Are braces for
you? |
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Breathing or swallowing
problems – Mouth breathing can lead to snoring and
sleep apnea. |
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Crossbite – One or more
upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth (towards the tongue). |
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Crowed teeth |
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Deep Overbite – The lower
front teeth bite into the tissue of the upper teeth. |
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Disfiguring of the face & mouth
– Affects the development of the jaw and position of the teeth.
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Missing or extra teeth –
Due to tooth decay, injuries, or inherited problems. |
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Overjet (protruding upper teeth)
– Upper teeth that protrude beyond normal and are usually associated
with a short lower jaw. |
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Self-image – An attractive
smile can boost a person’s self-image and confidence. |
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Spacing between teeth –
Teeth are missing or may be too small or too large. |
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Speech, chewing or biting problems |
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Underbite (lower jaw protrusion)
– Lower jaw is longer than the upper jaw. |
Orthodontic
treatment involves three phases: |
1. |
Planning
Phase – Your first couple of visits may include the
following: |
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A medical and
dental history evaluation. |
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Castings or “molds”
of your teeth. |
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Computer generated photograph
of the head and neck that will aid in planning. |
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Photographs of your face
and mouth. |
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X-rays of the teeth and jaw. |
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After careful
planning, your orthodontist will design and apply braces or fabricate
custom-made appliances for you. |
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2. |
Active
Phase – Active treatment involves visiting your orthodontist
on a regular basis for adjustments and following specific |
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treatment requirements
to ensure successful treatment. |
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3. |
Retention
Phase – When treatment is completed, the braces and/or
appliances are removed and a new appliance is made. |
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Usually these
retainers are removable and will maintain the changes made to your
teeth if worn continuously until the teeth and |
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bone are stabilized
in their new positions. |
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Treatment and
retention times vary depending on each individual case. Your orthodontist
will ensure you have a successful |
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treatment for
a beautiful smile that can last a lifetime. |
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Orthodontics
can not only help straighten your teeth, giving you an appealing
smile, but can greatly contribute to the health of your jaw, teeth
and your overall health. |