What is orthodontics?
Orthodontics is a special field of dentistry which focuses on establishing proper alignment of teeth and jaws consistent with a balanced facial pattern. The orthodontist utilizes braces and other corrective appliances to produce a healthy, beautiful smile.
Who practices orthodontics?
An orthodontist is a dentist who has completed an additional two to three years of additional training after dental school at an ADA accredited, university affiliated, graduate orthodontic program.
Are straight teeth just for grins?
No. Orthodontics is not merely for improving the aesthetics of the smile; orthodontic treatment improves bad bites (malocclusions). Malocclusions occur as a result of tooth or jaw misalignment. Malocclusions affect the way you smile, chew, clean your teeth or feel about your smile.
Can straight teeth improve self image?
Absolutely! Orthodontic treatment results in correctly aligned teeth that provide ideal jaw function and a great smile! Additionally, your teeth are easier to clean and more resistant to gum disease. But most importantly, orthodontic treatment almost always provides improved self-confidence.
Can you have a beautiful smile at any age?
Absolutely! A surprising percentage of our patients are adults. In fact, 25 percent of all orthodontic patients are adults. Health, happiness and self-esteem are vitally important to adults. No patient is "too old" to wear braces!
When should my child see an orthodontist?
Most malocclusions can be treated effectively once the majority of the baby teeth have been lost. However it is recommended by the American Association of Orthodontics that a child’s first evaluation by an orthodontist be done around the age of 7. If you or your family dentist suspects an orthodontic problem around age 7, an orthodontic specialist should be contacted.
What is two phase treatment?
Two-phase treatment involves correcting the alignment and position of teeth in two distinct phases of a child’s life, to better take advantage of the child’s growth spurts. It involves early, or interceptive, orthodontic treatment earlier in life, and then later, if needed, another round of treatment. Despite braces being worn twice, two-phase treatment can sometimes minimize expense and overall treatment time, and can be a good choice for many children if orthodontic problems are discovered early enough.
What are Diagnostic Records?
Records confirm Dr. Rubenstein’s diagnosis and treatment plan and serve as documentation of teeth, lips and profile when treatment is initiated. Typical records include the following:
- Panoramic Radiograph: A Panoramic Radiograph reveals the position of erupted and unerupted teeth, missing and extra teeth, general condition of bone and supporting tissue.
- Cephalometric Radiograph: The Cephalometric Radiograph is a lateral (side) picture of the head. This picture is traced and measured to illustrate the outline of the nose, lips, and chin; how the upper and lower jaw are related to the head; and how the front teeth are related to each jaw.
- Intraoral and Extraoral Photos: These photos help to evaluate facial balance, soft tissue contours, and the appearance and condition of enamel and gingival tissue.
What will be the length of treatment?
The length of treatment varies from patient to patient. It depends on the severity of the bite, degree of correction, age and the level of cooperation received. However, most cases are completed within 16-24 months. We are constantly reviewing treatment process and making efforts at each appointment to give you an update regarding you or your child’s treatment.
What if treatment is not recommended at the first appointment?
If treatment is not recommended, a follow-up appointment will be scheduled at increments of six to 24 months to monitor the child’s growth and dental development. The majority of children seen in Dr. Rubenstein’s practice should be monitored until the permanent teeth have erupted before orthodontic therapy can be initiated. This protocol limits the child to one phase of treatment and reduces both the total treatment time and cost of orthodontic treatment.