Can you be too old for braces?
No, if the bone and gum tissue around the teeth are healthy, age is not a factor. About 20% of orthodontic patients are adults
What will happen at the first appointment?
The first appointment will take approximately 30 minutes. A brace will not be fitted at this session. At this stage we will use the time to assess your problems, discuss the orthodontic treatment plan that will be necessary and the optimum time to start treatment. We will also take into account your own concerns, your dental development and your oral hygiene.
How do you carry out orthodontic treatment?
Orthodontic treatment involves wearing a brace (appliance) that is specially made for you. These can be of modern design such as the low friction Damon system braces or the ultimate in cosmetic braces, with near invisible aligners called Invisalign braces. Depending on the type, the appliance can move your teeth into position; guide the way your jaw grows, or even widen your jaw to make room for crowded teeth. Occasionally, it might be necessary to extract some teeth if your mouth is very crowded.
Will it make my teeth sore?
Quite possibly, but do not be discouraged. A few hours after fitting your brace, you may feel general soreness in your mouth and teeth may be tender to biting pressures. This discomfort may last for three to four days and a mild analgesic, such as paracetamol, may be necessary.
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. You can put wax on the braces to lessen this. We'll show you how!
How long will treatment take?
This depends on your age and your bite problem. Most people need to wear their brace for about two years, but you can make a difference by looking after and wearing your braces properly. Broken braces and missed appointments will slow your treatment down. What you need to remember is that this is a team effort and the success and speed of your treatment depends on the partnership between you, the dental nurses and your orthodontist.
Is treatment more difficult for adults?
Adults can be treated successfully at any time. However, treatment options using growth are no longer available.
What causes crooked teeth?
Just as we inherit eye color from our parents, mouth and jaw features are also inherited. Local factors such as finger sucking, high cavity rate, gum disease, trauma and premature loss of baby teeth can also contribute to a bad bite.
Can I have my teeth straightened without having braces glued to my teeth?
Yes, if you are an adult with only 1 - 6 millimeters of crowding or spacing of your front teeth and no missing or severely tipped teeth. A series of 3-D computer generated invisible aligners made by Invisalign may allow creation of a beautiful smile for you without glued on braces. This advanced technology is not for growing children.
How often will I need to visit the orthodontist?
Generally your brace will need adjusting every 6 to 8 weeks.
What is a retainer?
Once the active period is completed, your braces are removed. The next step is called retention. Retainers are utilized to hold your teeth in their new positions until your bone, gums, and muscles adapt to the new teeth positions. You must wear your retainer as instructed, otherwise your teeth may move toward their original positions and the benefit of wearing your braces will be lost. |
