Although many adults get braces, treating orthodontic problems at an earlier age ensures the best results for the least amount of time and money. The American Association of Orthodontists says a child’s initial orthodontic evaluation should take place at the first sign of orthodontic problems or no later than age 7, at which point the first adult molars erupt, establishing the back bite. By examining the erupted incisors, an orthodontist will be able to evaluate front-to-back and side-to-side tooth relationships and identify potential problems before they occur.
There are numerous options when it comes to choosing an orthodontic treatment. Traditional metal braces are still commonplace, but clear braces and removable appliances are becoming increasingly popular with younger and older patients alike. To determine which treatment is best for your particular situation, consider the following information:
Braces
Metal braces are still regularly used by orthodontists, but radiance (clear) braces are gaining popularity. Made from sapphire crystals that are honed and then heat polished into clear, smooth and strong brackets, radiance braces are less conspicuous than their metal counterparts.
Invisalign®
Aided by 3-D computer simulation, the Invisalign system treats certain orthodontic bite problems without the need for wires or brackets. It utilizes a series of clear, customized appliances called aligners that are designed to move teeth in gradual stages to a desired final position. Not only are the aligners removable, which enables patients to eat anything they want, they’re also transparent and nearly undetectable by the naked eye. Each aligner is precisely calibrated and manufactured to fit the patient’s mouth at each phase of the treatment plan.
“Most people prefer Invisalign braces because they’re more comfortable and less conspicuous than metal braces,” adds Dr. Stephen Yao, owner of Braces for Pretty Faces in San Jose. “A lot of people are also surprised that moderate and severe bite problems can be corrected by Invisalign. It’s a very attractive option.”
Herbst
The Herbst appliance is sometimes used to treat the incongruity that occurs when the upper teeth protrude beyond the lower. It does this by promoting growth in the lower jaw, encouraging it to “catch up” with the upper. Although the Herbst appliance prevents the lower jaw from moving backward, opening and closing movements still easily occur, and patients usually don’t have any problems learning to chew their food with their lower jaw in this new position.
Corrective jaw surgery
Corrective jaw surgery, or orthognathic surgery as it’s formally known, treats and corrects abnormalities of the facial bones—specifically the jaws and teeth—that cause difficulties with routine activities such as chewing, talking and sleeping. In conjunction with orthodontic treatment, corrective jaw surgery serves to improve the overall appearance of the facial profile. Typically, orthognathic surgery is only done when simple orthodontic treatment isn’t enough to correct the problem.
