What is orthodontics ?

It is the dental specialty  that focuses on the development and correction of irregularities of the teeth, bite and jaws. An orthodontist also have specialized training in facial abnormalities and disorders of the jaw. You may be referred to an orthodontics by your dentist. The American Dental Association recommends that every child receives an orthodontic evaluation by the age of 7.

Why choose an orthodontics treatment.

The following  may be one of the reasons why you see an orthodontics.

• Misaligned, crooked or crowded teeth
• Open bite
• Extra teeth
• An overbite
• Missing teeth
• Misaligned or incorrect jaw position
• A disorder  of the jaw joint

At what age are braces appropriate in children ?

The ideal age for braces and orthodontic treatment in most cases is  between 10 and 14 years of age.

What are the different type of braces ?

Braces are also known as fixed orthodontic appliances. They come in 3 varieties .

• Brackets, metal or plastic, clear or tooth-colored, that are bonded to teeth.
• Lingual-type brackets that attach to the back of teeth, hidden from view.
• Bands that cover most of the teeth with metal bands that wrap around the teeth.

All the 3 use wires to push the teeth to the desired position. Clear removable teeth aligners may also be an option.

Oral health care and braces

These tips will help eliminate or reduce any oral problems while your child uses braces.

• It is important that your child brushes his teeth very well after very meal with soft-bristled toothbrush  as food becomes easily lodges in the braces. You may need a new toothbrush every  3 to 4 months or sooner if the bristles are broken or frayed.
• It is important that your child flosses between the teeth and the braces. Use a floss threader carefully to  floss the under arch wire.
•  Your child should see the dentist  or orthodontics every 6 months for cleaning.
• Limit your child’s sugar and salt intake. This is because debris left from these foods  may turn into damaging acids  which may be harmful to the  teeth and gum and promote plaque formation.
• Avoid hard and sticky snacks that may be difficult to remove  from the orthodontic equipment in your child’s mouth. These include  hard candy, popcorn, nuts and sticky foods such as chewing gum, caramel and other chewy candy.

Ask your doctor about fluoride vanish  application  around the braces to minimize  white spots on the teeth after the braces come off.