FAQ’s
about Orthodontics: 1) What is the right age to have orthodontic treatment?
As a concerned parent like any other, you may be watchful for the
development of your child's teeth. If your child develops an "open
bite", no matter what the age, contact right away for a consult
with the Orthodontists. Children and adults can both benefit from
orthodontics, because healthy teeth can be moved at almost any age.
Because monitoring growth and development is crucial to managing some
orthodontic problems well, the American Association of Orthodontists
recommends that all children have an orthodontic screening no later
than age 7. Some orthodontic problems may be easier to correct if
treated early. Waiting until all the permanent teeth have come in,
or until facial growth is nearly complete, may make correction of
some problems more difficult and needing more time to accomplish.
2) What are the common orthodontic problems? Crowding: Teeth may be aligned poorly because the
dental arch is small and/or the teeth are large. The bone and gums
over the roots of extremely crowded teeth may become thin and recede
as a result of severe crowding. Impacted teeth (teeth that should
have come in, but have not), poor biting relationships and undesirable
appearance may all result from crowding.
Overjet or protruding upper teeth: Upper front teeth
that protrude beyond normal contact with the lower front teeth are
prone to injury, often indicate a poor bite of the back teeth (molars),
and may indicate unevenness in jaw growth. Commonly, protruded upper
teeth are associated with a lower jaw that is short in proportion
to the upper jaw. Thumb and finger sucking habits can also cause a
protrusion of the upper incisor teeth.
Deep overbite: A deep overbite or deep bite occurs
when the lower incisor (front) teeth bite too close or into the gum
tissue behind the upper teeth. When the lower front teeth bite into
the palate or gum tissue behind the upper front teeth, significant
bone damage and discomfort can occur. A deep bite can also contribute
to excessive wear of the incisor teeth.
Open bite: An open bite results when the upper and
lower incisor teeth do not touch when biting down. This open space
between the upper and lower front teeth causes all the chewing pressure
to be placed on the back teeth. This excessive biting pressure and
rubbing together of the back teeth makes chewing less efficient and
may contribute to significant tooth wear. This could be inherited
or acquired bad habit of thumbsucking.
Spacing: If teeth are missing or small, or the dental
arch is very wide, space between the teeth can occur. The most common
complaint from those with excessive space is poor appearance. Crossbite: The most common type of a crossbite is
when the upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth (toward the tongue).
Crossbite of both back teeth and front teeth are commonly corrected
early due to biting and chewing difficulties.
Underbite or lower jaw protrusion: About 3 to 5 percent
of the population has a lower jaw that is to some degree longer than
the upper jaw. This can cause the lower front teeth to protrude ahead
of the upper front teeth creating a crossbite. Careful monitoring
of jaw growth and tooth development is indicated for these patients.
3)
What causes orthodontic problems (malocclusions)
Most malocclusions are inherited, but some are acquired. Inherited
problems include crowding of teeth, too much space between teeth,
extra or missing teeth, and a wide variety of other irregularities
of the jaws, teeth and face. Acquired malocclusions can be caused
by trauma (accidents), dummy (pacifier), finger or thumbsucking, airway
obstruction by tonsils and adenoids, dental disease or premature loss
of primary (baby) or permanent teeth. Whether inherited or acquired,
many of these problems affect not only alignment of the teeth but
also facial development and appearance as well.
4)
What is the importance of orthodontic treatment?
Crooked and crowded teeth are hard to clean and maintain. This may
contribute to conditions that cause not only tooth decay but also
eventual gum disease and tooth loss. Other orthodontic problems can
contribute to abnormal wear of tooth surfaces, inefficient chewing
function, excessive stress on gum tissue and the bone that supports
the teeth, or misalignment of the jaw joints, which can result in
chronic headaches or pain in the face or neck.
When left untreated, many orthodontic problems become worse. Treatment
by a specialist to correct the original problem is often less costly
than the additional dental care required to treat more serious problems
that can develop in later years, calling for Orthognathic (Oral) Surgery.
