Ther are so many questions about orthodontics we often never ask, so Dr. Souris took some time to answer the more common ones:
At what age should orthodontic treatment occur?
Orthodontic treatment can be done at any age, but many jaw problems are easier to correct if detected at an early age before the jaw growth slows down. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children be evaluated starting at age 7 if a problem is detected by the parents, the family dentist, or the child's physician. Early treatment at a younger age (8-10 years) can help a patient avoid long difficult treatments later that could involve pulling of adult teeth or even jaw surgery.
What is Phase I and Phase II treatment?
Phase I, or early interceptive treatment, is limited orthodontic treatment with special jaw growing appliances and limited braces to help correct problems such as lack of space for adult teeth, cossbites, overbites, underbites, and other developing jaw problems. This treatment usually occurs between the ages of 8 and 10 years and is meant to prevent existing problems from becoming severe enough to require long difficult treatments involving pulling of teeth or jaw surgery. Phase II treatment is also called comprehensive treatment because it involves full braces after all the adult teeth have erupted usually between the ages of 11 and 13 years.
Am I too old for braces?
Absolutely not! Orthodontic treatment can be beneficial and successsful at any age. Everyone wants a healthy and beautiful smile. About 35% of our patients are adults.
How does orthodontic treatment work?
Braces use constant gentle pressure to slowly move the teeth into their proper positions. The wires placed in the braces want to return to their original "straight " shape. As they try to do this, they apply constant pressure to the crooked teeth and slowly carry them to the desired position.
How long does orthodontic treatment take?
Treatment times vary on a case-by-case basis, but the average time is from one to two years. Actual treatment time can be affected by the child's growth and the severity of the correction necessary. Treatment length is also dependent upon patient cooperation, so good oral hygiene and keeping regular appointments are important in keeping your treatment time on schedule.
Do braces hurt?
Placing the brackets and bands on your teeth does not hurt. However, once the wires are placed in your braces, a few hours later you may feel some soreness of your teeth which may last a few days. It usually fades away relatively quickly. Your lips and cheeks also may need a few weeks to adjust to the presence of the braces on your teeth.
Will braces interfere with playing sports?
No. It is recommended, however, that patients protect thier lips and teeth by wearing a mouthguard which we supply for you.
Will braces interfere with playing musical instruments?
No. However, there may be an initial period of adjustment and the wax we supply may be necessary to cover the braces at first.
Should I see my general dentist while I have braces?
Yes, you should continue to see your general dentist every six months for your cleaning and dental checkup or more frequently if recommended.
Have more questions? Give us a call at 440-734-1146 or visit our website at http://www.bracesbysouris.com/. We'd love to hear from you.
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