Orthodontic Treatment: Frequently Asked Questions

Sometimes, you and your loved ones may need orthodontic treatment. This article puts down some of the most commonly asked questions on the topic of orthodontics to help you understand better.

What is Orthodontics?

Also known as dentofacial orthopedics, orthodontics is a dentistry field whose primary focus is on diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of abnormalities of the face and dental formulae.

Who is An Orthodontist?

This is a dental specialist who, in addition to receiving a general dentist’s training, also has additional special experience and training of two to three years. They are tasked with straightening teeth, correcting misaligned jaws, and improving your smile functionality.

When Should I Schedule My First Visit?

According to the American Association of Orthodontists, your kid’s first visit should be when they are around seven years old. However, since each mouth is unique, any age is appropriate. Once you start noticing problems that could pose greater risks to your health, the earlier you seek orthodontic services, the better.

What Are Braces?

These are appliances that your orthodontist at All American Dental in Columbia uses to align your teeth. You can choose from a wide variety of braces, including:

• Ceramic braces
• Clear braces
• Self-ligating braces
• Lingual braces
• Metal braces
• Invisible braces

How long should I wear my Braces?

The duration of wearing your braces is entirely dependent on your top orthodontist’s instructions. This is because each patient’s smile is unique and responds differently to braces. Treatment could go on for six to 30 months, although the standard duration is usually 22 months.

How do I Care for my Teeth After Getting Braces?

Here are some tips from experts:

• Ensure you brush after each meal and floss once every day.
• Ensure you use fluoride toothpaste to keep away cavities
• You can take off your braces during eating, but you ensure you place them away safely and brush your teeth afterward before putting them back on.
• It is also essential to ensure your braces are clean at all times. Use a wet toothbrush to brush over it gently. You could also soak it in the recommended retainer cleaner.
• Stay away from foods with high sugar content as they multiply the number of harmful bacteria in your mouth, increasing your chances of developing cavities.
• Avoid chewy and sticky foods like chewing gums that are likely to stick in the braces.
• Do not stop making the bi-annual routine checks to the dentist.

Will I feel Pain?

Although braces do not hurt, it is not uncommon for patients to experience discomfort during and a few days after the procedure. This happens because your mouth, gums, teeth, and cheeks are still adjusting to the new addition.

Will I have To Brush my Teeth More Often Now That I have Braces?

Definitely yes. You will need to brush at least thrice daily for a clean and healthy mouth. This stems from the fact that food is likely to get lodged between the braces. For those areas unreachable by your brush, use flossing. However, you do not have to worry about this as you will be shown how to take care of your teeth with braces.

What is the Cause of Orthodontic Problems?

Malocclusions are mostly genetic, meaning that you are likely to inherit them from your parents. If you have a family history of jaw formation and growth problems, crowded teeth, or crooked issues, you too can develop these complications. Apart from that, some diseases and behaviors could also cause orthodontic problems. One of them is prolonged thumb sucking, which causes malocclusion and results in severe dental conditions. Injuries, accidents, or any trauma to the jaw or mouth could cause orthodontic problems.

Why is Orthodontics Necessary?

There are several orthodontic benefits. The mouth is one of your body’s most used organs. It is, therefore, no doubt that orthodontics is way more than just a cosmetic procedure. Your orthodontist addresses issues concerning your bite, jaw position, the fitting of your teeth, crowding, and several others that could make oral care difficult.

If you do not get orthodontic treatment early enough, you may develop more severe complications requiring extensive treatment. They include:

• Jaw pain and strain
• Enamel wear
• Bone loss
• Gum disease
• Speech and chewing difficulties