About Braces
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Why Braces?
Braces not only give you a beautiful smile but the health of the teeth and gums may improve also. Crooked and crowded teeth are hard to clean and maintain. This can result in tooth decay, 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, or misalignment of the jaw joints. Treatment by our orthodontist can be less costly than the additional care required to treat 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, and smile more too!.
Braces for All Ages
Adults
It's never too late for a beautiful smile. Orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age, and adults especially appreciate the benefits of an attractive smile. Adult orthodontic treatment has become increasingly popular to achieve a gorgeous smile with healthier teeth and gums.
Kids
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that it's best for the orthodontist to see children by age 7 to advise if orthodontic treatment is required and the best time for that patient to be treated. 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. Early treatment can also regulate the width of the upper and lower dental arches, gain space for permanent teeth, minimize the need for permanent tooth extractions, reduce likelihood of impacted permanent teeth, correct thumb-sucking, and abnormal swallowing or speech problems. In other words, early treatment can simplify later treatment.
How Orthodontic Treatment Works
Orthodontic appliances can be made of metal, ceramic or high-tech plastics. They may be removable or they may be directly bonded to the teeth. By placing a constant, gentle force in a carefully controlled direction, braces move teeth to a better position. This is a great time to wear braces! Gone are the days when a metal band with a bracket was placed around each tooth. You can choose brackets that are clear or metallic color. You can choose the color of the ties that hold the wire in brackets. Wires are also less noticeable than they used to be and the latest materials move teeth faster with less discomfort to you.
Duration of Treatment
Treatment time typically ranges from one to three years, depending on the growth of the patient's mouth and face and the severity of the problem. Every one grows at different rates and will respond variously to orthodontic treatment, so the time to completion may differ from the original estimate.
The patient's diligent use of any prescribed appliances and good hygiene are important factors in achieving the most efficient and desirable results. Interceptive, or early treatment procedures, may take as few as six months.