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What is orthodontics?
Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry
that specializes in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment
of dental and facial irregularities.
What are the benefits
of orthodontic treatment?
In addition to a nice smile, we are also
concerned with the health of your teeth and gums. Crooked
teeth and bad bites can seriously affect general oral
health.
At what age should
my child be examined to determine if they will benefit
from orthodontics?
The British Orthodontic Society recommends
that every child visit an orthodontist by age eight
to nine for a general screening - or earlier if a problem
is detected by parents, the family dentist, or the child's
physician.
What is an orthodontist?
An orthodontist is a specialist who has
completed an advanced education program (usually a 3
year full time postgraduate course) following dental
school, to learn the special skills required to manage
tooth movement and guide facial development.
Would an adult patient
benefit from orthodontics?
Orthodontic treatment can be successful
at any age! Everyone wants a beautiful and healthy smile.
At Harley Street Orthodontics about fifty to sixty percent
of our orthodontic patients are adults.
How long does orthodontic
treatment take?
Treatment times vary on a case by case
basis, but the average time is from one to three years.
Actual treatment time can be affected by rate of growth,
cooperation of the patient, and the severity of the
correction necessary.
What is jaw surgery?
Jaw (or orthognathic) surgery involves
the combined effort of the orthodontist and an maxillo-facial
surgeon. In some cases, the jaw bones are positioned
in a way that makes it difficult, if not impossible,
to obtain good results with orthodontics alone.
When is jaw surgery
needed?
The most common problems corrected with
jaw surgery include a protruding upper jaw (which sometimes
causes a “gummy smile”), a protruding lower
jaw, or a recessive lower jaw. Dramatic improvements
in facial features, as well as straight teeth, can be
obtained when surgery is done in conjunction with orthodontic
treatment.
What is TMJ PDS or
TMD?
Temporo-mandibular Joint Dysfunction
or Pain Dysfunction Syndrome known as TMD or TMJ PDS,
is commonly described as pain or discomfort, clicking,
or locking in the jaw joint. Symptoms may include headaches
or soreness in the jaw area.
What kind of treatment
is available for TMD?
At Harley Street Orthodontics we like
to refer our patients to a TMJ specialist. A range of
treatment procedures are used depending on the signs
and symptoms but patients should refrain from destructive
behaviour that may aggravate or increase TMD pain. For
example, patients should avoid chewing gum, nail biting,
clenching and grinding of the teeth.
How can I find out
if my child or myself will benefit from orthodontic,
orthognathic or TMD treatment?
Call our office for an initial examination
appointment. Dr. Joffe or Dr. Saini will identify, evaluate
and prioritize your orthodontic needs by conduction
a thorough orthodontic exam. They will then determine
what treatment (if any) is necessary, as well as provide
information on length of treatment and cost. For orthoganthic
treatments, we need the input and skills of a Maxillo-Facial
Surgeon and for TMD problems, we will give you the name
of our TMD specialist.
How much does treatment
cost and what kind of payment arrangements are available?
Fitting orthodontic treatment into a
budget can be quite simple and manageable today. We
offer several payment options and accept all major debit
and credit cards. We also have an OrthoWorld Payment
Plan, which allows for a more tailored option and a
greater spread of payment time. A financial charge is
added to this plan.
Should I see my general
dentist while I have braces?
Yes, you should continue to see your
general dentist every 6 months for cleanings and dental
checkups.
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