 Braces
for children/adults
Braces are the most efficient and
accurate way of moving teeth.
The first consultation
During this visit the
patient is examined clinically by
the Orthodontist, DR. SUNIL
KHOSLA. This enables him
to give advice on the treatment
options available, when treatment
should commence, the duration of
treatment, and the approximate cost.
If the patient decides to proceed
with treatment, an appointment is
made to collect records.
Records include:
• Impressions from which plaster
models of the teeth are constructed.
• Photographs of the teeth
and face.
• X-rays of the teeth and
jaws.
Records allow the
orthodontist to analyze each case
accurately. They are also used to
record the existing malocclusion
for future reference.
Treatment Planning
At this visit the orthodontist
discusses the treatment plan(s),
which have been formulated using
information obtained from the first
consultation and records.
Then, arrangements are made to commence
treatment or, if it is too early,
to review the patient periodically
until it is an appropriate time
to commence treatment.
Extractions and other preliminary
procedures
Sometimes it is necessary
to remove teeth to gain sufficient
space to align the remaining teeth.
Any decayed teeth should be filled
and the teeth sometimes need to
be cleaned before orthodontic treatment
is started.
The patient is referred back to
the family dentist to have these
preliminary procedures carried out.
The cost of these procedures is
not included in the orthodontic
fee.
Braces
Braces are the most efficient and
accurate way of moving teeth.
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 attend approximately
every 4-8 weeks for adjustments,
wire changes, etc.
Rubber Bands and Headgear
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.
How Long?
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.
Dental check-ups
Orthodontic patients should
continue to attend their family
dentist for regular check-ups during
the course of orthodontic treatment.
Retention
At the completion of the
active part of orthodontic
treatment, the braces are
removed and retaining appliances
(retainers) are fitted to hold the
teeth steady in their new position.
These appliances may be removable
plates or wires fitted behind the
teeth.
Retainers play an important role
in orthodontic treatment for, if
they are not worn according to instructions,
the teeth may move back towards
their original position.
The retaining appliances are usually
worn:
• Full-time for up to one
year
• Just at night for a further
year
• Phased out altogether over
one more year The corrected teeth
are observed periodically for up
to five years after the
retainers have been phased out.
During retention and the subsequent
observation period, patients are
expected to attend
once
Removable
appliances
Removable appliances are
popular and frequently-used chosen
method in the treatment of occlusion
for those patients who have a
simple problem, or who do not
wish to have a prolonged treatment.
It offers an economic method
of treatment, though not as effective
as fixed braces.
Orthodontics for Adults
Q.
At what age is a patient too old
for orthodontics?
A. Patients
who have teeth and healthy supporting
structures are never too old for
orthodontic therapy. Age is not
a factor.
Q.
How can I tactfully approach an
adult patient who could benefit
from orthodontics?
A. Ask
the question: "Are you happy
with the appearance of your teeth?"
This will be your guide to further
development of the conversation.
Q.
Why are adults seeking orthodontics
in increasing numbers?
A. 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. Technical
advances have also had an impact
on adult therapy.
Q.
What are some of those advances?
A. Advanced
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. New retainers can
be placed where they do not show.
Also, advanced surgical techniques
now allow treatment of many skeletal
problems after growth is completed. |
