You might be thinking of getting braces because you want to be more attractive or appear more youthful. Some people get braces in order to improve their self-confidence, so they won't feel embarrassed to smile. Or maybe you had a discussion with your dentist concerning the benefits of healthy teeth and proper jaw alignment.
Crooked and crowded teeth are hard to clean and maintain. This can result in tooth decay, create or worsen gum disease and lead to tooth loss.
Other orthodontic problems can contribute to abnormal wear of tooth surfaces, inefficient chewing function, excessive stress on gum tissue and the bone that supports the teeth, and misalignment of the jaw joints. These can lead to chronic headaches and face or neck pain. This is referred to as Temporal Mandibular dysfunction (TMD).
Treatment by an orthodontist can be less costly than the additional care required treating dental problems arising as a result of orthodontic problems.
For most people, a beautiful smile is the most obvious benefit of orthodontics. After your braces come off, you’ll feel more self-confident.
For Children & Teens
While there is no exact age for children to begin orthodontic treatment, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends visiting the orthodontist around age seven. The first permanent molars and incisors have usually come in by that time and crossbites, crowding and other problems can be evaluated.When treatment is begun early, the orthodontist can:
- guide the growth of the jaw and guide incoming permanent teeth
- regulate the width of the upper and lower dental arches
- gain space for permanent teeth
- avoid the need for permanent tooth extractions
- reduce likelihood of impacted permanent teeth
- correct thumb-sucking and
- eliminate abnormal swallowing or speech problems
In other words, early treatment can simplify later treatment.
The number of adults seeking orthodontic treatment is on the rise. At this point, 1 out of every 4 orthodontic patients is an adult.
The way teeth move is basically the same in adults as in children.
Crowding, spaces between teeth, large overbites and underbites, protruding front teeth and teeth in abnormal positions are problems that may be corrected in adults by orthodontic treatment. These may also manifest themselves in the form of orofacial pain and include changes in the anatomy of the jaw joint, commonly referred to as Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD).
However, because an adult’s facial bones are no longer growing, certain problems may not be resolved with braces alone. Sometimes, jaw surgery is required to obtain the most ideal result.
The health of the gums and the bone underneath them is quite important in adult treatment. Bone loss can sometimes limit the amount and direction of tooth movement that is possible. It may sometimes be necessary to have an assessment by a periodontist (gum specialist) before, during and/or after orthodontic treatment. You will be informed if you need to see such a specialist.
Our practice recognizes that adults and children have different needs, and require a different level of attention and care. We strive to provide you with that.