Orthodontics (also referred to as dentofacial orthopedics) is a specialized form of dentistry focusing on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial abnormalities.
An orthodontist is a dental specialist who has received two to three years of additional training and experience. Your orthodontist is able to straighten teeth, correct misaligned jaw structure, and improve the function of your smile.
If you want to improve the look and feel of your smile, then any age can be a great age to see the orthodontist. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children first visit an orthodontist around the age of seven; however, orthodontic treatment is not exclusive to children and teens, with about one in every five orthodontic patients being over the age of 21. Whether you’re considering treatment for yourself or for a child, any time is a good time to visit the orthodontist.
Your first visit to our office will be about an hour, in which we will discuss any questions or concerns you may have about your teeth, your health, or anything else. We will also:
Braces are used by your orthodontist to help you improve the look and feel of your smile. There are several different types of braces to choose from, including:
The amount of time spent in braces will vary depending on the individual patient, because every smile responds differently to treatment. Treatment times can take anywhere between six and 30 months, but most standard treatments take about 22 months.
Playing an instrument or a contact sport may require some adjustment when you first get your braces, but wearing braces will not stop you from participating in any of your school activities. If you play a contact sport, it is recommended that you wear a mouthguard to protect your braces or appliance.
The space available for the front teeth does not increase as you grow. In most people, after the permanent molars erupt, the space available for the front teeth decreases with age.
Braces do not often hurt though you may feel a small amount of discomfort for a couple days as your teeth, gums, cheeks, and mouth get used to your new braces.
With braces, you should brush your teeth at least three times a day to keep your teeth, gums, and mouth healthy and clean. Brushing regularly will help remove any food that may be caught between the braces. You should also floss daily to get in between your braces where your brush isn’t able to reach. Your orthodontist can show you how to properly brush and floss once your braces are placed.
Appointments are scheduled according to each patient’s needs. Most patients in braces will be seen every 5 to 8 weeks. If there are specific situations that require more frequent monitoring, we will schedule appointments accordingly.
Appointments are scheduled according to each patient’s needs. Most patients in braces will be seen every 5 to 8 weeks. If there are specific situations that require more frequent monitoring, we will schedule appointments accordingly.
For braces, always remember to brush your teeth after every meal and floss at least once a day.
– Make sure to use toothpaste that contains fluoride, and ask your orthodontist or family dentist if you need
a fluoride rinse. This will help prevent cavities!
– You will also keep your retainer clean, by brushing it gently with a toothbrush and toothpaste.
– Soaking your retainer 1x/week in diluted mouthwash will help keep your retainer clean.
During your treatment, we will review with you a comprehensive list of foods to avoid. Some of those foods include: ice, hard candy, hard foods (corn on the cob), foods with a lot of sugar, sticky/chewy foods (caramel, gum, taffy), and raw vegetables.
Yes! In fact, it’s even more important that patients in orthodontic treatment visit their dentist regularly, at least two times each year. With braces, food may be caught in places that your toothbrush can’t reach. This causes bacteria to build up that can lead to cavities, gingivitis, and gum disease. Your dentist will work closely with your orthodontist to make sure that your teeth stay clean and healthy while wearing braces.