Braces

What are braces?

Braces are the most efficient and accurate way of moving or aligning the teeth.

Why to get braces?

A good smile is important to many people along with the functionality of your teeth and bite. Your overall appearance can change too depending on the situation of your orthodontic needs Getting braces is a decision that is faced by most people at sometime in their life. While some are lucky enough to have straight teeth through genetics and luck, the rest of us will commit to modern orthodontics to get the smile we want.

Who are braces specialists?

An orthodontist is specialized to place the braces. Prof. Dr Amesh Golwara (orthodontist) handles the braces cases at Reasons 2 Smile Dental Clinic.

What is the procedure of braces treatment?

Braces (bands, brackets and wires) are usually made of stainless steel although clear brackets are available, usually at extra cost. Fitting the braces usually involves two visits. Braces remain on the teeth for the entire duration of treatment.

Patients then visits approximately every 4-8 weeks for adjustments, wire changes, Rubber Bands , etc

During treatment, patients may need to wear such items as rubber bands and/or headgear with their braces. These items provide important extra forces for the correction of the bite.

What is the treatment duration?

Orthodontic treatment usually takes 18 - 24 months. Some cases may be finished earlier and others may take longer to complete. The total treatment time depends on the severity of the original malocclusion, the type of treatment carried out, and the co-operation of the patient.

What are different types of braces available?

We provide metal braces, tooth colored ceramic braces, lingual(back side of tooth) braces, clear braces or invisible braces.

What are metal braces?

Metal braces are actually stainless steel, sometimes in combination with nickel titanium, and are the most widely used.

What are ceramic or tooth colored braces?

Typically, these brackets are made of ceramic or plastic materials and function in a similar manner to traditional metal brackets. Clear elastic ties and white metal ties are available to be used with these clear braces to help keep the appliances less conspicuous. So your braces may get unnoticed by others.

What are lingual braces?

Lingual braces (Incognito Braces) are custom made fixed braces bonded to the back of the teeth making them invisible to other people. In lingual braces the brackets are cemented onto the backside of the teeth making them invisible while in standard braces the brackets are cemented onto the front side of the teeth. Hence, lingual braces are a cosmetic alternative to those who do not wish to have the unaesthetic metal look but wish to improve their smile.

What are invisible braces or invisaligner?

Invisalign aligners are the clear alternative to metal braces for adults and teens. These clear aligners are the virtually invisible way to improve your smile. Invisalign treatment is the process of wearing a series of clear, removable aligners that gradually straighten your teeth. No brackets and wires, and none of the restrictions that come with metal braces.

What are main advantage of clear aligners?

As they are made of transparent plastics so they are invisible and also can be removed by patient any time. You can remove them to eat and drink, to brush and floss, or for special occasions. There are no metal brackets or wires that could irritate your mouth or break, sending you to your doctor for an emergency visit.

At what age should a child have an orthodontic examination?

Generally at Age 7, unless you suspect a problem at an earlier age, because most facial asymmetries are likely to be apparent by that time. A timely screening will lead to extraordinary treatment benefits.

Why is the growth spurt at puberty so important in orthodontics?

This is the time when much of the development of the face occurs. Treatment during this period allows the orthodontist to favorably influence the facial profile in a growing child. Once growth of the facial bones is complete, correction of skeletal discrepancies usually requires surgery.

Why are children being evaluated at such an early age?

Early diagnosis and treatment can guide erupting teeth into a more favorable position, preserve space for the permanent teeth and reduce the likelihood of protruded front teeth. Also, early treatment may shorten treatment time, make treatment easier and in some cases less expensive. It may even provide advantages that are not available later.

Is orthodontic care expensive?

Orthodontic therapy may eliminate the need for other medical and dental treatment. The physical and psychological benefits usually last a lifetime, which makes orthodontics one of the best investments in healthcare and quality of life.

What is the psychological impact of early treatment?

Appearance has been related to popularity, social behaviors, self-expectation, personality style, and self-esteem. Orthodontic therapy may lessen the likelihood that a child will be picked on by other children. Treatment may reduce appearance-consciousness and the emotional distress that can occur during critical developmental years. Also, as adolescents enter the sensitive teenage years, they become far less receptive to orthodontic therapy.

In addition to esthetic improvements, what are some other benefits of orthodontic therapy?

Additional benefits may include better function, improved cleanability, more favorable wear patterns and greater longevity of natural teeth.

What's the problem with waiting until the permanent teeth erupt to refer?

The problem may be one of opportunities missed with respect to growth and development. While patients can be treated at any age, those with available growth may enjoy a substantial advantage. Timely treatment may prevent the need for jaw surgery, extraction of permanent teeth, or fracture of protruded incisors. Early treatment may also help the psychological development. Patients also benefit from guidance of tooth eruption.

At what age is a patient too old for orthodontics?

Patients who have teeth and healthy supporting structures are never too old for orthodontic therapy. Age is not a factor.

Why are adults seeking orthodontics in increasing numbers?

Many adults are receiving orthodontic care that was not available to them as children. They realize that improving the health of their mouths and the attractiveness of their smiles and facial appearances can result in changes for the better in their personal, social, and professional lives.