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| • What is orthodontics? | ||
| • At what age should orthodontic treatment occur? | ||
| • What are some early warning signs of bite problems? | ||
| • Will braces hurt? | ||
| • What are the benefits of braces? | ||
| • What about the wisdom teeth (third molars)? | ||
| • What
is orthodontics? Orthodontics is a specialty branch of dentistry that deals with the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. Braces are appliances normally used to correct these problems. |
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| • At
what age should orthodontic treatment occur? Orthodontic treatment can be started at any age. Many orthodontic problems are easier to correct if detected at an early age before jaw growth is completed. Early treatment may mean that a patient can avoid severe problems and possible surgery. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child visit an orthodontist by the age of 7 or earlier if a problem is detected by parents, the family dentist or the child’s physician. |
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• Early or late loss of primary teeth. |
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| • Will
braces hurt? Most patients experience some discomfort and mild pressure the first week after the braces are placed, immediately after the braces are adjusted or after a wire change. This should not last more than a couple of days. Aspirin, non-aspirin pain reliever or ibuprofen can be used to ease the discomfort. |
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| • What
are the benefits of braces? Having straight teeth that fit together properly improves function therefore, your teeth and jaw joints can work more effectively. Straight teeth make it easier for you and your dental team to keep them clean. If you ever need a filling, crown or bridge, your dentist can usually do a better job if the teeth are aligned properly. The appearance of teeth and the face is improved. Having a pleasing smile improves self-esteem, confidence and a feeling of acceptance in our daily activities. |
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| • What
about the wisdom teeth (third molars)? Pain, incorrect position or insufficient space are all good reason to have wisdom teeth removed. |
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| • How
long will I have to undergo orthodontic treatment? It will vary for each patient and always depends on you particular problem. |
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| • Will
I still be able to play sports? Yes. It is recommended, however, that patients protect their smiles by wearing a mouth guard when participating in any sporting activity. Mouth guards are inexpensive, comfortable and come in a variety of colors. |
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| • Will
braces interfere with playing musical instruments? No. However, there may be an initial period of adjustment. Brace covers can be provided to prevent discomfort. |
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| • Can
you be too old for braces? No. Age is not a factor, however, there are advantages to treating young people while they are still growing. Approximately 25% of orthodontic patients in our office are adults. If you are an adult considering orthodontics, treatment has changed for the better in the last few years. Braces today, are more effective and comfortable than in the past. |
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| • Why
are retainers needed after orthodontic treatment? After braces are removed, teeth can shift out of position if they are not stabilized. Retainers provide the stabilization and are designed to hold teeth in their corrected, ideal positions until the bones and gums adapt to the treatment changes. Wearing retainers exactly as instructed is the best insurance and allows treatment improvements to last a lifetime. |
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| • Will
my speech be affected? For the first day or two after you have your braces, you will notice a change in speech however, soon they will become a part of you and any speech problem will fade. |
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