Another wonderful “mini-revolution” in orthodontics is the self-ligating bracket (brace). These are braces placed traditionally, on the front side of teeth however they are much smaller, more comfortable and aesthetic than braces of the past. A brace basically acts as a handle on the tooth which is used to move it. The wire that goes into the brace is what does the moving. Traditionally what has connected the two is a metal or elastic ligature while self-ligating braces use a slide mechanism to hold the wire into the brace. This decreases friction in the system allowing the teeth to move more freely, quickly and comfortably. These braces are also easier to keep clean. Without the elastic ties which attract and collect plaque, self-ligating braces make dental hygiene during treatment much easier. We have been using this type of brace in our practice for approximately three years and have seen a great improvement in treatment efficiency with a decrease in treatment time and number of office visits required to complete active treatment. In addition, because we’re moving teeth with less friction, we are able to use lighter forces and achieve changes in the jaws that previously would have required palate expanders or jaw surgery.
Something that has not changed recently in orthodontics is the recommended age that a child should first be seen by an orthodontist. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that this be at age 7. Though only some of the permanent teeth are erupted at this age, subtle problems with jaw growth and erupting teeth can be detected. There is a strong chance that a patient of this age will be placed on “observation recall” to initiate treatment when more permanent teeth come in, however, some problems are easier to correct if found and addressed early. Early treatment may prevent more serious problems from developing and may make treatment at a later age shorter and less complicated. For each patient who needs treatment there is an ideal time for it to begin in order to achieve the best results. Early intervention gives the orthodontist the chance to:
- Guide jaw growth
- Lower the risk of trauma to protruded front teeth
- Improve appearance and self-esteem if a child is being teased
- Guide permanent teeth into a more favorable position
- Improve the way lips meet
It’s not always easy for parents to tell if their child has an orthodontic problem. Here are some signs or habits that may indicate the need for an orthodontic examination:
- Early or late loss of baby teeth
- Difficulty in chewing or biting
- Mouth breathing
- Thumb sucking
- Finger sucking
- Crowding, misplaced or blocked out teeth
- Jaws that shift or make sounds
- Biting the cheek or roof of the
- Jaws and teeth that are out of proportion to the rest of the face
- Teeth that meet abnormally or not at all
If any of these problems are noted by parents, regardless of age, it is advisable to consult an orthodontist. It is not necessary to wait until age 7.
For more information on Dr. Podhouser or Orthodontic Associates visit www.bracesofmaine.com
