FAQ
Frequently Ask Questions
Orthodontics is an important branch of dentistry which focuses on diagnosing, preventing, and treating dental and facial abnormalities. This specialty addresses issues such as misaligned teeth, incorrect jaw joints and positions, and irregularities in the face or mouth. While many orthodontic treatments are used to improve the appearance of a person’s smile and facial structure, it can also be used to treat underlying medical conditions relating to the jaw or teeth. Orthodontists use various methods including braces and aligners to correct misalignment; appliances such as expanders to create room for erupting teeth; headgear to restrict growth if needed; retainers to keep teeth in position after treatment; and other techniques. By utilizing these tools along with oral health education, orthodontists strive to facilitate healthy smiles that will last a lifetime.
Orthodontic treatment isn't just for children and teens, adults can benefit from it too. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, children should visit an orthodontist around the age of seven to begin preventive care and improve their oral health. In fact, adults comprise a significant portion of orthodontic patients; one in every five orthodontic patients is over 10 years old. Dr. Abbasi has even seen patients in their 90s who have been able to achieve improved smiles with orthodontic treatment. No matter what age you are, it's important to consider visiting an orthodontist if you're looking to enhance your smile and overall oral health.
- It is essential to maintain good oral health by brushing your teeth after every meal and flossing at least once a day. Using toothpaste with fluoride will help ensure that cavities don't form.
- When taking out the retainer for meals, make sure to brush and floss your teeth and keep the retainer safe in its container.
- Cleaning the retainer should be done carefully, using a toothbrush and toothpaste, or by soaking it in denture cleaner as recommended by Dr. Abbasi. It should not be exposed to boiling water or cleaned in a dishwasher.
- Additionally, it is important to limit sugar intake as much as possible since sugar can create an environment conducive for bacteria growth and plaque formation on the teeth.
- It is important to maintain a healthy diet while undergoing orthodontic treatment. One should reduce sugar consumption as this can increase bacteria growth and lead to plaque buildup and more cavities.
- Sticky, chewy, hard, or crunchy foods should be avoided as they may get stuck in the appliance and can damage it. Examples include caramel, gum, gummy bears, hard candy, nuts, ice cubes, corn on the cob, bagels, ribs and taffy.
- Regular dental checkups are essential for detecting any potential problems that may arise during the treatment process. It is recommended to visit your family dentist every 6 months for a thorough assessment of your oral health.
Braces are used by an orthodontist to help you improve the look and feel of your smile. There are several different types of braces to choose from, including:
- Clear braces are made of transparent plastic and are less visible than traditional metal braces. They are held in place with small rubber bands and blend into teeth, making them a popular choice for adults looking for a more discreet option.
- Ceramic braces utilize tooth-colored or clear brackets that blend in with your teeth, making them virtually unnoticeable to people around you. They require regular tightening like regular metal braces, but they have a shorter treatment time.
- Self-ligating braces are brackets that do not require elastic ties to hold the wires in place, resulting in less friction and fewer office visits.
- Invisible braces, also known as aligners, use a series of removable trays made from medical grade plastic to gradually move your teeth into their desired position over time.
- Traditional metal braces are still the most popular type of orthodontic treatment today due to their durability and affordability. Metal brackets are attached to the front of each tooth and connected by an archwire which works to slowly shift teeth into position over time.
Braces treat a variety of orthodontic issues, such as overcrowding, gaps in the teeth, incorrect bite alignment and distorted tooth positions. The amount of time spent in braces depends on the individual patient and their specific case. Generally, treatment times range from six to 30 months, with the average being about 18 months. During this period, braces use gentle pressure over time to gradually move the teeth into their correct positions. This process requires regular visits to an orthodontist for adjustments and progress checks; these visits help ensure that the treatment is going smoothly and can be completed in a timely manner. By working alongside a qualified professional throughout your treatment process, patients can expect to have results that are both aesthetically pleasing and long-lasting.
Braces may initially cause some mild discomfort as your mouth adjusts to the foreign material and pressure. Many patients experience a slightly sore feeling in their teeth, gums, cheeks, and tongue for the first few days or weeks after getting braces. During this time, it is important to brush gently and use extra caution when flossing so that irritation or inflammation of the oral tissues can be avoided. Eating softer foods can also help during the initial adjustment period, as well as provide relief from any lingering soreness. However, many people find that they adjust quickly and that any minor discomfort fades away within a couple of days.
When you have braces and wear them, it is essential to maintain a proper oral hygiene routine. Brushing your teeth at least three times a day is the best way to prevent plaque buildup, tooth decay, and gum disease. Taking the time to brush thoroughly each time can help remove any food particles that may be stuck in between your braces as well as any other debris or bacteria that can cause problems. Flossing daily can also help to get deep between your braces and remove any plaque or tartar that brushing alone cannot reach. To ensure that your teeth remain healthy and clean while wearing braces, talk to Dr. Abbasi about proper brushing and flossing techniques so that you can make sure you’re doing a thorough job.
It is absolutely vital that individuals undergoing orthodontic treatment maintain regular dental check-ups, as food particles can easily become lodged and trapped in places which a standard toothbrush cannot adequately reach. This can lead to the build up of bacteria, and an increased risk of developing cavities, gingivitis or gum disease. To ensure this is avoided, Dr. Abbasi works closely with the patient's dentist to provide expert guidance and advice on how to properly care for their teeth during orthodontic treatment. Regular visits to the dentist are necessary in order to ensure that the teeth remain healthy and clean while wearing braces.
Wearing braces does not have to interfere with your hobbies or school activities. In fact, you can continue playing instruments or contact sports without any issues once you adjust to the feeling of having braces. After getting braces, it is important to wear a mouthguard when participating in a contact sport to protect your brackets and wires from damage. Additionally, if you play an instrument, be sure to practice for a few days so that you can become accustomed to the new sensation of having braces on your teeth. With some minor adjustments, you'll be able to participate in any activity just like before.
At our practice, we understand that our patients lead busy lives and strive to make scheduling as convenient and hassle-free as possible. Whether you are an existing patient or have been referred to us by another provider, our friendly front desk staff are always willing to accommodate you. We provide detailed information on the services we offer and answer any questions you may have. To book your next appointment, simply give us a call or contact us through our website – we look forward to seeing you soon!
