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Nice smiles get noticed
Your smile is your greeting to the world. It’s also a window to an important part of your dental health — the alignment of your teeth. Not everyone is born with beautiful teeth. Crooked teeth or spaces between the teeth may be a source of embarrassment or self-consciousness. Improperly aligned teeth and jaws called a “malocclusion” also can lead to tooth decay and a host of sometimes painful dental disorders. The good news is that orthodontic treatment can correct malocclusions and help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile that’s good for life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What would you like to know about orthodontics? Following are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about orthodontics.
What causes orthodontic problems?
Most orthodontic problems (malocclusions) are inherited. Examples of these genetic problems are crowding, spacing, protrusion, extra or missing teeth, and some jaw growth problems. Other malocclusions are acquired due to thumb- or finger-sucking, dental disease, accidents, the early or late loss of baby (primary) teeth, or other causes.
Why is treatment so important?
Orthodontic treatment creates a better bite, making teeth fit better, and decreases the risk of future, and potentially costly dental problems. Crooked and crowded teeth are hard to clean and maintain. A malocclusion can cause tooth enamel to wear abnormally, difficulty chewing and/or speaking, and excess stress on supporting bone and gum tissue. Without treatment, many problems become worse.
Why select an orthodontist?
Orthodontists are dental specialists who diagnose, prevent, and treat dental and facial irregularities. They receive an additional four to five years of specialized education beyond dental school to learn the proper way to align and straighten teeth. Only those who complete this formal education may call themselves “orthodontists,” and only orthodontists may be members of the Pakistan Association of Orthodontists (PAO).
When should children get a check-up with an orthodontist?
It is recommended that your child get a check-up with an orthodontist at the first recognition of an orthodontic problem, but no later than age 7. By then, your child has enough permanent teeth for an orthodontist to determine whether an orthodontic problem exists or is developing. Putting off a check-up with an orthodontist until a child has lost all baby teeth could be a disservice. Some orthodontic problems may be easier to correct if they are found early. A check-up no later than age 7 allows your orthodontist to recommend the appropriate treatment at the appropriate time. If early treatment is in order, the orthodontist may be able to achieve results that may not be possible once the face and jaws have finished growing.
Can adults benefit from orthodontic treatment?
Yes. Age is not a consideration when it comes to orthodontic treatment. Healthy teeth can be moved at any age. Today, adults account for one in every five orthodontic patients. Thanks to the variety of “appliances” used by orthodontists, adults may be able to inconspicuously achieve the great smile they want. Advances in today’s orthodontic materials mean patients see the orthodontist only about once every 4-6 weeks during active treatment.
What is the patient’s role in treatment?
Orthodontic treatment is a partnership between the patient and the orthodontist. The orthodontist provides custom-made fixed or removable appliances that use gentle pressure over time to move teeth into their proper positions. Your job is to follow the orthodontist’s instructions, keep scheduled orthodontic appointments, and maintain excellent oral hygiene to achieve your best results. You will also need to see your primary care dentist as recommended.
How long does treatment take?
Orthodontic treatment averages less than two years but can range from one to three years. When “active” treatment ends, retainers are prescribed for most patients to keep teeth in their new positions.
How much does treatment cost?
The cost of orthodontic treatment depends on many factors, including the severity of the problem, its complexity, and length of treatment. Your orthodontist will be glad to discuss fees with you before treatment begins. Many patients find that orthodontic treatment is more affordable today than ever. Most orthodontists offer a variety of payment plans.
Orthodontic Treatment for Adults:
You’re never too old to benefit from orthodontic treatment. Today, adults make up about one in every five orthodontic patients. Here’s why:
Looking good:
Orthodontic treatment can help correct crooked teeth or spaces that you’ve been self-conscious about for years. It can give you the confidence and pride that come with straight teeth and a great smile.
Maintaining dental health:
Leaving misaligned teeth untreated may lead to other dental problems such as tooth decay and gum disease, as well as abnormal wearing of tooth surfaces and difficulty in chewing. Orthodontic treatment can help you keep good dental health.
Advances in orthodontics have made treatment more comfortable and more successful than ever for people of all ages. Orthodontists work with other dental practitioners — general dentists, periodontists, prosthodontists, and oral surgeons — to provide a comprehensive approach to your dental health.
Am I a good fit for orthodontic treatment?
Consulting with an orthodontist can help to determine if you can benefit from treatment. After carefully analyzing the nature of your needed correction, your orthodontist will recommend the best course of treatment for improving your smile.
I’m missing some teeth. Can orthodontic treatment improve my bite?
Orthodontic treatment can create or hold space to replace missing teeth. The orthodontist will work with the dentist or dental specialist who will provide bridges or implants so that the patient achieves the best result.
I’ve been treated for gum disease. Can my teeth be straightened?
Your orthodontist will consult with your dentist and/or periodontist about the health of your gums. If you are a candidate for orthodontic treatment, you will continue regular supervision with your dentist and periodontist. In many cases, tooth alignment can improve the health of the gums.
