What is orthodontics?
Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that specializes in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. The technical term for these problems is "malocclusion," which means "bad bite." The practice of orthodontics requires professional skill in the design, application and control of corrective appliances, such as braces, to bring teeth, lips and jaws into proper alignment and to achieve facial balance. top
When should my child see an orthodontist?
Every person is a little different. However, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends age 7 as an appropriate time for a child's first evaluation by an orthodontic specialist. If you or your family dentist suspect an orthodontic problem before age 7, an orthodontic specialist should be contacted for an earlier evaluation. top
Isn't seven years of age too early?
Not really. Early diagnosis and treatment by the orthodontist can help tooth eruption, guide facial growth, and therefore, prevent more serious problems from occurring. Also, by lessening the problems, later orthodontic treatment may be reduced, made easier, and in some cases more economical. top
These are just a few of the early indications that orthodontic problems may exist.
top
Will additional jaw growth allow for self-correction of crowded teeth or other bite problems?
Usually not. The jaws grow in the back to allow for the eruption of 12-year molars and wisdom teeth, but not in the front. In most children, the available space decreases as larger permanent teeth erupt.
Either in a child or an adult, when left untreated, orthodontic problems usually become worse. Treatment by an orthodontist to correct bite problems is often less costly than the additional dental care required to treat the more serious problems that can develop later in life. top
What are the benefits of braces?
First, having straight teeth that fit together properly improves function. Your teeth and jaw joints can work more effectively, sometimes reducing inappropriate wear.
Second, having straight teeth often makes it easier for you and your dental team to keep them clean.
Third, should you ever need a filling, crown or bridge, your dentist can usually do a better restoration if the teeth are aligned properly.
And fourth, the appearance of the teeth and face is improved. Having a pleasing smile improves an individual's self-image, confidence and provides a feeling of acceptance in our daily activities. top
How does orthodontic care improve self-image?
Scientific research has repeatedly shown the mouth and face to be focal points of communication and social interaction. Appearance has been related to personal relationships, social behaviors, self-expectation, personality style and self-image. There can be little doubt that an attractive facial appearance and smile can improve the quality of life in many dimensions. The orthodontist considers all factors of facial and dental appearance in planning an individual's treatment. top
I see quite a few adults with braces. Is this a growing trend?
About 20% of our patients are adults. This trend is expected to continue, as adults become increasingly aware of the benefits of modern orthodontic therapy. Technical advances in treatment have also accelerated the trend toward orthodontics for adults. top
What technical advances have accelerated this trend??
Porcelain technology has produced small tooth colored brackets that are barely noticeable. Specially alloyed wires are more comfortable, can speed up treatment, and may decrease the number of necessary appointments. Retainers are smaller and more comfortable. Also, in selected cases, combined orthodontics and advanced surgical techniques can dramatically improve facial harmony after growth is completed. top
Why do people choose to have braces during adulthood?
Many of our adult patients are being treated for orthodontic problems that were not corrected when they were children. These individuals realize that improving the health of their mouth and the attractiveness of their smile and facial appearance often results in changes for the better in their personal, social and professional lives. top
Am I too old to have braces?
For those who can benefit from orthodontics, age is not a factor. You are never too old. In fact, many people in their mature or senior years have orthodontics as part of a comprehensive strategy to replace missing teeth or increase the longevity of their natural teeth. You can choose to spend the rest of your life with straight teeth and an attractive smile. top
Is it really worth it at my age?
The best answers come from adults who have completed orthodontic therapy. Comments include:
"I would gladly do it again,"
"I'm happy with the results,"
"I smile more,"
"I've become more confident," and
"I feel so much better about myself now."
These are men and women who have taken responsibility for their own well being, and know that their best investment is usually in themselves. top
Is it necessary that I have a referral to Dr. Dormanen?
While many patients are referred by their family dentist, a steadily increasing portion of our practice is referred by others who have benefited from orthodontics. Of course, we appreciate and welcome recommendations from our friends and patients. In all cases, however, we are careful to communicate and coordinate care with your family dentist to ensure that you receive the very best comprehensive treatment.
top
How do braces work?
Braces include brackets, which are bonded directly to the tooth or sometimes attached to a band placed on a molar tooth, and archwires that connect all the brackets. Unlike what most people think, it is the archwire that does all the work - the brackets merely serve as handles! The wires use a steady, gentle pressure to move teeth into their proper positions. Much like moving a stick through sand, as the tooth moves, bone gives way on one side and fills in on the other side. It is truly amazing. Rubber bands are sometimes worn to help the wires do their job and align the upper teeth with the lower teeth. top
How long does treatment take?
In general, active treatment time with orthodontic appliances ranges from 18 - 24 months. The actual treatment time depends on the severity of the problem, the growth of the face and jaws and the cooperation of the patient. Some problems may require less time. It is also important to remember that some individuals simply respond faster to treatment than others do. top
Is orthodontic care expensive?
Orthodontic care often eliminates the need for other dental and medical treatment, thus reducing future health care cost. Considering that the benefits of the orthodontic care can last a lifetime, the cost is quite modest. top
Do I have to pay for orthodontic care all at once?
As a service to our patients, we provide a flexible payment plan for your orthodontic care. However, some people choose to pay the full amount in advance to take advantage of the discount they receive when billing and bookkeeping costs are eliminated. top
Do you accept my orthodontic insurance?
Yes. We participate in nearly all bonafide dental insurance plans and are eager to help you receive the maximum benefit from your plan. Please remember that most plans pay only a portion of your fee. You are, of course, responsible for any amount not covered by your plan. top
How often will I need office visits?
