|
People who have various types of malocclusion - or a "bad bite" – are candidates for orthodontic braces. Malocclusion can include crowded or crooked teeth, extra or missing teeth, wide spaces between teeth or jaws that are out of alignment. Since such conditions can affect not only one's looks but one's dental and physical health, a dentist may recommend corrective treatment with braces. Other factors, including finger or thumb sucking, gum disease, cavities, premature loss of baby teeth and trauma also contribute to a bad bite, creating the need for braces. Such treatment, usually provided by a certified orthodontist, takes a year or two, especially for adults. Text Continues Below
Better-looking teeth and improved self-esteem are among the cosmetic and psychological benefits of wearing braces. However, braces do more than change one's looks. They straighten protruding and misaligned teeth by forcing them to move and grow properly, resulting in better jaw alignment and function. Braces also correct cheek-biting, discourage grinding and other bad habits, reduce the risk of injury, make routine dental care easier and can even promote better chewing habits and improved digestion. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children with such problems have an initial consultation no later than age seven. While some parents and family dentists feel it best to wait until the permanent teeth are in, it is actually easier to treat a child's malocclusion problems before his face and jaws have finished growing. Since poorly-arranged teeth can break easily and trap food particles that cause further tooth decay or gum disease, it is best to correct the problem early, Association spokesmen say. Baylor College of Dentistry researchers found that malocclusions interfere with the ability to chew and break down foods, which in turn affects digestion and overall health – even more reason to straighten the teeth early, they say. CITATIONS
American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics (AJO) from 1988 to the present - (www2.us.elsevierhealth.com)
Web site of William J. Trepp, DDS., PA – Allentown, PA - (http://www.orthodontics.org/)
American Dental Association – (http://www.ada.org)
American Association of Orthodontists - (http://www.orthodontics.org/)
|
.gif)
