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Orthodontic Clinic

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Frequently Asked Questions

Table of Contents
What is the right time to start orthodontic treatment?
Usually orthodontic treatment is started about 11 to 12 years of age, when the second molars are erupting and all the primary teeth have been lost.  There are some exceptions to this time frame.  Sometimes early treatment is indicated for correction of problems that are difficult to correct later.  Some times treatment is delayed when there are skeletal discrepancies that can not be corrected with orthodontics alone.

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Are adults too old for orthodontic treatment?
Not necessarily.  Orthodontic treatment can be done throughout one's life.  For adults treatment usually takes somewhat longer than for developmentally growing children.

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Is it true that teeth are often taken out for orthodontic treatment?
Yes, teeth are taken out in some patients to straighten crowded teeth.  Not all malocclusions can be straightened without taking out teeth.  Many factors must be considered in making the extraction versus non-extraction decision.

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What is splint therapy?
Splint therapy is a diagnostic tool used to asses the bite, lower jaw position and the TMJ'S(Temporal Mandibular Joints) prior to tooth movement.  This assessment should be done more carefully in adults with long established habitual bites that may not be normal.

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What does a skeletal discrepancy mean?
Malocclusions can be caused by a discrepancy of the teeth in the underlying bones or they may be caused by a discrepancy in the underlying bones themselves.  When there is a discrepancy in the underlying bones, orthodontics in conjunction with orthognathic surgery may be suggested to achieve treatment goals.

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Are teeth susceptible to tooth decay during orthodontic treatment?
Yes, teeth are susceptible to tooth decay during orthodontic treatment.  Brushing with the orthodontic appliances on is more difficult than brushing without the appliances.  We provide instruction on how to brush around the brackets and wires.  Our staff applies fluoride to your teeth after every visit to help protect your teeth from decay.  Regular cleanings should be scheduled with your dental hygienist every 3 to 6 months during orthodontic treatment.

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Do teeth ever relapse after they are straightened?
Teeth always move upon appliance removal.  This is why they must be correctly aligned in the arches and have the TMJ'S(Temporal Mandibular Joints) in a well seated position before appliance removal.  One of the causes of relapse is that the fibers that connect the teeth to the bone and gums have a memory and tend to pull the teeth back to their original positions.

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