Once appliances are in place, routine office visits are at seven week intervals. Periodically, we will need to check you sooner if, for example, we are working on something special. When treatment is complete, retainer adjustment visits are spaced further apart until finally follow up adjustments are not needed. top
When will my appointments be scheduled?
We share your concern about missing school or work and schedule appointments so that each patient receives a fair proportion of late afternoon appointments. We try to minimize the number of appointments that are necessary in the morning and excuses are provided when needed. top
Should I continue to see my family dentist while in braces?
Definitely! It is very important to continue your regular dental checkups to prevent or detect dental decay, and to monitor the health of the supporting structures. Periodic professional dental cleaning by your dentist or dental hygienist will maintain overall dental health and prevent dental disease. top
How important is cooperation?
Extremely important! In order to achieve the very best orthodontic result, a real team effort on the part of the orthodontist, the family dentist and the patient is essential.
Proper oral hygiene is one of the patient's main responsibilities and is especially important during orthodontic treatment. Your orthodontist's team will provide you with techniques on tooth brushing and how to care for your teeth and braces. Patients who take care of their braces by keeping their teeth clean; avoid hard, sticky foods; wear their rubber bands or other appliances as instructed; and keep their appointments usually finish treatment on time with good results.
Regular visits to the family dentist must continue during orthodontic treatment because good dental care and proper fluoride applications remain important. top
What are retainers?
Retainers do exactly what their name says: they retain or hold your teeth from moving out of alignment, usually after braces have been removed. Some retainers are fixed in place, but usually they are removable to make cleaning them and your teeth easier. Some removable appliances are specially designed to move your teeth or align jaws and probably should not be called "retainers," although for convenience, they often are. top
Are retainers necessary? How long will I have to wear one?
A retainer is a device worn full or part-time after braces have been removed. The retainer is designed to prevent your teeth from drifting or moving while the bone around your teeth hardens and stabilizes. The longer you wear your retainer, the better your chances that your teeth will not relapse. Retainers provide assurance that your teeth will stay in alignment while your jaw continues to grow or develop. Retainers are really forever! top
What is TMJ?
TMJ Dysfunction is a condition of the jaw that occurs when the Temporo Mandibular Joint is misaligned or malfunctioning in a way that subjects the joint to excess pressure. TMJ can seriously affect how your mouth works and often includes side-effects such as blocked nasal passages, neck pain, headaches and difficulty chewing. top
Will braces correct TMJ or jaw joint problems?
Because there are so many factors that may be contributing to jaw joint problem, braces may or may not improve the situation. When a significant problem exists, other conservative modalities are tried first to stabilize the situation and determine the actual problem or diagnosis. Braces are only sometimes used in TMJ treatment. top
Do all wisdom teeth need to be removed?
No. We believe that wisdom teeth that are not causing problems and are not likely to be a future problem can and should be retained. Nevertheless, most people are well-served by having the wisdom teeth removed. top
What should be done about my wisdom teeth?
Be sure to have regular check-ups by your family dentist. He or she will evaluate the wisdom teeth and recommend removal if necessary. If the wisdom teeth should be removed, your family dentist may, in some cases, recommend an oral surgeon.
top
1. Decay/Decalcification - Your teeth may decay underneath orthodontic bands if the bands are loose. At each appointment we make certain that your bands are tight. However, if you notice a loose band, call us as soon as possible so that we can set up a repair appointment. A more frequent problem, but one that you can easily prevent, is decalcification or staining of the teeth. This may occur on areas of a tooth adjacent to a bracket or band if you do not brush your teeth thoroughly after each meal. So you see, preventing this problem is pretty simple, and it is up to you.
2. Heat and Cold - During orthodontic treatment, you may find that you are sensitive to heat and cold. This is caused by the movement of your teeth; it is seldom due to decay.
3. Musical Instruments - Playing a wind instrument won't interfere with your orthodontic treatment unless you practice many hours a day. At first the appliance may irritate your lips. If this becomes a problem, please let us know.
4. MouthGuards - If you need a mouthguard for your sport activities, we will be happy to provide it.
5. Other Dentistry - The fees for orthodontic treatment do not include any treatment in other dental offices such as cleaning, examinations, x-rays, restorations, or the removal of teeth. Our patients are expected to visit their dentist at least every six months for their routine check-ups. top
What happens if we move during treatment?
Changing orthodontists during treatment requires additional planning. We will help you make the transition go as smoothly as possible. With the help of a national directory, we can give you a recommendation for an orthodontist in the town or city to which you are moving. top
Will a move prolong orthodontic treatment time?
The treatment time will generally take longer than estimated when a transfer is made during active treatment. Treatment takes longer because the new orthodontist must do a complete evaluation with recent models and x-rays. Additionally, it may take a few months for the new orthodontist to become familiar with the patient's response to treatment. top
What effect will a move have on my fee contract?
Overall treatment costs will generally be increased when there is a transfer of care because of the expense of progress diagnosis and treatment planning and the added length in treatment time. Our office will calculate the amount of the original fee agreement that we have earned and will contact you regarding any balance owed to us or to you. top
What should I do after arriving at our new residence?
When you have completed your move, make contact with the new orthodontist as soon as possible to avoid any additional delay in treatment. When you check in with the new orthodontist, decide if you are happy with the referral, or if you want to get a second opinion. We would rather not send your records and treatment summary until you are satisfied with the new orthodontist. Once an acceptable office has been found, the orthodontist will request a transfer report from our office and we will mail your records as quickly as possible. top