The value of an attractive smile should not be underestimated. A pleasing
appearance is a vital asset to one’s self-confidence. A person's
self-esteem often improves as treatment brings teeth, lips and face
into proportion. In this way, orthodontic treatment can benefit social
and career success, as well as improve one’s general attitude
toward life.
5) What are the Benefits of Orthodontics?
It reduces the risk of injury, as prominent teeth are more prone to trauma.
Reduce the risk of decay, as crooked teeth are harder to clean.
Reduce the risk of developing TMJ problems.
Eliminate the excessive wear on some of your teeth that can be caused by a poorly
aligned bite.
Straight teeth provide a healthier, more
attractive smile.
A beautiful smile increases your confidence
and self-esteem.
6) If my child is advised orthodontic treatment, should I
seek a second opinion?
Review the recommended treatment with your family dentist. If you
would still like to compare your comfort level with another orthodontic
office or simply hear another orthodontist's assessment of your child's
problem, arrange for a second opinion. There is no harm, rather always
better to do that. You should feel confident in the orthodontist and
his or her staff, and trust their ability to provide you the care
and lifetime orthodontic value you seek.
7) What does orthodontic treatment cost?
The actual cost of treatment depends on several factors, including
the severity of the patient’s problem and the treatment approach
selected. You will be able to thoroughly discuss fees and payment
options before any treatment begins. This can always be discussed
during the office visit.
8) How long will orthodontic
treatment take?
In general, active treatment time with orthodontic appliances (braces)
ranges from one to three years. Interceptive, or early treatment procedures,
may take only a few months. The actual time depends on the growth
of the patient’s mouth and face, the cooperation of the patient
and the severity of the problem. Mild problems usually require less
time, and some individuals respond faster to treatment than others.
Use of rubber bands and/or headgear, if prescribed by the orthodontist,
contributes to completing treatment as scheduled.
While orthodontic treatment requires a time commitment, patients are
rewarded with healthy teeth, proper jaw alignment and a beautiful
smile that lasts a lifetime. Teeth and jaws in proper alignment look
better, work better, contribute to general physical health and can
improve self-confidence.
9) How is treatment accomplished?
Custom-made appliances, or braces, are prescribed and designed by
the orthodontist according to the problem being treated. They may
be removable or fixed (cemented and/or bonded to the teeth). They
may be made of metal, ceramic or plastic. By placing a constant, gentle
force in a carefully controlled direction, braces can slowly move
teeth through the supporting bone to a new desirable position.
Orthopedic appliances, such as headgear, bionator, Herbst and maxillary
expansion appliances, use carefully directed forces to guide the growth
and development of jaws in children and/or teenagers. For example,
an upper jaw expansion appliance can dramatically widen a narrow upper
jaw in a matter of months. Over the course of orthodontic treatment,
a headgear or Herbst appliance can dramatically reduce the protrusion
of upper incisor teeth (the top four front teeth) or retrusion of
the lower jaw (a lower jaw that is too far behind the upper jaw),
while making upper and lower jaw lengths more compatible.
10) What are orthodontic study records?
Diagnostic records are made to document the patient’s orthodontic
problem and to help determine the best course of treatment. As orthodontic
treatment will create many changes, these records are also helpful
in determining progress of treatment. Complete diagnostic records
typically include a medical/dental history, clinical examination,
plaster study models of the teeth, photos of the patient’s face
and teeth, a panoramic or other X-rays of all the teeth, a facial
profile X-ray, and other appropriate X-rays. This information is used
to plan the best course of treatment, help explain the problem, and
propose treatment to the patient and/or parents.
The profile X-ray, or cephalometric film, shows the facial form, growth
pattern, and inclination of the front teeth (if teeth are tipped or
tilted), which are essential in planning comprehensive treatment.
