Q:
What is Orthodontics?
A:
Orthodontics is the branch of industry that specialises in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial irregularities.
Q:
At what age should orthodontic treatment occur?
A:
Orthodontic treatment can be started at any age. Many orthodontic problems are easier to correct if detected at an early age before jaw growth has slowed. Earlier treatment may mean that a patient can avoid surgery and more serious complications. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child first visit an orthodontist by the age of 7 or earlier if a problem is detected by parents or the family dentist.
Q:
Would an adult patient benefit from orthodontics?
A:
Orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age. Everyone wants a beautiful and healthy smile. Thirty percent of orthodontic patients today are adults.
Q:
How does Orthodontic treatment work?
A:
Braces are steady gentle pressure to gradually move teeth into their proper positions. The brackets that are placed on your teeth and the archwire that connects them are the main components. When the archwire is placed into the brackets, it tries to return to its original shape. As it does so, it applies pressure to move your teeth into their new more ideal positions.
Q:
Will braces interfere with playing sports?
A:
No. It is recommended, however that patients protect their smiles by wearing a mouth guard when participating in any sporting activity. Specialised mouth guards can be provided in house just ask your orthodontist.
Q:
Should i see my general dentist while i have braces on?
A:
Yes, you should continue to see your general dentist every six months for cleaning and dental checkups.
Q:
What is Banding?
A:
Banding is the process of fitting and cementing orthodontic bands to your teeth.
Q:
What is Bonding?
A:
Bonding is the process of attaching brackets to your teeth using special orthodontic cement.
Q:
Do braces hurt?
A:
The placement of bands and brackets on your teeth does not hurt. Once your braces are placed and connected with the archwires you may feel some soreness of your teeth for one to four days. Your lips and cheeks may need one to two weeks to get used to the braces on your teeth.
Q:
What is a Bracket?
A:
A bracket is an orthodontic attachment that is secured to a tooth for the purpose of engaging an archwire.
Q:
What is a Separator?
A:
A separator is a small rubber ring that creates space between your teeth before bands are attached.
Q:
What is a Band?
A:
A band is a thin metal ring, usually stainless steel, which serves to secure orthodontic attachments or braces to a tooth.
Q:
What is Powerchain?
A:
Powerchain is a stretchable elastic chain used to close the spaces between the teeth.
Q:
What is a Ligature tie?
A:
A ligature elastic tie is a rubber band that fits around your bracket to hold the archwire in place. They come in a variety of colours.
Q:
What is an Appliance?
A:
An appliance is anything attached to your teeth by an orthodontist that helps move your teeth or change the shape of your jaw.
Q:
What is an Archwire?
A:
An archwire is a wire engaged in the braces, capable of causing or guiding tooth movement.
Q:
What are Impressions?
A:
Impressions are the process of making a model of your teeth by biting into a soft material that hardens into a mould of your teeth. Your Orthodontist will use these impressions to prepare your treatment plan.
Q:
What is a Retainer?
A:
A retainer is any orthodontic appliance, fixed or removable, used to maintain the position of the teeth following corrective treatment.
Q:
What is a Mouthguard?
A:
A mouthguard is a plastic device used to protect your mouth from injury while playing contact sports. All patients in braces should wear a mouthguard to prevent injuries. Our office will provide you with a mouthguard at your request.