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Frequently
Asked Questions 1.
How long does orthodontic treatment usually take?
A standard period of time is a 24 month period. Teeth move very slowly. After the braces are removed, you have to wear retainers until you stop growing. Dr. Thompson works with the retainers to create a stable bite. With adults who have had orthodontic treatment, it may take longer than two years of retainer wear. In children, they have to wear their retainer until they stop growing. 2. What can I not eat? There are many things that you should not chew on while you have treatment. Sticky things and chewy items, like gum, bend and break the wires. Hard items, like ice, will break the brackets off the teeth and will need repair. You will be given a list of food items by Dr. Thompson that you should not eat. 3. When will my braces be removed? This is the most asked question. With typical treatment, braces are on the teeth for about 24 months. That is an estimate. Due to some factors, braces may be removed early or later than 24 months. 4. Why do I need straight teeth? Orthodontic specialists know the proper position and function of an occlusion. A proper occulsion allows a person to grind their food properly and helps maintain good oral hygiene. A malocclusion (bad bite) can effect speech, temporomandibular joints, lower jaw growth, oral hygiene and chewing food. People like looking good and a beautiful smile makes a person feel better about themselves. 5. How do you tighten the braces? An orthodontist will start with very small wires and work up to larger wires during treatment. This places pressure on the teeth and moves them. At the later stages of treatment, Dr. Thompson will place bends in the wire to move the teeth to the final position. 6. Why did spaces open up between my teeth during treatment? During early part of treatment, spaces can appear between the teeth. One of the reasons that spaces open up is that as the roots become parallel the crowns move apart. Don't worry about these spaces, Dr. Thompson will close all the spaces before braces are removed. 7. At what age should my child be evaluated by an orthodontist? Usually your family dentist will refer you for an evaluation if they see a problem. Most dentists will recommend a child's first orthodontic visit at six to eight years old. If you want Dr. Thompson to evaluate your child, you do not have to be referred. Call the office and the secretary will make an initial appointment. The consultation with Dr. Thompson is at no charge and you will have plenty of time to discuss your concerns with him. Early orthodontic visits may allow Dr. Thompson to prevent larger problems in the future. Go To FAQ Page 2 |
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Dr. Joseph H.
Thompson |