An orthodontist receives special training to fix misaligned teeth. An orthodontist must first complete regular dental training and then has an extra four years of specialty training in orthodontics. If you have misalignment in your teeth and/or jaw, a dentist will refer you to an orthodontist.
As permanent teeth begin to replace baby (or primary) teeth, we recommend an orthodontic evaluation. This typically takes place by 7 years of age and the American Association of Orthodontists suggests that children receive an examination by an orthodontist no later than this age.
The orthodontist will look at your child’s teeth, face and jaws to determine proper growth and development. X-rays may be given if recent ones aren’t available or don’t provide the proper angels necessary for evaluation. We are specifically looking at tooth placement, bite and jaw alignment, and the overall development of the mouth and face. If a problem exists, or if one is developing, the orthodontist will advise you on treatment options.
It’s important to remember that orthodontic treatment is a service and not a product. When you purchase orthodontic kits that allow you to perform orthodontic treatment at home, you’re taking on risks that your mouth and bone structure may not respond as anticipated. At home treatment does not begin with a comprehensive evaluation of your orthodontic condition. No x-rays are taken, overlying issues aren’t addressed, and a professional assessment isn’t made that may include more than one type of solution. Additionally, should problems arise during orthodontic treatment, it’s best to have a trained professional who can evaluate your progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed.
We provide many different orthodontic treatment options which are personalized to the specific situation of each patient. There are times when several options may be available while some treatments may have only one. Each plan is based on the patient’s age, their activities, the underlying orthodontic issue being treated and other factors such as cost.
If a wire, bracket, or band breaks or becomes loose, you will need to take care of it as soon as possible. If the bracket is still attached to your wire, leave it in place and try not to touch it until your repair appointment. If a piece of your braces falls out, bring it with you to your repair appointment. If any part of your braces is causing you discomfort, you can cover them with a piece of dental wax until your appointment.
As braces move your teeth, you may experience minor soreness in your teeth or gums. This is normal! It means that your braces are working and moving your teeth. Most discomfort is very mild and should fade within a few days. To help ease discomfort, you can try using a warm salt water rinse or over the counter medicine such as Tylenol or Advil.
If you have a wire poking your gums, you can take a small amount of your dental wax and place it on the piece of wire that is poking you.
If a wire, bracket, or band breaks or becomes loose, you will need to take care of it as soon as possible. If the bracket is still attached to your wire, leave it in place and try not to touch it until your repair appointment. If a piece of your braces falls out, bring it with you to your repair appointment. If any part of your braces is causing you discomfort, you can cover them with a piece of dental wax until your appointment.
Flossing with braces will require a little more time than your normal flossing. Flossing is very important to make sure you get all food particles from around your brackets and in between your teeth. You may want to use a floss threader to help slide the floss between the wire and your teeth. We recommend you floss every night before bed.
Phase 1 is offered here at Morristown Pediatric Dentistry to better serve you and your child! Please ask our staff for a consultation!
