Orthodontics (Braces)
Orthodontics is specifically concerned with diagnosing and treating tooth misalignment and irregularity in the jaw area. Initially, orthodontic treatments were geared toward the treatment of teens and pre-teens, but these days around 30 percent of orthodontic patients are adults.
There are many advantages to well-aligned teeth, including easier cleaning, better oral hygiene, clearer speech and a more pleasant smile. Though orthodontic treatment can be effective at any age, the American Dental Association suggests that an orthodontic assessment should be performed around the age of seven. The earlier orthodontic treatment begins, the more quickly the problem can be successfully resolved.
FAQ
Orthodontics is a versatile branch of dentistry that can be used alone, or in combination with maxillofacial or cosmetic dentistry.
Here are some of the common conditions treated with orthodontics:
- Protrusion: marked advancement of the upper jaw and upper teeth.
- Overcrowding: Overcrowding is a common orthodontic problem. It occurs when there is an insufficient space for the normal growth and development of adult teeth.
- Aesthetic problems: A beautiful straight smile may be marred by a single misaligned tooth. This tooth can be realigned with ease and accuracy by the orthodontist. Alternatively, orthodontists can also work to reshape and restructure the lips, jaw or the face.
There are a different types of orthodontic treatment.
Fixed orthodontic braces – A metal or ceramic dental base is affixed to each tooth, and a dental wire is inserted through each base. The orthodontist can gradually train the teeth into proper alignment by regularly adjusting the wire. When the desired results are achieved, the fixed dental braces are completely removed.
Removable appliances – There are a wide range of removable appliances commonly used in orthodontics, including headgear that correct overbites, Hawley retainers that improve the position of the teeth even as the jawbone reforms, and facemasks which are used to correct an underbite.
Invisalign – This is a newer, removable type of dental aligner that is completely transparent. Invisalign® does not interfere with eating because of its removable nature, and mechanically works in the same way as the traditional metal dental braces. Not all patients are candidates for Invisalign
Foods to Avoid while on Braces:
• Gum – bubble gum, chewing gum, and sugar free gum.
• Chips – Corn Chips, Cheese Puffs, Potato Chips, Cheetos, etc.
• Sticky Candy – Jellybeans, Starburst, Skittles, Laffy Taffy, Caramel, etc.
• Hard Candy – Lollipops, Jolly Ranchers, Peppermints, etc.
• Popcorn
• Nuts – Peanuts, Cashews, Almonds, etc.
• Candies with Nuts – Snickers, Pay Day, Chocolate cover nuts.
• Hard Cookies with nuts and/or caramel
• Granola Bars – Hard or Soft
• Fruit Snacks – Fruit Roll-Ups, Gummies, etc.
• Hard Shell Tacos or Tostadas
• Fruits – Apples, Pears, Frozen Grapes, etc.
• Vegetables- Uncooked Carrots, Uncooked Celery, Corn on the cob
• Crunchy Batter – Chicken Strips, Chicken nuggets, pork chops
• Crunchy Bacon
• Hard Tough Meats
• Chewing Ice
• Sugary Drinks – Kool aid, Juice, Gatorade, etc.
• High Acidic Drinks – sodas, lemonade, etc.
Remember – to cut foods into small, thin slices such as apples, and pears.
Cut foods into small bites such as pizza, hamburgers, chicken, ribs, or
steak. Avoid biting into meats with bones.
Brushing and Flossing:
Brush 2-3 times a day – Gently brush gums to avoid swelling and bleeding.
Avoid rushing through brushing.
Floss 1 time a day before bedtime. You can use Platypus Flossers, String
Floss with floss threaders and/or water pik.
If you feel any discomfort while on braces you may:
Pain – over the counter pain relief medication
Pocking Wires – call office
Braces rubbing on cheeks – place a small amount of wax over the bracket.
Loose Brackets – If they are not bothering let office staff member know on the day of your appointment. If bracket falls off, call the office and save bracket in a zip lock bag.