Oral Health

Orthodontics / Braces

What is orthodontics?

Orthodontics is the dental specialty that focuses on the development, prevention, and correction of irregularities of the teeth, bite, and jaws. Orthodontists also have specialized training in facial abnormalities and disorders of the jaw. A patient may consult an orthodontist after receiving a referral from his/her general dentist -- recommending orthodontic treatment to improve the patient's physical "orofacial" appearance. However, the American Dental Association recommends that every child receive an orthodontic evaluation by the age of seven.

Why choose orthodontic treatment?

Any orthodontic problem may be classified as a malocclusion, or "bad bite." The following problems may be helped or minimized with proper orthodontic treatment:

misaligned, crooked, or crowed teeth
missing teeth
extra teeth
an overbite
an underbite
misaligned or incorrect jaw position
a disorder of the jaw joint

At what age do braces become appropriate?

Moving and correcting the alignment of the teeth follows the same biological and physical process no matter what the age. However, an adult mouth must overcome already-positioned facial bones and jaw structure. Thus, overcoming most types of malocclusions may require more than one type of orthodontic treatment for adults. In most cases, the ideal age for braces, and other orthodontic treatments, is between 10 and 14 years of age, although, persons of any age can benefit from treatment.

What are the different types of braces available?

Braces, also called fixed orthodontic appliances, generally come in three varieties:

brackets, metal or plastic, clear or tooth-colored, that are bonded to teeth

lingual-type brackets that attach to the back of teeth, hidden from view

bands that cover most of the teeth with metal bands that wrap around the teeth

All three types use wires to move the teeth to the desired position.

Oral health care and braces:

The following recommendations will help to eliminate, or reduce, any oral health problems while your teeth are in braces:

Brush your teeth carefully after every meal with fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush, as food becomes easily lodged in the braces.

Floss daily between the teeth and the braces.

Maintain every 6 month cleanings by an oral health professional.

Limit your sugar and starch intake, as debris left behind from these types of foods may turn into damaging acids, which, in addition to promoting plaque formation, may also be harmful to teeth and gums.

Avoid hard and/or sticky snacks that may be difficult to remove from the orthodontic equipment in your mouth. This includes foods such as popcorn, hard or chew candy, caramel, and/or nuts.

This page was last updated on: January 17, 2008.

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