Orthodontics In Florida: All You Needed To Know

By Author: nick smmith
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As one of the most rapidly evolving areas of dentistry, orthodontics involves the use of corrective appliances, including braces and retainers, to straighten crooked teeth and/or repair an irregular bite. Since the introduction of new clear and "invisible" braces, orthodontic treatment has gone from something reserved for children and teenagers to an option for adults with cosmetic and functional dental issues.

Most people today think of orthodontic treatment for cosmetic purposes only, but in fact there are medical reasons for seeking out an orthodontist. Misaligned and crooked teeth are common and can cause a multitude of issues from difficulty chewing to speech problems. Crowded teeth make it more difficult to properly brush and floss, which may contribute to tooth decay and/or gum disease. Ultimately, orthodontics does more than make a pretty smile – it creates a healthier you!

A common reason for seeking treatment is a misaligned jaw, which can cause an overbite when the upper jaw is too far forward or alternatively an under-bite, which happens when the bottom teeth are too far forward. A typical consequence ...
... of misalignment is that protruding teeth are more susceptible to accidental chipping. Additionally, a cross bite can result in unfavorable growth and uneven tooth wear, just as an open bite can result in tongue-thrusting habits and speech impediments. Because the teeth do not always meet correctly, there can be problems with chewing food. This can also lead to more serious issues like jaw tension and TMJ. Wearing braces can fix the misalignment and may help to relieve pain.

Another serious reason people seek out an orthodontist is a speech impediment, which is a disorder of speech, causing certain sounds to be distorted. Some lisps can be caused by dental problems, such as gaps between the front teeth that cause the tongue to protrude through the gap. Braces may fix the gap and -- along with speech therapy -- correct the impediment.

Though an orthodontist can enhance a smile at any age, there is an optimal time period that ensures the best result and the shortest treatment. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that the initial orthodontic evaluation should occur at the first sign of orthodontic problems or no later than age 7. Early evaluation provides both timely detection of problems and greater opportunity for more effective treatment. Appropriate intervention guides growth and development, preventing serious problems later. When orthodontic intervention is not necessary, an orthodontist can carefully monitor growth and development and begin treatment when it is ideal. By the age of 7, the first adult molars erupt, establishing the back bite. During this time, an orthodontist can evaluate front-to-back and side-to-side tooth relationships. Timely screening increases the chances for a beautiful smile.

The good news is braces aren’t just for kids anymore. Tooth alignment can be changed at any age if your gums and bone structure are healthy. Orthodontic treatment at later stages in life can dramatically improve your personal appearance and self-esteem. Improving the health of your teeth and gums is equally important. Crooked teeth and a bad bite can contribute to gum and bone loss, tooth decay, abnormal wear of the tooth enamel and surfaces, headaches and jaw joint (TMJ/TMD) pain.

Today’s technology offers several options when it comes to wearing braces. While standard metal braces are still used, clear braces are becoming increasingly popular as well as removable appliances for mild cases of misaligned teeth.

Some of these options include:

Clear

Ceramic braces are made of translucent (clear) material. They are most popular with adult patients, due to their cosmetic appeal. The only drawback to ceramic brackets is that they are more fragile, and the elastic ties can discolor between orthodontic visits.

Inspire Ice

Unlike most ceramic brackets for braces that have metal slots to aid motility, Inspire Ice has a smooth, strong surface created by a heat process and is not metal. This is beneficial to patients who have allergies to certain metals. Additionally, it is much more comfortable for patients.

Other patients prefer these brackets because they are virtually invisible, as they are clear. This means that your doctor will not have to struggle to match your enamel shades, which will save you time and unnecessary visits to the doctor.

Ormco, the creator of Inspire Ice, has been a staple in the orthodontic community for over 40 years. They promise faster results, greater comfort, easier treatment and more positive overall satisfaction. Patients can look and feel better from the treatment’s start to finish.

Damon

Damon braces were invented by Dr. Dwight Damon. The Damon bracket utilizes (sliding-door) technology known as "self-ligation" that allows the wire to slide back and forth within the bracket.

No elastic or steel ties are used with Damon brackets. This technology creates less friction and results in greater comfort for the patient. In addition, Damon braces often reduce both treatment time and the number of adjustments that are usually performed.

Invisalign®

The Invisalign System is a series of clear overlay templates called aligners that have been generated by computer simulation to gradually move the teeth. This system is available to adult patients with certain orthodontic bite problems.

Mini Diamond

Mini Diamond braces are popular with patients of all ages. Thirty percent smaller than regular metal braces, this appliance is more comfortable. They’re also efficient, yielding the same treatment time as traditional braces.

To find the right orthodontists in Florida, you can first ask for a referral from your dentist. Dentists not only work with orthodontists in coordinating patient care, but also regularly view the results of alignment procedures and can pass their evaluations on to you. You can also ask your friends or colleagues for a referral or you may have dental insurance that you can contact for advice.

Before you set up a consultation with an orthodontist, make sure he or she is a licensed member of the American Association of Orthodontists, an organization requiring adherence to rigorous training and ethical standards. Members of this organization have completed two to three years of full-time postgraduate classes and clinical work. Once members have their own practice, they must remain up-to-date on research and technological advances.

Once you have your consultation, you’ll want to find out:

• What is the orthodontist's level of experience and how long has he or she been practicing?
• Can you view before and after photos of patients?
• Do they have the latest technologies such as translucent aligners (such as Invisalign's) and clear brackets that allow for less conspicuous appliances that may save on treatment time and reduce discomfort?
• What is the orthodontist's diagnosis and plan of action for your teeth and how clearly has it been explained to you?
• Is the staff friendly and do you feel comfortable in the office?
• Is it conveniently located to your home or office?
• Are there financing options available?

Are you are looking for Orthodontics in Florida for your teeth treatment? Visit at www.coralspringsdentist.net and get the best treatment at Coral Springs, Florida.