In today's world making a good first impression is important. Whether you are going on a job interview, sales call or a first date people draw conclusions about you by your appearance. One of the most important parts of how you look is your smile. There is a number of procedures you can get but what are they and are they right for your smile. Here are the facts about some of the most common treatments.
ORTHODONTICS:
This is the most common cosmetic procedure. Braces have become a normal part of childhood & today there are even many adults who were unable to correct their teeth as children that get braces to fix their smile.
A candidate for orthodontics is someone with teeth that are crooked, placed wrong in the mouth or has gaps between the teeth.
Treatment
The treatment is done by placing braces on the teeth and moving them to the correct location.
Time of treatment and cost
The average treatment is 1 - 2 years and can easily run $5,000 or more. The treatment can cause tenderness in the mouth, especially after the braces are tightened.
What is Orthodontics?
Orthodontics is the diagnosis, prevention & treatment of dental irregularities called “malocclusion”. Orthodontists use corrective appliances, such as braces to bring teeth, lips and jaws into proper alignment.
Why are Orthodontic Treatments important?
We all want to have a nice smile but there are medical reasons as well. Crooked or crowded teeth are hard to clean. This could contribute to tooth decay, gum disease and tooth loss. Other orthodontic problems can lead to abnormal wear of tooth surfaces, inefficient chewing function and excessive stress on the gums and the bone that supports teeth.
If left untreated these conditions can worsen and lead to more extensive care. Orthodontics can be costly but in the long run the treatment needed after putting off care for an extensive period can be much more expensive.
At what age can you have Orthodontic Treatment?
An orthodontic evaluation at any age is advisable if a dentist or physician notes a problem but the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children has an orthodontic screening by the age of seven. The reason for this is that orthodontic problems may be easier to treat if done early. Waiting until facial growth is nearly complete may make conditions more difficult to treat..
What are the most commonly treated orthodontic problems?
1. Crowding: This could cause teeth to thin or recede. It could also cause impacted teeth (Teeth that should come in but haven’t).
2. Overjet or protruding upper teeth: Upper teeth that protrude beyond normal contact with the lower jaw. These teeth are prone to damage.
3. Deep Overbite: When the lower incisor teeth bite to close or into the gum behind the upper teeth. This could lead to gum and bone as well as significant discomfort.
4. Open Bite: This is when the upper & lower front teeth don’t touch. This causes all the stress of chewing onto the back teeth and cause wear.
5. Spacing: Caused by missing or small teeth. The most common complaint is appearance.
6. Crossbite: The most common crossbite is when the upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth toward the tongue. This results in difficulty chewing.
7. Underbite or lower jaw protrusion: This is when the lower jaw is longer than the upper Causing the bottom teeth to point forward and a crossbit in the upper.
How is Treatment accomplished?
Special appliances or braces are made for you mouth. Some are removable, some not. You should follow directions given to you by your orthodontist.
Are there less noticeable braces?
Today’s braces are less noticeable than the ones of the past. There are clear and colored bans (depending on the patients preference. In some cases the braces can be banded behind the teeth. There is also the use of “Space age” materials that are more comfortable and shorten the treatment time.
Do teeth with braces need special care?
Yes there is special care needed.
1. Avoid hard or sticky foods.
2. Don’t chew on pens, pencils or fingernails
3. Take extra care in keeping teeth clean so the teeth and gums stay healthy.
How important is patient cooperation during orthodontic treatment?
It is very important for patients to follow all instructions and be diligent in cleaning. Not doing this could lead to longer treatment and other dental problems in the long run.
How long will orthodontic treatment take?
Some small treatments may only take a few months but the average treatment takes one to three years depending on how much work needs to be done. Cooperation by the patient and following instructions could shorten treatment.
How much does Orthodontic treatment cost?