Orthodontics, Braces
There are several different types of braces or correction appliances available. The most common type of braces are stainless steel or ceramic/porcelain attachments that are placed on either the front or the back side of the teeth and used as anchors to straighten and align the teeth. Self-ligating braces have replaced the need for rubber ties to hold the wire in places, instead having a latch or door on the bracket to open and close to fix the wire in place. The use of clear aligners is used when aesthetics are a concern.
Why Braces?
For most people, a beautiful smile is the most obvious benefit of orthodontics. After your braces come off, you’ll feel more self-confident. During your treatment, we want you to feel as comfortable as possible.
Your Child and Braces – What You MUST Know
In today’s day and age, It is believed that close to 70% of children will end up in some form of orthodontic (braces, aligners or appliance) treatment. Braces are most frequently used to correct positioning of the teeth and/or correct the way the teeth bite together. Teeth that don’t fit together properly can cause difficulty for children when chewing and speaking, as well as cause headaches and/or jaw pain. Grinding can also be common in children whose teeth are not properly aligned. Dr. Sama cares about your children and wants to do the best she can to ensure a safe, smooth and comfortable orthodontic experience. Because of this, sometimes it is recommended to begin treatment at an early age.
The Earlier, the Better!
Dr. Sama completed a two year Comprehensive Straight Wire and Functional Orthodontic Program and has been providing comprehensive orthodontic care for children and adults for many years. Dr. Sama strongly emphasizes the importance of early intervention in children as early diagnosis and intervention can greatly reduce treatment time and may improve treatment outcome. Dr. Sama believes in a “no extraction” philosophy, which means she wants to help keep ALL of your child’s healthy teeth! Dr. Sama recommends early intervention for the following reasons:
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To expand and guide the jaw to make more room for larger adult teeth (children are more resilient at a younger age)
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To correct harmful habits like tongue thrust and thumb-sucking
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To improve appearance of teeth and your child’s confidence
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 six months.
Life With Braces
What can you eat? Let’s talk about what you shouldn’t eat! If you’ve been wanting to drop a few pounds, the first week wearing braces is just your chance! For the first day or so, stick to soft foods. Avoid tough meats, hard breads, and raw vegetables. Before long, you’ll be able to bite a cucumber again. But you’ll need to protect your orthodontic appliances when you eat for as long as you’re wearing braces.
How Do I Know If My Child Needs Early Treatment?
Some signs that Dr. Sama looks for when suggesting early treatment:
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Crowded teeth
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Early or late loss of baby teeth
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Difficulty chewing
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Habits such as thumb-sucking
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An unbalance facial appearance
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Grinding or clenching of the teeth
All children should have an orthodontic assessment by the age of 7 years old. By this age, Dr. Sama can generally conclude whether your child may need orthodontic intervention. Dr. Sama prides herself on her expertise and knowledge to treat all of your children’s orthodontic needs.
At 16 Mile Dental, we want child’s orthodontic treatment to be flawless. To ask questions or for a complimentary consultation, please call us to make an appointment! We can’t wait to meet you and your child and help create a beautiful smile that they can be proud of!