If your child is showing signs of an irregular bite and you live in Glendale, Pasadena, Burbank, or nearby cities, please consider taking him to our friendly orthodontist at Pacific Dental Care to correct the problem as soon as possible.
Orthodontics FAQ’s
What is Orthodontics?
Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry concerned with the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of tooth irregularities and misalignment of the jaw.
Why is it important to have an orthodontic treatment?
Correction of malocclusions (bad bite) and tooth alignment: A bad bite causes premature wear of teeth or fracture of the enamel. It can also cause problems with the jaw joint itself.
It improves oral hygiene: Crowded teeth make it difficult to perform proper oral hygiene, causing accumulation of bacterial plaque which is responsible for producing inflammation of the gums (gingivitis), dental cavities and halitosis (bad breath).
It improves self-esteem: It is proven that a beautiful smile and properly aligned teeth and jaws give confidence in performing daily activities, resulting in better interpersonal relationships.
How long does an orthodontic treatment take?
The length of treatment depends on the initial state of each patient, but most people are in treatment for one to three years. Treatment will evolve successfully if the patient attends diligently to oral hygiene, takes proper care of the dental appliances, and regularly visits the orthodontist. The more severe the problem the longer it will take to correct. Some patients find that their teeth can be corrected in a matter of weeks, whereas others will require a longer period of time.
At what age should I have orthodontic treatment?
Abnormal bites usually arise between the ages of 6 and 12, so orthodontic treatment often begins between ages 8 and 14. Any orthodontic problems are much easier to correct if detected at an early age, before jaw growth has slowed. However, adults also can have an orthodontic treatment; healthy teeth can be treated at any age.
How is treatment carried out?
Orthodontic treatment can be done by braces and removable aligners (Invisalign) which are the appliances Pacific Dental Care uses most commonly to guide teeth into their proper positions. Dental braces can effectively treat bad bites and crooked or broken teeth. Also, there are retainers which help to preserve and stabilize the results of your orthodontic treatment. The cost of braces varies depending on the type of braces, your location, and the procedures required to fit them.
How do I care for my braces and teeth?
While having orthodontic braces, it is really important to visit your orthodontist on a regular basis to have your teeth checked. Below you will find few things to take into consideration regarding oral hygiene:
Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and, preferably, use a mouthwash. Ask your orthodontist to recommend the fluoride toothpaste for you to use.
Clean your teeth carefully when brushing.
Avoid hard brushing because appliances are delicate and may break if you are too rough. Your orthodontist will show you the cleaning techniques appropriate for the appliance you are wearing.
Reduce your intake of sugary foods and drinks.
Try to avoid snacks containing sugars and hard foods that may damage your orthodontic appliances.
