2. Active Treatment Phase: Now the actual appliances, wires,
etc. are placed on the teeth or the removeable treatment appliances are supplied.
If the orthodontist
determines that the problem is related to a deficiency in the jaw bones,
he or she may recommend surgical treatment to correct the problem before orthodontic
treatment begins. The length of treatment can vary from a few months to a
few
years. Basically, gentle constant pressure is applied to the teeth. The bone,
which is a living tissue just like any other, responds by "getting out
of the way" and filling in behind. Gradually, the teeth move into their
new alignment. The type of braces used may vary depending on
the particular case and the needs of the patient. Lingual braces go on the
backs
of the teeth
and are nearly invisible. Other brackets and bands may be made of plastic
or some other esthetically colored substance so they are not as obvious.

Teeth may feel sore for a short time following adjustment visits and wires
and brackets do occasionally come loose, but the overall experience is not
that difficult. During treatment, extra care should be taken to keep the
teeh and gums clean and healthy. Regular check-ups are mandatory to avoid
cavities forming around the brackets and bands.

3. Retention Phase: Teeth have a tendency to "snap back" when they
are released from orthodontic pressure. For this reason, orthodontists hold
the teeth in position for a time after active treatment. This time, again,
varies, but most feel that the longer the retention, the better the result.

Braces today are not as obvious as they used to be. Some can even be worn
on the inside where they don't show at all and...they're definitely not
just for children. More and more adults are seeking the orthodontist's
care as they learn the benefits of teeth that mesh smoothly and look great.

One of the latest trends in orthodontics is Invisalign. This technique uses
a number of removeable, computer-milled trays to gradually nudge your teeth
into position.

The cost of orthodontics varies widely depending on the severity of the case
and what special techniques are used. While there is some discomfort associated
with braces, It is usually minimal and is more than compensated for by the
end result.