Orthodontics is a dental specialty concerned with the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of malocclusion by means of braces, retainers, headgear, and other corrective appliances. Although there are many different types of orthodontic appliances, two of the most common are traditional metal braces and clear aligners. Both of these methods work by applying force to the teeth in order to gradually change their position.
Did You Know?
Malocclusion means an uneven bite or “bad bite.” There are different types of malocclusion including: overbites, underbites, crossbites, and open bites.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Does my child need orthodontic treatment?
Only an orthodontist can diagnose the need for orthodontic treatment, however your child may need orthodontic treatment if they display any of the following signs:
- teeth crowding
- frequent thumb sucking
- primary teeth fall out too early or late
- jaw appears disproportionate to the face
- regularly breathes from their mouth while sleeping
- exhibits malocclusion (overbite, underbite, cross bite, or open bite)
Regardless of whether or not your child is displaying these signs, it is recommended that they have an orthodontic screening no later than the age of 7. Early orthodontic screenings can detect and address potential problems, which can minimize the extent of orthodontic treatment needed down the line. To determine if your child can benefit from orthodontic treatment, schedule a consultation with Jowett & Lewis Family Dentistry today.
Can adults be candidates for orthodontic treatment?
Yes! Whether you’ve never had orthodontic treatment or your teeth have shifted after receiving treatment in your teens, you can be candidates for adult orthodontic treatment if your teeth are crowded, crooked, overlapping, or have gaps between them. To determine if you are an ideal candidate for adult orthodontic treatment, schedule a consultation with Jowett & Lewis Family Dentistry today.
What can I expect when receiving orthodontic treatment at Jowett & Lewis Family Dentistry?
When receiving orthodontic treatment at Jowett & Lewis Family Dentistry, you can expect our dentists to assess your bite and take dental x-rays. They will then use this information to provide recommendations for the most effective course of treatment.
Your exact treatment expectations will vary depending on your age, diagnosis, and the type of orthodontic appliance used. For example, there are certain orthodontic appliances that can be used for early orthodontic treatment in children, however these appliances are usually not effective when treating teens or adults. Additionally, some orthodontic appliances are removable, while others are fixed in place.
Your dentist will tell you what you need to know about your specific orthodontic appliance so that you know what to expect during your treatment. In some cases, you may need to adhere to temporary diet restrictions. You may also need to learn how to care for your orthodontic appliance to prevent it from becoming damaged or lost.
What can I expect after orthodontic treatment?
In most cases after receiving orthodontic treatment, you can expect to be fitted with a retainer. A retainer is an orthodontic appliance that “retains” the new position of your teeth. In most cases, you will start by wearing the retainer full time, then you will slowly transition to wearing it only at night, per your dentist’s instructions.
