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Why is orthodontics important?An attractive smile and improved self-image is just one of the benefits of orthodontic treatment. Left untreated, orthodontic problems can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, bone destruction, chewing and digestive difficulties, speech impairments, tooth loss and other dental injuries. Will braces hurt? Most orthodontic patients experience some discomfort the first week after their braces are put on, and right after the braces are adjusted. You can use aspirin, non-aspirin pain reliever or ibuprofen to ease the discomfort. We use the most state-of-the-art technology available which helps to keep discomfort to a mimimum. 
At what age should orthodontic treatment occur?The American Association of Orthodontists suggests a child begin seeing their orthodontist at age 7. While treatment may not be recommended at this age, an early examination allows us to monitor your child’s dental development through our growth and guidance program. Early detection can many times significantly reduce the need for removal of permanent teeth, or achieve positive orthodontic results that would not otherwise be possible once the face and jaws have finished growing. How long will I have to undergo orthodontic treatment? The time needed to undergo orthodontic treatment will vary for each patient, and always depends on how much your jaw needs to change and how far your teeth must move. We are committed to making your treatment as swift and effective as possible. 
Will I still be able to play sports?Yes. It is recommended, however, that patients protect their smiles by wearing a mouth guard when participating in any sporting activity. We recommend using a special mouthguard designed specifically for orthodontic appliances. We offer mouthguards to our patients as a complimentary benefit. Will braces interfere with playing musical instruments? No. However, there may be an initial period of adjustment. In addition, brace covers can be obtained to prevent discomfort. Are retainers necessary? How long will I have to wear one? A retainer is a device worn full or part-time after braces have been removed. The retainer is designed to prevent your teeth from drifting or moving while the bone around your teeth hardens and stabilizes. The longer you wear your retainer, the better your chances that your teeth will not relapse. Retainers provide assurance that your teeth will stay aligned while your jaw continues to grow or develop. 
Am I too old for orthodontics?About 25% of orthodontic patients today are adults. Many adults are correcting problems that were never treated when they were children, and can now experience the satisfaction of a perfect smile. As the science of orthodontics has developed gentler wires and less visible braces, adults are finding it easier to take advantage of improving their smile. Whether to enhance your appearance, or to correct a poor bite that has contributed to dental health problems, orthodontics can be very beneficial. We also offer Invisalign. A revolutionary new way to straighten teeth - without braces. Dr. Cohen has been certified to treat patients using Invisalign. Visit their homepage for more information. What is TMD/TMJ? TMJ Dysfunction is a condition of the jaw that occurs when the Temporo Mandibular Joint is misaligned or malfunctioning in a way that subjects the joint to excess pressure. TMJ can seriously affect how your mouth works and often includes side-effects such as blocked nasal passages, neck pain, headaches and difficulty chewing. What is malocclusion? The technical term for teeth that do not fit together correctly is 'malocclusion'. Most malocclusions are inherited, however, it is possible to acquire a bad bite from habits such as tongue thrusting and thumb sucking. The premature loss of baby teeth or the extraction of adult teeth can cause the development of malocclusion. Inherited malocclusions are usually caused by difference between the size of the teeth and the size of the jaw structure. Whether inherited or acquired, malocclusions affect not only the alignment of the teeth, but also the appearance of the face. How will braces change my lifestyle? Financial Investment: Whether to enhance your appearance or to correct a poor bite that has contributed to dental health problems, your financial investment in your treatment is a benefit that can last a lifetime. Our treatment fees are determined by the age of the patient and the severity of the problem. The fee includes all appliances necessary for treatment, adjustment visits, the initial set of retainers and retention care. Today, many dental insurance policies include orthodontic benefits, making orthodontic treatment more affordable than ever. Our office works closely with Orthodontists Fee Plan a lending company for orthodontic treatment. See www.orthofeeplan.com for information or to apply. Time Commitment: Due to advanced treatment methods available in orthodontics, efficiency in treatment has improved greatly within the last few years. Office visits are typically every 6 to 8 weeks depending on your treatment plan. Commitment to Good Oral Health: Your commitment to maintaining excellent oral health during your orthodontic treatment is essential. In addition to your daily routine of brushing, flossing and using fluoride, it is important that you continue to see your general dentist for regular hygiene and dental examinations while you are in orthodontic appliances. | |||
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