Panoramic or other dental X-rays are used to locate impacted teeth,
missing teeth, and shortened or damaged tooth roots, to determine
the amount of bone supporting teeth, and to evaluate position and
development of permanent teeth that have not yet come in, among other
things. From the necessary records, a custom treatment plan is created
for each patient.
11) Are there less noticeable braces?
Today’s braces are generally less noticeable than those of the
past when a metal band with a bracket (the part of the braces that
hold the wire) was placed around each tooth. Now the front teeth typically
have only the bracket bonded directly to the tooth, minimizing the
"tin grin." Brackets can be metal, clear or colored, depending
on the patient’s preference. In some cases, brackets may be
bonded behind the teeth (lingual braces). Modern wires are also less
noticeable than earlier ones. Some of today’s wires are made
of "space age" materials that exert a steady, gentle pressure
on the teeth, so that the tooth-moving process may be faster and more
comfortable for patients. A type of clear orthodontic wire is currently
in an experimental stage. Read our section on Brace. 12) How have new "high tech" wires
changed orthodontics?
In recent years, many advances in orthodontic materials have taken
place. Braces are smaller and more efficient. The wires now being
used are no longer just stainless steel. They are made of alloys of
nickel, titanium, copper and cobalt, and some of the wires are heat-activated.
NASA originally engineered the nickel-titanium alloy. These new kinds
of wires cause the teeth to continue to move during certain phases
of treatment, which may reduce the number of appointments needed to
make adjustments to the wires
13) How do braces feel?
Most people have some discomfort after their braces are first put
on or when adjusted during treatment. After the braces are on, teeth
may become sore and may be tender to biting pressures for three to
five days. Patients can usually manage this discomfort well with whatever
pain medication they might commonly take for a headache. The orthodontist
will advice patients and/or their parents what, if any, pain relievers
to take. The lips, cheeks and tongue may also become irritated for
one to two weeks as they toughen and become accustomed to the surface
of the braces.
Overall, orthodontic discomfort is short-lived and easily managed.
14) Do teeth with braces need special care?
Patients with braces must be careful to avoid hard and sticky foods.
They must not chew on pens, pencils or fingernails because chewing
on hard things can damage the braces. Damaged braces will almost always
cause treatment to take longer, and will require extra trips to the
orthodontist’s office.
Keeping the teeth and braces clean requires more precision and time,
and must be done every day if the teeth and gums are to be healthy
during and after orthodontic treatment. Patients who do not keep their
teeth clean may require more frequent visits to the dentist for a
professional cleaning.
The orthodontist and staff will teach patients how to best care for
their teeth, gums and braces during treatment. The orthodontist will
tell patients (and/or their parents) how often to brush, how often
to floss, and, if necessary, suggest other cleaning aids that might
help the patient maintain good dental health.
15)
How important is patient cooperation during orthodontic treatment?
Successful orthodontic treatment is a "two-way street" that
requires a consistent, cooperative effort by both the orthodontist
and patient. To successfully complete the treatment plan, the patient
must carefully clean his or her teeth, wear rubber bands, headgear
or other appliances as prescribed by the orthodontist, and keep appointments
as scheduled. Damaged appliances can lengthen the treatment time and
may undesirably affect the outcome of treatment. The teeth and jaws
can only move toward their desired positions if the patient consistently
wears the forces to the teeth, such as rubber bands, as prescribed.
Patients who do their part consistently make themselves look good
and their orthodontist look smart.
To keep teeth and gums healthy, regular visits to the family dentist
must continue during orthodontic treatment. Adults who have a history
of or concerns about periodontal (gum) disease might also see a periodontist
(specialist in treating diseases of the gums and bone) on a regular
basis throughout orthodontic treatment.
16) What
is the cost of orthodontic treatment?
Orthodontic treatment fees are based on the complexity and duration
of each individual case.
17) How does one pay for
their orthodontic treatment?
