what is an orthodontist?

All orthodontists are dentists,but only less than 10 percent of dentists are
orthodontists.Orthodontists,must successfully complete an additional two-to
three-year residency program of advanced education in orthodontics.Only dentists
who have successfully completed this specialty education may call themselves
orthodontists.

what are the most commonly treated orthodontic problems?

what causes orthodontic problems?

Most malocclusions are inherited,but some are acquired.Inherited problems
include crowding,too much space betwen teeth,extra or missing teeth,etc.
Acquired malocclusions can be caused by trauma,finger sucking,airway
obstructions by tonsils and adenoids,premature loss of teeth,etc.Many of these
problems affect not only the alignment of the teeth but facial development and
appearance as well.

why is orthodontic treatment important?

When left untreated,many orthodontic problems become worse.Waiting all the
permanent teeth have come in,or until facial growth is complete,may make
correction more difficult.Orthodontic treatment make teeth easier to clean,
improve growth,correct bad habits,brings a better appearance of teeth and
face,improves confidence and self-esteem.

at what age can people have orthodontic treatment?

An orthodontic evaluation at any age is advisable if a parent,family dentist
or physician has noted a problem.Children and adults can both benefit from
orthodontics.Children should have an orthodontic screening no later than 7 !

what are the diagnostic records?

Diagnostic records are made to document the patient's orthodontic problem
and to help determine the best course of treatment.Complete diagnostic
records include a medical/dental history,clinical examination,plaster study,
models of the teeth,photos of the patient's face and teeth,X-rays.From the
records,a custom treatment plan is created for each patient.

how is treatment accomplished?

Braces,are prescribed and designed by the orthodontist according to the
problem being treated.They may be removable or fixed.They may be made of
metal,ceramic or plastic.By placing a constant force in a controlled direction,
braces can slowly move teeth to a new desirable position.Orthopedic appliances,
use carefully directed forces to guide the growth and development of jaws in
children and teenagers.

how do braces feel?

Most people have some discomfort after their braces are on or when adjusted
during treatment but this is short-lived and easily managed with whatever pain
medication patients might usualy take for a headache.

how long will orthodontic treatment take?

The treatment time depends on the growth of the patient's mouth and face,
the cooperation of the patient and the severity of the problem.In general,
active treatment time with braces ranges from one to three years.Interceptive,
or early treatment procedures,may take only a few months.

do teeth with braces need special care?

The orthodontist will teach patients how to best care for their teeth,gums
and braces during treatment.

how important is patient cooperation during orthodontic treatment?

Successful orthodontic treatment is a "two-way street" that requires a
consistent,cooperative effort by both the orthodontist and patient.