Most
of us understand that the term orthodontics means the movement and correct
alignment of the teeth. This change in tooth position is usually best accomplished
with fixed or permanent braces.
Unfortunately, removable orthopedic appliances can make remarkable corrections in the patient's bony problems, but they do not align the teeth well. Conversely, fixed conventional braces can align the teeth quite nicely, but they have difficulty correcting bony problems. It is for these reasons that your dentist may use a combination of both of these techniques to properly solve a problem.
New
invisible porcelain braces are available to make the orthodontic portion of
the treatment less obvious. There is, however, an additional cost for this
type of orthodontic appliance.
1.
Diagnosis
The first step in treating your child is to fully understand the nature of
the problem. In order to arrive at a proper diagnosis the dentist will take
a series of records. These include study casts of your child's teeth, photographs
of the face, x-rays of the teeth and jaws, and a single x-ray of the skull
called a cephalometric radiograph.
Once the doctor has all of this information, he or she can diagnose the exact
cause of your child's problem. It is important for you, the parent, to understand
that the improper alignment of dental units is usually more complex than just
"crooked teeth." The dentist must not only straighten the teeth,
but must also establish balance and harmony within the jaws, face and the
temporomandibular joint.
2.
Treatment
Individual treatment plan will be created for each patient based upon evaluation
of diagnostic models,pictures, xrays and medical history. We will insure that
treatment is the least invasive and allows for achievement of the best results
at the same time.
- Removable Appliances
When a removable orthopedic appliance is used to correct jaws that are growing improperly. A different form of appliance may be required to treat different growth problems.
- Fixed Appliances
This is the conventional appliance technique using fixed braces. The appliance is attached to each individual tooth for precise positioning of the teeth. It should be noted that quite frequently two or more of these techniques are combined in order to achieve the desired results. Your dentist will explain to you the type of treatment that can best correct the patient's problem.
- Surgical Therapy
Just as the name implies, this procedure is reserved for those patients whose bony imbalance has progressed to the point that only surgical intervention can correct the problem.
COORDINATION is critical in achieving of successful treatment. It is doctors duty to recognize patient's needs and apply proper therapy. It is the role of the patient to follow the instructions of the doctor.
3.
Completion
Upon completion teeth are stabilized with the use of permanent retainers (invisible
piece of metal wire attached to the lingual (back) side of teeth). Impressions
are taken and removable retainers are made.
FAQ
- Is early treatment
always necessary?
No, in fact early diagnosis and exam are more necessary. Sometimes we are able to guide growth of a child's teeth with simple functional removable appliance and avoid serious orthodontic therapy.
- Am I too old for
braces?
No, contemporary techniques allow for treatment of patients in all ages. More and more adults are interested in a beautiful smile and there is NO age limit.
- How long will my
treatment take?
The average orthodontic treatment takes from 6 to 24 months. It is usually evaluated at initial orthodontic visit.
- Will my insurance
cover the cost of my braces?
Insurance coverage differs from policy to policy. An average coverage is about 40% of the total amount. We will assist with all information on insurance coverage to all our patients before we start. Your balance is expected to be taken care of before the date of completion.
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