The Orthodontists have a number of payment plans. Generally the fee
for the locals is divided into monthly payments over the duration
of treatment. However, Orthodontists Fee Plan also offers payment
plans with initial down payment and the balance being spread over
many months of continued treatment. Many patients who already have
orthodontic insurance are better advised to consult insurance agency
for reimbursement. We also consider offering a discount for those
who elect to pay their treatment fee in full.
18)
Why should I choose my treatment in India?
It is our goal to provide the highest quality of care in the most
comfortable environment. Our panel Orthodontists forms a team that
is highly trained and strives to help each patient realize the optimal
treatment result. Our Orthodontists are spread in many important cities
of tourist interest in India. India has emerged as most competent
as well as economical for all kind of dental treatments. The patients
travelling from West are benefiting most as dental tourists.
19) Do I need a referral for an orthodontic evaluation?
The general dentists of many patients refer to the specialist Orthodontist.
However, just as many come on the referral of happy patients or hearing
the name of Orthodontist through the grape vine. We do our best to
make everyone feel welcome. Write to us for an orthodontic evaluation. Definitions Of Orthodontic Terms
Parts Of Your Braces:
Appliance
Anything the orthodontist attaches to your teeth to move your teeth
or to change the shape of your jaw
Arch Wire
A metal wire called Arch Wire is attached to your brackets to move
your teeth.
Band
a metal ring that is usually placed on you teeth to hold on parts
of your braces
Bracket
It is a metal or ceramic part that is glued onto a tooth and serves
as a means of fastening the arch wire.
Breakaway
A breakaway is a small plastic piece with an internal spring that
is used to provide force on a facebow.
Buccal tube
It is a small metal part that is welded on the outside of a molar
bank. The buccal tube contains a slot to hold archwires, lip bumpers,
facebows and other things your orthodontist uses to move your teeth.
Chain, Orthodontic Chain
A stretchable plastic chain used to hold archwires into brackets and
to make teeth.
Facebow, Headgear
Facebow are wire apparatus used to move your upper molars back in
your mouth that creates room for crowded or protrusive anterior teeth.
Generally, the facebow consists of two metal parts that have been
attached together. The inner part is shaped like a horseshoe. This
part goes in your mouth and is connected to your buccal tubes. The
outer part has two curves. The curves go around your face, and connect
to the breakaways or high pull headgear. To properly use the product,
the inner bow needs to be inserted into your buccal tubes. An elastic
neckband is placed around the back of the neck while the triangular
cast offs on both sides of neckband are attached to the outer bow
of the headgear. Completing the apparatus is a plastic safety strap
that is placed over the neckband and onto the outer bow of the headgear.
Ligating module
A small plastic piece, shaped like a donut, which is used to hold
the arch wires in the brackets on your teeth.
Lip bumper
A lip bumper is used to push the molars on your lower jaw back to
create more space for other teeth. The lip bumper consists of an arch
wire that is attached to a molded piece of plastic. You mount the
arch wire in the buccal tubes on your lower jaw, and plastic piece
rests against your lips. When you eat or talk, you push the plastic
piece back that pushes on your molars. That pushes your molars back.
Mouthguard
A device that is used to protect your mouth from injury while participating
in sports is mouthguards. The use of a mouthguards is especially important
for orthodontic patients, to prevent injuries.
Neck pad
A neck pad is a cloth-covered cushion that you wear around your neck
when you put on your facebow. Generally, the breakaways are attached
to the neck pad to provide force for the facebow.
Palatal Expander
A device used to make your jaw wider
Retainer
A gadget that the orthodontist gives you to wear after the orthodontist
removes your braces. The retainer attaches to your upper teeth and
holds them in the correct position. You wear the retainer at night
to make sure that none of your teeth move while your jaw hardens and
your teeth get strongly attached to your jaw.
Safety Strap
A plastic strap that prevents a facebow from coming loose and hurting
you.
Separator
A plastic or metal part that the orthodontist uses to create space
between your teeth for bands. Wax
A clear wax used to prevent your braces from irritating your lips
when your braces are first put on, or at other times.
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