 Orthodontics and Braces
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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 parent may consult an orthodontist after receiving a referral from their adolescent's general dentist. However, the American Dental Association recommends that every child receive an orthodontic evaluation by the age of 7.
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Any orthodontic problem may be classified as a malocclusion, or "bad bite." The following problems may be helped or minimized with proper orthodontic treatment:
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- misaligned, crooked, or crowed teeth
- missing teeth
- extra teeth
- an overbite
- an underbite
- misaligned or incorrect jaw position
- a disorder of the jaw joint
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In most cases, the ideal age for braces, and other orthodontic treatments, is between 10 and 14 years of age. Moving and correcting the alignment of the teeth follows the same biological and physical process regardless of 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 and can sometimes involve jaw surgery.
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Braces, also called fixed orthodontic appliances, have several components, including the following:
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- brackets, metal or plastic, clear or tooth-colored, that are bonded to teeth
- bands that wrap around the teeth - usually used in the back of the mouth
- wires to move the teeth into the desired positions.
- elastics, springs and other auxiliaries to aid in treatment
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The following recommendations will help to eliminate, or reduce, any oral health problems while your adolescent's teeth are in braces:
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- Make certain that your teen is brushing his/her teeth carefully after every meal with fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush, as food becomes easily lodged in the braces.
- Make certain that your teen is flossing daily between the teeth and the braces.
- Maintain every six month cleanings by your adolescent's dentist or orthodontist, or as recommended.
- Limit your teen's sugar and starch intake, as debris left behind from these types of foods may turn into damaging acids, which may be harmful to teeth and gums and promote plaque formation.
- Avoid hard and/or sticky snacks that may be difficult to remove from the orthodontic equipment in your adolescent's mouth. This includes foods such as popcorn, hard or chew candy, caramel, and/or nuts.
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