Orthodontics

Braces is not only for teenagers.  However, most of the patients with braces are in their teenage years.  When braces is not a convenient option Invisalign is an excellent alternative.

Years ago, braces were almost hideous to look at.  They were large bands made out of metal which were then placed around each single tooth (think of one thin ring around each of your fingers!).  Now-a-days, instead of placing bands around the teeth, brackets are bonded on to the teeth.  The brackets are very small making cleaning them and the teeth easier.  The brackets are made out of either metal (metallic brackets) or ceramic (or clear brackets).  These new ceramic brackets are almost invisible.

Most orthodontic problems in the making can be detected while the child is still very young (6-8 years of age).  It used to be advocated to wait 'til the child enters their teenage years to pursue orthodontic treatment.  No longer is this the recommended treatment.  By getting a head start in treating the child early (often referred to as Phase I treatment) later treatment will often not be as lengthy and the results obtained will be more permanent.

Following are some (not all) of the reasons why braces are necessary:

1.  Crowded teeth meaning the teeth are too bunched up against each other.
2.  Teeth that stick out too far (often referred to as "buck teeth").
3.  Excessive overbite meaning the upper front teeth cover too much of the lower front teeth.
4.  Cross bite meaning the upper and lower teeth are criss-crossed.  This is most visible in the front part of the mouth, but can happen in front or back of the mouth.
5.  Gummy smile meaning the patient shows too much gum when smiling.

There are many other reasons that orthodontic treatment is necessary.  Sometimes, postponing necessary orthodontic therapy leads to TMJ problems in later years.

For a free orthodontic consultation, click here.