Frequently Asked Questions About Orthodontic Treatment
Q: What is Orthodontics?
A: Orthodontics is a specialty field of dentistry focused on correcting misalignment of the teeth and jaw using braces and other orthodontic appliances.
Q: What is the difference between a Dentist and an Orthodontist?
A: All orthodontists are dentists, but not all dentists are orthodontists. Orthodontists receive several years of additional graduate training to specialize in correcting orthodontic problems such as crowded or crooked teeth, overbite, underbite, and TMJ (temporomandibular joint) problems.
Q: Why is it important to choose a Board Certified Orthodontist?
A: Board certification requires that the orthodontist demonstrate a continuous commitment to the highest standard of care by completing rigorous written and clinical exams and peer review, every 10 years. Only half of all orthodontists have achieved this. Learn more at americanboardortho.com
Q: What are Some Possible Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment?
A: By correcting misaligned teeth, we can help you achieve the best possible smile, a comfortable feeling bite which functions normally, and teeth which are easy to brush, floss and keep clean.
Q: What are some signs that braces may be needed?
A: Spacing or crowding which affect the appearance of your smile, misaligned teeth, an uncomfortable bite, and sore jaw muscles are indications that orthodontic treatment may be needed.
Q: What is Phase I and Phase II treatment?
A: Phase I or Early Treatment may be used to correct a narrow upper dental arch or narrow upper jaw, or a few permanent teeth which are very far out of place. Some baby teeth may still be present.
Phase II Treatment is offered when the remaining permanent teeth have come in.
Q: What's the Best Age to Visit the Orthodontist?
A: Age 8 is typical for a first visit, but a dentist may recommend an orthodontic evaluation at any age if he/she finds misalignment that may require orthodontic treatment to correct.
Q: Would an adult patient benefit from orthodontics?
A: Orthodontic treatment is offered for adults who desire a significant improvement in the appearance, comfort or function of their teeth. Braces can provide adults the same benefits that children and teens receive, although treatment may take longer.
Q: How does Orthodontic Treatment Work?
A: Braces or other orthodontic appliances are used to apply gentle, carefully controlled pressure on the teeth, which moves them slowly to the desired position in the mouth. In most cases, a permanent retainer wire is installed to keep teeth properly aligned once treatment is finished.
Q: What is TMJ and how is it treated?
A: TMJ (temporomandibular “jaw” joint) problems can have many causes, including misaligned teeth. Orthodontic treatment may improve or correct this.
Q: What are Braces?
A: Braces are dental appliances used to correct misaligned teeth. They are made up of bands, stainless steel or ceramic brackets temporarily attached to the teeth, and the orthodontic wire that rests on them. The wire applies the pressure that moves your teeth.
Q: How Should I Take Care of My Teeth if I'm Wearing Braces or a Retainer?
A: Continue to brush your teeth as normal, and floss daily. Whenever possible, brush after every meal. You may wish to avoid sticky or chewy foods which may easily get stuck in your braces. Visit your dentist every six months as normal while wearing braces.
Q: If I Get Braces, How Long do I Have to Wear Them?
A: Time in orthodontic treatment depends on how much tooth movement needs to be done to achieve your best possible smile.
Q: Do Braces Hurt?
A: You won't feel any pain during the procedure, but your teeth and gums will probably be a little sore for a few days afterwards. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication such as acetaminophen (brand name Tylenol) may help relieve the discomfort.
Q: Do I Need to Brush My Teeth More Often if I Have Braces?
A: Brushing your teeth after each meal will help keep your teeth, gums, and mouth healthy and clean. A thorough brushing and flossing at the end of the day is particularly important.
Q: If I Have Braces, do I Still Need Dental Checkups Every Six Months?
A: Yes, continue to see your dentist on his/her recommended schedule for best dental health.
Q: Will My Braces Interfere with My School Activities Like Sports, Playing an Instrument, or Singing?
A: No, wearing braces will not prevent you from participating in any of your school activities. Playing an instrument or a contact sport may require an adjustment period (typically about 2 weeks) when you first get your braces, and again when they are removed. It’s advisable to schedule your orthodontic appointments around your important performances, even if voice is your instrument. A soft mouth guard may be recommended for those participating in contact sports.
