Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that specializes in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. Back to top

Why do orthodontic problems occur?

Most orthodontic problems are inherited, but some are acquired. Inherited problems may include crowding, spacing between teeth, extra or missing teeth and a wide variety of other irregularities of the jaws and face. Acquired problems may be caused by a habit, like thumb sucking or tongue thrusting, the airway being restricted by tonsils or adenoids, high cavity rate, or premature loss of baby or permanent teeth.   Back to top

What are the early warning signs of a bad bite?     

(also see "common orthodontic problems")

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It is most important to examine your child’s teeth as the permanent teeth grow in. Although children mature at different rates, there are some averages for permanent tooth arrival.  You can also click here to "mirror-test your smile".    Back to top

Will additional jaw growth allow self-correction of crowded teeth visible in an 8 year old?

No. The space available for the front teeth does not increase after the permanent 6 year molars erupt. In most people, the space available for the front teeth decreases with increasing age.  Back to top

Why are braces important?

Crooked teeth are hard to clean and maintain, which may contribute to formation of cavities and gum disease. They can also result in poor chewing and digestion, abnormal tooth wear or unnecessary stress on the jaw joints. When left untreated some problems may become worse with time.  Back to top

Do braces hurt?

As a general rule, braces do not hurt. Usually after an adjustment, your teeth will be sore for a day or two. That annoyance could be relieved with an over-the-counter pain reliever if necessary.  Back to top

The actual cost of orthodontic treatment varies widely depending on the severity of the problem. Compared to today’s dental expenses, braces are a bargain. Considering the time spent in treatment and the many benefits of having a lifetime of beautiful and healthy smiles, orthodontics is regarded as dentistry’s best value. We have many financing options available to meet your needs and will be happy to go over them with you. Many of our patients have insurance coverage. Our office will assist you in filing procedures.  Back to top

Custom made appliances, or braces, are prescribed and designed according to the particular problem being treated. They may be removable or fixed (cemented and/or bonded). They may be made of metal, ceramic or plastic. All appliances use gentle pressure to move teeth into their proper position.  Back to top

Bands are thin bands of metal, carefully fitted to the tooth and then cemented in place. They carry brackets or tubes. Brackets are pieces of specially shaped metal or ceramic that are attached to each tooth and become a handle on the tooth. They give us the way to grasp and control each tooth. Today braces are made smaller then before, which makes them less noticeable. It is also possible to have ceramic brackets that blend in with the natural tooth color.  Back to top

Wires are bent to move your teeth into their proper place. The wire threads through the brackets and, as the wire tries to return to its original shape, it applies gentle pressure to move your teeth. They are changed throughout the treatment. Each change brings us closer to the ideal tooth position.  Back to top

Rubber bands or elastics are attached to your braces and provide the necessary force that helps teeth move. They contribute a lot to straighter teeth and a healthier bite. It is important to wear your rubber bands as prescribed and change them two-three times a day so the force is constant. A lack of consistency in rubber band wear may result in prolonged treatment time or can bring treatment to a standstill (and who wants that?).  Back to top

Treatment time depends on the complexity of the original problem, the growth of the patient’s mouth and face, and the cooperation of the patient (remember rubber bands?).  Back to top

Will I have to wear retainers after treatment?

Yes. When we move teeth to the new improved position, they always have a tendency to move back slightly. Wearing retainer allows the bone around the teeth to adapt to the new position and is the best way to minimize this unwanted movement.  Back to top

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child visit an orthodontist by age 7 - or earlier if an orthodontic problem is detected by parents, the family dentist or the child’s physician. Early consultation allows the orthodontist to determine the optimum time for treatment of the child’s particular problem for maximum improvement with the least time and expense.  Back to top 

You are never too old for braces. The process of moving teeth is the same in adults and children. In fact, about 25 percent of orthodontic patients today are adults. Treatment time may be a little slower, but the benefits are definitely worth it.  Back to top

For the first day or two after you get your braces, or another appliance, you may be more aware of their presence. Soon, it will become a part of you and you will not have any trouble with speech.  Back to top

You will have to give up extremely hard and sticky foods, including gum. These foods can break the braces off. You will also have to spend a few extra minutes brushing your braces after meals. But, for the most part, you’ll find braces don’t interfere with your lifestyle. You can do anything with braces – sing, play a musical instrument (if you knew how to do that before braces, of course), dine out, kiss, and even have your picture taken.  Back to top

Yes. Regular visits to the family dentist must continue during orthodontic treatment because good dental care and proper fluoride remain important. Proper nutrition also is essential.  Back to top

Teeth and sometimes faces are permanently changed by orthodontic treatment; therefore, it is very important that the treatment be done properly. Orthodontic specialists limit their practice to orthodontics and dento-facial orthopedics. By completing an advanced education program following dental school, they have learned the special skills required to manage tooth movement and guide facial development.  Back to top

You don’t need a referral from your family dentist unless you are in a managed care plan with a "gatekeeper" primary care dentist. Word of mouth recommendation from friends and families of existing patients is often the primary way orthodontists meet new patients. Spread the word if you like your orthodontist!

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