What is Orthodontics?

Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that specializes in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. The technical term for these problems is "malocclusion," which means "bad bite." The practice of orthodontics requires professional skill in the design, application and control of corrective appliances (braces) to bring teeth, lips and jaws into proper alignment and achieve facial balance.

Why use a Specialist?

Orthodontic treatment can make profound changes in a patient’s dental and facial appearance, and in their ability to chew and function normally. These changes are often permanent and should not be taken lightly. An orthodontic specialist is uniquely qualified to provide your orthodontic treatment, having at least two years of continuous university training (residency program) after graduating from dental school. Your orthodontist should be a member of the American Association of Orthodontists.

What is the American Association of Orthodontists?

The American Association of Orthodontists is a professional association of educationally qualified orthodontic specialists dedicated to advancing the art and science of orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics, improving the health of the public by promoting quality orthodontic care, and supporting the successful practice of orthodontics. The members must meet the educational requirements of the Council on Dental Education of the American Dental Association for a specialist, which are currently at least two academic years of advanced education in an accredited program. The American Dental Association has recognized that "Specialists are necessary to protect the public, nurture the art and science of dentistry and improve the quality of care." Members of the American Association of Orthodontists have completed the advanced education required by the American Dental Association to permit announcement as specialists in orthodontics.

How do I know if my child is in need of orthodontic treatment?

It is often difficult for you to determine if treatment is necessary because there are many problems that can occur even though the front teeth look straight. Also, there are some problems that look serious and complex which will resolve on their own. Asking your general dentist is good starting point, but we are your best resource since orthodontics is all we do. We would be happy to see you or your child and discuss your individual needs.

What are the early symptoms of orthodontic problems?

Although determining if treatment is necessary is difficult for you to assess, the following symptoms may help in prompting you to seek our orthodontic advice.

Ask your child to open their mouth and let you look at their teeth. If you see any signs of crooked teeth, gaps between your child's teeth or overlapping teeth, your child may need orthodontic treatment.

Ask your child to bite all the way down, but keeping their lips open so you can see their teeth. Do the front top teeth line up with the bottom? Do the top teeth protrude out away from the bottom teeth? Do the top front teeth cover more than 50% of the bottom teeth? Are the top teeth behind the bottom teeth? All these are indicators of potential orthodontic problems.

Look at the alignment of your child's jaw. Does the jaw shift off center when your child bites down? If you see any misalignment or shifting of the jaw, your child may have a jaw problem that requires early orthodontic intervention.

These are only some of the obvious symptoms of orthodontic problems that you may recognize.

What age should my child be seen by an Orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that your child be evaluated at age seven. While the majority of children need no treatment this early, early detection of serious orthodontic problems is important in order to take early corrective action and avoid more difficult treatment later.

Can you be too old for braces?

No, age is not a factor, only the health of your gums and bone which support your teeth. About 25% of our orthodontic patients are adults and that number is growing!

Can I still have braces if I have missing teeth ?

Yes. When teeth are missing, adjacent teeth will drift into the empty space. This will cause a functional, esthetic or periodontal problem. Orthodontic treatment will correct and prevent these problems from happening and will also provide proper alignment for your dentist to replace the missing teeth.

Questions about Orthodontic Treatment

What is Phase I (Interceptive) Treatment and Phase II treatment?

Phase I (Interceptive) Treatment is reserved for more severe orthodontic problems. When necessary, it usually starts when the child has their permanent front teeth (incisors) present, along with several baby teeth. This is usually about the age of seven or eight. The goal of Phase I treatment is to intercept a severe orthodontic problem early in order to reduce it or eliminate it. These problems include jaw growth problems, crossbites and severe crowding. Most Phase I patients require a Phase II treatment later in life in order to achieve an ideal bite.

Phase II treatment usually occurs a number of years later, when all of the permanent teeth have grown in. This most commonly occurs at the age of 11 or 12. The goal of Phase II treatment is to achieve ideal dental alignment and a good bite with all of the permanent teeth. It is important to remember that the total time and cost of the two-phase treatment (phase I plus phase II) is always greater than postponing all treatment until all baby teeth are lost.

What is Full or Comprehensive Orthodontic Treatment?

This is another name for orthodontic treatment in the permanent dentition when a Phase I treatment was not performed.

Do all children need a Phase I treatment?

Absolutely not! Only certain problems require early intervention. Most children can wait until their baby teeth are gone.

What is extraction and non-extraction therapy, and what are the advantages and disadvantages of each?

Extraction therapy is an established orthodontic technique where selected permanent teeth are removed to make room for the other teeth. This is recommended if the teeth are severely crowded and/ or protruded. Extraction therapy is in contrast to non-extraction therapy where all of the teeth can be made to fit correctly in the mouth.

Other frequently asked questions

What are the different types of braces?

1. Mini-Diamond Braces: Stainless steel braces that are the most popular with kids and teenagers. Different color ligature ties can be used and the colors can be changed at each appointment. These braces are smaller than ever before.
2. Self-ligating Braces: The ultimate high-technology appliance. Their revolutionary design eliminates friction between the wire and the brace, allowing teeth to move easier and faster. With no friction to overcome, lighter forces can be used to move the teeth. Treatment times are reduced and patients report less discomfort due the lighter forces used. Colored ties cannot be used with this appliance.
3. Translucent, clear braces: Made of monocrystalline, clear ceramic, these braces are very esthetic. They are hardly noticeable until you get very close to the person wearing them. Because they are ceramic, though, they may break more easily than steel braces. They are used only on the front teeth that show the most.
4. Invisalign System: A series of clear aligners that fit over the teeth and gradually straighten them. No braces or wires are used. Effective for mild to moderate orthodontic problems. For patients who are through growing and have all their teeth fully erupted.

What are lingual braces?

Lingual braces are placed behind a patient's teeth. They were invented many years ago, before the advent of esthetic braces. Lingual braces are rarely used anymore. Generally, lingual braces are more uncomfortable than standard braces. In addition, lingual orthodontic treatment takes much longer and is much more costly. In addition, some people have trouble talking with lingual braces.

Is orthodontic care expensive?

Considering the time spent and the complexity of treatment, orthodontics should be considered the best health care value available today. When orthodontic treatment is implemented at the proper time, treatment is often less costly than the dental care required to treat the more serious problems that can develop years later.

Orthodontic fees have not increased as fast as many other consumer products. Financing is usually available and our office offers several payment programs that will meet your needs. In addition, many insurance plans now include orthodontics.