What is orthodontics?

Orthodontics is a specialty of dentistry that is concerned with the study and treatment of malocclusions (improper bites), which may be a result of tooth irregularity (crooked or deformed teeth), disproportionate jaw relationships (overbite/underbite), or both.

What is an orthodontist?

An orthodontist is a specialist who has completed an advanced education program following dental school, to learn the special skills required to manage tooth movement and guide facial development. Meet Dr. Coombs, orthodontist for Coombs Orthodontics.

What are some possible benefits of orthodontics?

• Better function of the teeth
• Increased ability to clean the teeth
• Better long term health of teeth and gums
• Reduced premature wearing down of teeth
• Reduce the risk of injury to protruded front teeth
• Aid in optimizing other dental treatment
• A more attractive smile
• Reduced appearance-consciousness during critical development years
• Possible increase in self-confidence

What are some signs that braces may be needed?

• Upper front teeth protrude (stick out) excessively over the lower teeth
• Upper front teeth cover the majority of the lower teeth when biting together (deep bite)
• Upper front teeth are behind or inside the lower front teeth (underbite)
• The upper and lower front teeth do not touch when biting together (open bite)
• Crowded or overlapped teeth; the center of the upper and lower teeth do not line up
• Finger or thumb sucking habits which continue after six or seven years old
• Difficulty chewing
• Teeth wearing unevenly or excessively
• The lower jaw shifts to one side or the other when biting together
• Spaces between the teeth

At what age should orthodontic treatment occur?

The American Association of Orthodontics recommends having children evaluated by an orthodontist at age 7. At this age, several issues (including severe crowding, blocked out/impacted teeth, crossbites, severe growth deficiencies, dysfunctional tooth wear, and periodontal health) can be detected and often corrected. However, Dr. Coombs has a conservative approach to treatment and only recommends early treatment when necessary. If indicated, early treatment will allow a quick correction of the problem in as little as 4-6 months. These few braces will then be removed for a window of time, followed by full treatment with braces when all permanent teeth have erupted.

Would an adult patient benefit from orthodontics?

Orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age. Everyone wants a beautiful and healthy smile. Twenty to twenty five percent of orthodontic patients today are adults. Here at Coombs Orthodontics we have cosmetic options like clear braces and invisalign that make straightening teeth less noticeable. Come in for a free consultation and we can discuss your options.

How does orthodontic treatment work?

Braces use steady gentle pressure to gradually move teeth into their proper positions. The brackets that are placed on your teeth and the archwire that connects them are the main components. When the archwire is placed into the brackets, it tries to return to its original shape. As it does so, it applies pressure to move your teeth to their new, more ideal positions.

How long does orthodontic treatment take?

Treatment times vary on a case-by-case basis, but the average time is from 18 to 24 months. Actual treatment time can be affected by rate of growth and severity of the correction necessary. Treatment length is also dependent upon patient compliance. Maintaining good oral hygiene and keeping regular appointments are important in keeping treatment time on schedule.

Do braces hurt?

The placement of braces on your teeth does not hurt. Once your braces are placed and connected with the archwires, you may feel some soreness of your teeth for a couple days. This discomfort is considerably less than braces in the past due to innovative Nickel-Titanium wires. Your lips and cheeks may need one to two weeks to get used to the braces on your teeth. All of these minor discomforts can be well controlled with over the counter medications and remedies.

Will braces interfere with playing sports?

No. It is recommended, however, that patients protect their smiles by wearing a mouth guard when participating in any sporting activity. Our office provides these mouth guards to our patients at no additional cost.

Will braces interfere with playing musical instruments?

No. However, there may be an initial period of adjustment.

Should I see my general dentist while I have braces?

Yes, you should continue to see your general dentist every six months for regular cleanings and dental checkups.