At what age should children begin orthodontic treatment?
Unless problems in alignment are evident at an earlier age, The Canadian Association of Orthodontists recommends that children be assessed by their family dentist by age 8, when the jaw is still growing and permanent teeth have begun to come in.
Generally, treatment started early, while the bones of the face and jaw are still growing, tends to achieve better results in less time. “Interceptive” treatment, started by age 7 or 8, can help create more space in the mouth and prevent crowding, guiding the growth of permanent teeth and correcting crossbites. If you have more questions regarding your children and orthodontic treatment then contact our SW Calgary dental office.
Will your child be able to participate in sports or play musical instruments with braces?
If your child plays a contact sport, such as hockey or football, it will be necessary to wear a mouthguard. Most children are able, after a short period of adjustment to their braces, to participate in their usual activities.
Why should you consider having my teeth straightened as an adult?
- Improve their dental health since straight, evenly spaced teeth are easier to clean and are less prone to decay
- Correct malocclusion (misalignment) of the jaws that makes it difficult to chew or causes headaches, muscle tension and other aches and pains
How do braces work? How long does treatment take?
Your braces consist of brackets which are bonded to your teeth and arch wires that run between the brackets, exerting a gentle and continuous pressure on the teeth, guiding teeth into their proper positions. Elastics may be used as well to help the upper teeth align correctly with the lower teeth.
Woodcreek Dental Care in Calgary offers speed brackets to reduce the amount of time you need to wear braces. With visits every 6 weeks to ensure the progress of treatment, you can expect to wear speed braces for an average of 24 months.
Are there alternatives to the “metal mouth” look?
Depending on the kind of correction needed, we may be able to fit you with ceramic braces which can be the colour of your teeth. Dr. Hartley and the staff of Woodcreek Dental Care in Calgary will be happy to discuss the options with you.
What should you do to keep your teeth and gums healthy while wearing braces?
- Brush your teeth after every meal and floss daily.
- Use a fluoride toothpaste to prevent cavities from forming.
- Avoid sugary, sticky or chewy foods which can get stuck in your braces and promote bacterial growth.
- Make sure to visit your orthodontist every six months for thorough cleaning and dental exams.
Will you need to wear a retainer?
Once your braces are removed, your teeth will want to move back to their original positions. Wearing a retainer regularly, as instructed by your dentist, will help keep your new smile in place.
To learn more about this service & to begin your journey, Book your next visit at Woodcreek Dental Care
