At French Dentist we pride ourselves on offering a full range of braces using the latest technology, as well as the more traditional fixed braces. When it comes to choosing braces, our orthodontist will discuss all the options, so that you can decide what works best for you.
Orthodontic care is not just cosmetic in nature. It also can benefit long-term dental health. Straight, properly aligned teeth are easier to brush and floss. This can help reduce the risk of tooth decay. It also can help prevent gingivitis, an inflammation that damages gums. Gingivitis may lead to infection, which occurs when bacteria cluster around the area where the teeth meet the gums. Untreated gingivitis can lead to periodontitis. This type of gum disease can destroy bone that surrounds the teeth and lead to tooth loss.
People with bad bites also may chew less efficiently. Some people with a severe bite problem may even have problems getting enough nutrition. This especially may occur when the jaws are not aligned correctly. Fixing bite problems can make it easier to chew and digest foods.
When the upper and lower front teeth don't align right, people also can have speech difficulties. These can be corrected through orthodontic treatment, often combined with speech therapy.
Finally, orthodontic treatment can help to prevent premature wear of back tooth surfaces. As you bite down, your teeth withstand a tremendous amount of force. If your front teeth don't meet properly, it can cause your back teeth to wear more.
Many different types of appliances, both fixed and removable, are used to help move teeth, retrain muscles and affect the growth of the jaws. These appliances work by placing gentle pressure on the teeth and jaws. The severity of your problem will determine which orthodontic approach is likely to be the most effective.
Everyone has a slightly different bite, so treatment techniques vary. Braces are the most common approach. They help to move the teeth slowly by applying precise amounts of light pressure over a long period of time.
Most orthodontic treatments occur in two phases:
• The active phase — Braces or other appliances are used to move the teeth into proper alignment and correct the bite.
• The retention phase — A retainer's purpose is to maintain tooth positions after treatment is completed and braces are removed. Once your bite has been corrected, bone and gums need more time to stabilize around the teeth.
In addition to braces, orthodontists sometimes use special appliances (called functional appliances) to direct the growth of the jaw in young children. These appliances are rarely used in adults. That's because they are not effective after growth is complete.
Most people need to wear a brace for about 12-24 months. However, everyone is different. It all depends on your specific treatment plan, how well your teeth move and how well you
cooperate with your orthodontist. The orthodontist will show you how to take care of the brace and teeth during the brace fitting visit. But, keep in mind that brushing your teeth with braces is not very different than what you do now. It requires a little more care as you want to make sure nothing is missed.
