Frequently asked questions

Q: What is orthodontics?

A: Orthodontics is a specialty branch of dentistry that deals with the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. Braces are appliances normally used to correct these problems.

Q: Why is orthodontics important?

A: An attractive smile and improved self-image and self esteem are the benefits of orthodontic treatment.

Q: At what age should orthodontic treatment occur?

A: Orthodontic treatment can be started at any age. Many orthodontic problems are easier to correct if detected at an early age before jaw growth has slowed. Early treatment may mean that a patient can avoid surgery and more serious complications. Most orthodontic treatment starts at around 11 -13 years of age. This is because it is not till this age that all the adult teeth have erupted. When all the teeth are through the arrangement of the teeth can be assessed and treatment commenced if required.

Q: What is a malocclusion?

A: Malocclusion literally means bad bite. Most malocclusions are inherited, however, it is possible to acquire a bad bite from habits such as tongue thrusting and thumb sucking. The premature loss of baby teeth or the extraction of adult teeth can also cause the development of malocclusion.

Q: Will braces hurt?

A: Most patients experience some discomfort the first week after their braces are put on and immediately after their braces are tightened. Paracetamol pain reliever or ibuprofen can be used to ease the discomfort.

Q: What can I eat with braces?

A: Most foods can be enjoyed just as before you got your braces. Hard, crunchy and sticky foods can damage braces and should be avoided.

Q: Why do baby teeth sometimes need to be pulled?

A: Pulling baby teeth may be necessary to allow severely crowded permanent teeth to come in at a normal time in a normal location. If the teeth are severely crowded, some permanent teeth will either remain impacted (teeth that should have come in, but have not), or come in to an undesirable position. To allow severely crowded teeth to move on their own into much more desirable positions, sequential removal of baby teeth and permanent teeth (usually first premolars) can dramatically improve a severe crowding problem. This sequential extraction of teeth, called serial extraction, is typically followed by comprehensive orthodontic treatment after tooth eruption has improved as much as it can on its own.

Q: Will I still be able to play sports?

A: Yes. It is recommended, however, that patients protect their smiles by wearing a mouth guard when participating in any sporting activity. Mouth guards are inexpensive, comfortable, and come in a variety of colours and patterns.

Q: Will braces interfere with playing musical instruments?

A: No. However, there may be an initial period of adjustment. In addition, brace covers can be provided to prevent discomfort.

Q: Can you be too old for braces?

A: No. Age is not a factor, however, there are advantages to treating young people while they are still growing. About 25% of orthodontic patients in the United States are adults. If you are an adult considering orthodontic work, that treatment has changed a great deal in the last few years. Braces are more comfortable and more effective today. You can get braces in the tradition silver colour, or with much less visible clear brackets.

Q: Why are retainers needed after orthodontic treatment?

A: After braces are removed, teeth can shift out of position if they are not stabilized. Retainers provide that stabilization and are designed to hold teeth in their corrected, ideal positions until the bones and gums adapt to the treatment changes. Wearing retainers exactly as instructed is the best insurance that the treatment improvements last for a lifetime. Retainers are for life.