FACTS AND INFORMATION
More than 4 million people in Canada and the United States are in the
care of an orthodontist and looking forward to a beautiful, healthy smile
that's good for life. The obvious potential reward is straighter teeth that
are less prone to decay and injury. But just as important is the boost to
self-confidence that a better smile can provide. As you prepare to make
decisions about orthodontics, it's very important to be armed with the facts.
Here's a checklist of what to keep in mind:
Why is orthodontics important?
Orthodontics can boost a person's self-image as the teeth, jaws and lips
become properly aligned, but an attractive smile is just one of the benefits.
Alleviating or preventing physical health problems is just as important.
Without treatment, orthodontic problems may lead to tooth decay, gum
disease, bone destruction and chewing and digestive difficulties. A "bad
bite" can contribute to speech impairments, tooth loss, chipped teeth
and other dental injuries. Back to Top
What is orthodontics?
Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that specializes in the diagnosis,
prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. The technical
term for these problems is "malocclusion," which means "bad
bite." The practice of orthodontics requires the professional skill
in the design, application and control of corrective appliances (braces)
to bring teeth, lips and jaws into proper alignment and achieve facial balance.
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What is the Canadian Association of Orthodontists?
The Canadian Association of Orthodontists is a professional association
of educationally qualified orthodontic specialists dedicated to advancing
the art and science of orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics, improving
the health of the public by promoting quality orthodontic care, and supporting
the successful practice of orthodontics. Back to Top
Who is an Orthodontist?
Your orthodontist is a specialist in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment
of dental and facial irregularities. Orthodontists must first attend college,
then complete a 4 year graduate program at a dental school in a university
or other institution accredited by the Canadian Dental Association. They
must then successfully complete an additional residency program of at least
two-three academic years of advanced education in orthodontics, again accredited
by the CDA. This advanced training includes such diverse studies as genetics,
embryology, human growth and development, and biophysics. Only dentists
with this advanced specialty education can present themselves as orthodontists.
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What is the benefit of Orthodontics? - In fact, the results are more
than you can see!!
You already know that braces straighten teeth. But what you may not know
is that a beautiful smile is just one of the benefits orthodontics has to
offer. Bringing teeth, lips and jaws into proper alignment not only produces
a great smile, but a healthy one as well. Straight teeth simply function
better and are easier to clean.
And last but far from least is the increased confidence and self-esteem
that a healthy smile provides. This psychological benefit can be a significant
factor in the decision to undergo treatment and is often listed as a patient's
#1 treatment goal. A beautiful smile is a pleasure to own and a pleasure
to see.
So remember: an attractive smile is just the start. Improved oral health
and general well-being are important treatment goals as well.
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What is a Malocclusion?
It may be a new word to you. "Malocclusion" is a technical term
for crooked, crowded or protruding teeth which do not fit together properly.
Literally, the word means "bad bite." Most malocclusions are inherited.
These include crowding of teeth, too much space between teeth, extra or
missing teeth, cleft palate and a variety of irregularities of the jaws
and face. Some malocclusions are acquired. They can be caused by thumb-sucking,
tongue thrusting, dental disease, premature loss of primary or permanent
teeth, accidents or some medical problems. Left untreated, these orthodontic
problems can become worse. Crooked and crowded teeth are hard to clean and
maintain. This may contribute to conditions that may cause tooth decay,
eventual gum disease and tooth loss. A bad bite can also cause abnormal
wear of tooth surfaces, difficulty in chewing and excess stress of the supporting
bone and gum tissue. Back to Top
Who can benefit from orthodontics?
At one time, most people believed braces were "just for kids."
The fact is, that of the thousands of Canadians now in orthodontic treatment,
more than one of every four is over 21. Because the basic process involved
in moving teeth is the same in adults as in children, orthodontic treatment
can usually be successful at any age. The health of the teeth, the gums
and the supporting bones will also determine the prospects for improvement.
So who can benefit? Most anyone, really. The truth is you're never too
old to be your best. Regardless of age, orthodontic treatment is always
a change for the better.
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When should my child first see an orthodontist?
The AAO recommends that every child should see an orthodontist no later
than age 7. In some cases, this could be as young as 2 or 3. Many orthodontic
problems are easier to correct if detected early rather than waiting until
jaw growth has slowed. Early treatment may mean a patient will avoid surgery
or other more serious corrections later in life. Back to Top
Is it ever too late for a person to get braces?
No. Because healthy teeth can be moved at any age, an orthodontist can improve
the smile of practically anyone - in fact, orthodontists regularly treat
patients in their 50s, 60s and older!
For "Good Beginnings," the AAO's free brochure on early orthodontic
diagnosis, or for brochures on adult orthodontics and many other topics,
call 1-800-STRAIGHT (1-800-787-2444). Or write the AAO at 401 N. Lindbergh
Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63141-7816, or e-mail address: aaortho@worldnet.att.net.
Back to Top
What makes an orthodontist different from a dentist?
Orthodontists are the dental specialists who correct dental and facial irregularities,
day in and day out. An orthodontist is expert at moving teeth, helping jaws
develop properly and working with the patient to help make sure the teeth
stay in their new positions.
CAO members are uniquely qualified to correct "bad bites."
The Canadian Dental Association requires orthodontists to have at least
two years of post-doctoral, advanced specialty training in orthodontics
in an accredited program, after graduation from college and then dental
school. Back to Top
What about costs?
While it's important to keep in mind the lifetime value that orthodontics
offers, we know you have specific cost questions, so don't be afraid to
ask. You may discover the price tag is considerably lower than you ever
thought. Cost, of course, depends on the nature of the problem. Many orthodontic
problems require only limited treatment.
Your orthodontist will be happy to discuss fees. He or she may offer
payment plans to help meet individual fmancial needs. In addition, many
dental insurance plans now include orthodontic benefits for just a few dollars
a month. Back to Top
Should I ask to talk to present and/or former patients?
It is wise for a consumer to investigate the value of any product or service.
Most orthodontic patients will give it to you straight -- orthodontics is
one of the best investments they've ever made. Better self-esteem and better
oral health are benefits that can last a lifetime.
A CAO member will be glad to have you talk to current or former patients,
who can tell you firsthand how braces have improved their lives.
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Who can recommend an orthodontist?
Finding an orthodontist for you or your child is really quite easy. You
can call the Canadian Association of Orthodontists (416) 491-3186 or the
American Association of Orthodontists at their toll-free number, 1-800-STRAIGHT.
Upon request, the AAO will furnish you with more information on orthodontics.
Your family dentist can also help with a recommendation and with more information
on orthodontics. As you consider your options, keep in mind that members
of the Canadian and American Associations of Orthodontists are orthodontic
specialists. They have met the exacting standards of education and experience
set by the Canadian and American Dental Associations and required by the
AAO for membership. CAO/AAO membership is your assurance of quality care
and the highest professional standards.
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