Orthodontics

Braces for All Ages

Orthodontics is a specialty of dentistry concerned with alignment of the teeth. We usually recommend braces to improve the patient’s bite alignment and/or appearance. With braces problems like crooked or crowded teeth, uneven spacing, overbites or underbites can be corrected.

Orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age. For some children, treatment can start at age 7 or 8, depending on the problem. In some cases poor jaw development may be the result of an improper habit such as thumb-sucking. Braces aren’t usually put on any sooner than 9 years old for girls and 10 for boys. At these ages the bones of the head and jaws are growing fastest and teeth are easiest to move.

Adults especially appreciate the benefits of a beautiful smile. One of every five patients in orthodontic treatment is over 21. Adults may have experienced some breakdown or loss of their teeth and bone that supports the teeth and may require periodontal treatment. At Vaughan Dental Group we offer our patients many options for orthodontic treatment.

How Orthodontic Treatment Works

Orthodontic appliances can be made of metal, ceramic or acrylic. They may be removable or they may be brackets bonded to the teeth. By placing a constant, gentle force in a carefully controlled direction, braces slowly move teeth to a corrected position. This is a great time to wear braces! Gone are the days when a metal band was placed around each tooth. You can choose brackets that are clear or metallic color. that hold the wire in brackets. Wires are also less noticeable than they used to be and the latest materials move teeth faster with less discomfort to patients.

Correcting the problem can create a great smile, but more important, orthodontic treatment results in a healthier mouth. Crooked and crowded teeth make cleaning your teeth difficult, which can lead to tooth decay, gum disease and possibly tooth loss. An improper bite can interfere with chewing and speaking, can cause abnormal wear to tooth enamel, and can lead to problems with the jaws.

Duration of Treatment

Treatment time typically ranges from one to three years, depending on the growth of the patient’s mouth and face and the severity of the problem. Patients grow at different rates and will respond variously to orthodontic treatment, so the time to case completion may differ from the original estimate. The patient’s diligent use of any prescribed rubber bands or headgear is an important factor in achieving the most efficient treatment. Interceptive, or early treatment procedures, may take as few as nine months.

Contact us today to set up an appointment with Dr. Bruce Arshawsky if your are considering braces.

Don’t hesitate to contact us to discuss any aspect of your dental health - we don’t charge for giving advice!

Name:
Email:
Phone:
Message: