| Q. |
What is an orthodontist? |
| A. |
An orthodontist is a dental specialist who, after completion of a four-year dental school program, also completes a 2-3 year residency at an accredited dental school. As orthodontic specialists, our practice is limited to the prevention and correction of irregularities in the teeth and jaws and other deformities of the face caused by these conditions.
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| Q. |
What are the benefits of orthodontic treatment?
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| A. |
In addition to a nice smile, we are also concerned with the health of your teeth and gums. Crooked teeth and bad bites can seriously affect general oral health.
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| Q. |
What are the possible results of untreated problems?
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| A. |
Depending on the severity of the case, untreated orthodontic problems may increase the risk for tooth decay, gum disease, jaw joint problems, and loss of teeth. Protruding teeth can be easily chipped or damaged. An untreated malocclusion (or “bad bite”) may also play a role in one’s self image. You naturally feel better when you look better, and a pleasing appearance is a vital asset to one’s self-confidence and self-esteem.
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| Q. |
What is the best age to first see the orthodontist?
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| A. |
The rule of thumb is to see an orthodontist as soon as a possible problem is noticed. It’s a big advantage if we see younger patients for the first time at about age 7 or 8. This is the opportune time to begin a guidance program. Sometimes removal of baby teeth can prevent improper eruption of permanent teeth.
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| Q. |
Am I too old for orthodontics?
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| A. |
Orthodontics is for adults too. Since the biological process in tooth movement is the same in both adults and children, you’re never too old to be at your best. About 20% of our practice is adults, and the number is growing.
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| Q. |
What is jaw surgery?
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| A. |
Jaw (or orthognathic) surgery involves the combined effort of the orthodontist and an oral surgeon. In some cases, the jaw bones are positioned in a way that makes it difficult, if not impossible, to obtain good results with orthodontics alone. The most common problems corrected with jaw surgery include a protruding upper jaw (which sometimes causes a “gummy smile”), a protruding lower jaw, or a recessed lower jaw. Dramatic improvements in facial features, as well as straight teeth, can be obtained when surgery is done in conjunction with orthodontic treatment.
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| Q. |
How frequent are my appointments?
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| A. |
After the braces are on, appointments are scheduled every four to ten weeks. Most appointments last about 30 minutes.
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| Q. |
How long will I have to wear braces?
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| A. |
The average treatment time for children is about two years while adults may take slightly longer. The exact treatment time is dependent on many variables such as patient cooperation, difficulty of the case, keeping regular appointments, etc.
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