A: Orthodontics is a specialty field of dentistry focused on correcting misalignment of the teeth and jaw using braces and other orthodontic appliances.
Q: What is the difference between a Dentist and an Orthodontist?
A: All orthodontists are dentists, but not all dentists are orthodontists. Orthodontists receive several years of additional graduate training to specialize in correcting orthodontic problems such as crowded or crooked teeth, overbite, underbite, and TMJ (temporomandibular joint) problems.
Q: Why is it important to choose a Board Certified Orthodontist?
A: Board certification requires that the orthodontist demonstrate a continuous commitment to the highest standard of care by completing rigorous written and clinical exams and peer review, every 10 years. Only half of all orthodontists have achieved this. Learn more at americanboardortho.com
Q: What are Some Possible Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment?
A: By correcting misaligned teeth, we can help you achieve the best possible smile, a comfortable feeling bite which functions normally, and teeth which are easy to brush, floss and keep clean.
Q: What are some signs that braces may be needed?
A: Spacing or crowding which affect the appearance of your smile, misaligned teeth, an uncomfortable bite, and sore jaw muscles are indications that orthodontic treatment may be needed.
Q: What is Phase I and Phase II treatment?
A: Phase I or Early Treatment may be used to correct a narrow upper dental arch or narrow upper jaw, or a few permanent teeth which are very far out of place. Some baby teeth may still be present.
Phase II Treatment is offered when the remaining permanent teeth have come in.
Q: What's the Best Age to Visit the Orthodontist?
A: Age 8 is typical for a first visit, but a dentist may recommend an orthodontic evaluation at any age if he/she finds misalignment that may require orthodontic treatment to correct.
Q: Would an adult patient benefit from orthodontics?
A: Orthodontic treatment is offered for adults who desire a significant improvement in the appearance, comfort or function of their teeth. Braces can provide adults the same benefits that children and teens receive, although treatment may take longer.
Q: How does Orthodontic Treatment Work?
A: Braces or other orthodontic appliances are used to apply gentle, carefully controlled pressure on the teeth, which moves them slowly to the desired position in the mouth. In most cases, a permanent retainer wire is installed to keep teeth properly aligned once treatment is finished.
Q: What is TMJ and how is it treated?
A: TMJ (temporomandibular “jaw” joint) problems can have many causes, including misaligned teeth. Orthodontic treatment may improve or correct this.
Q: What are Braces?
A: Braces are dental appliances used to correct misaligned teeth. They are made up of bands, stainless steel or ceramic brackets temporarily attached to the teeth, and the orthodontic wire that rests on them. The wire applies the pressure that moves your teeth.
Q: How Should I Take Care of My Teeth if I'm Wearing Braces or a Retainer?
A: Continue to brush your teeth as normal, and floss daily. Whenever possible, brush after every meal. You may wish to avoid sticky or chewy foods which may easily get stuck in your braces. Visit your dentist every six months as normal while wearing braces.
Q: If I Get Braces, How Long do I Have to Wear Them?
A: Time in orthodontic treatment depends on how much tooth movement needs to be done to achieve your best possible smile.
Q: Do Braces Hurt?
A: You won't feel any pain during the procedure, but your teeth and gums will probably be a little sore for a few days afterwards. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication such as acetaminophen (brand name Tylenol) may help relieve the discomfort.
Q: Do I Need to Brush My Teeth More Often if I Have Braces?
A: Brushing your teeth after each meal will help keep your teeth, gums, and mouth healthy and clean. A thorough brushing and flossing at the end of the day is particularly important.
Q: If I Have Braces, do I Still Need Dental Checkups Every Six Months?
A: Yes, continue to see your dentist on his/her recommended schedule for best dental health.
Q: Will My Braces Interfere with My School Activities Like Sports, Playing an Instrument, or Singing?
A: No, wearing braces will not prevent you from participating in any of your school activities. Playing an instrument or a contact sport may require an adjustment period (typically about 2 weeks) when you first get your braces, and again when they are removed. It’s advisable to schedule your orthodontic appointments around your important performances, even if voice is your instrument. A soft mouth guard may be recommended for those participating in contact sports.
