Learn more about the following topics:
Frequently Asked Questions | Why Braces? | For Children | Two-Phase Treatment | For Adults
Orthodontic Treatments | Surgical Orthodontics | Resources

For most people, a beautiful smile is the most obvious benefit of orthodontics. After your braces come off, you'll feel more self-confident. During your treatment, we want you to feel as comfortable as possible.

How Orthodontic Treatment Works

Orthodontic appliances can be made of metal, ceramic, or plastic. They may be removable or they may be brackets bonded to the teeth. By placing a constant, gentle force in a carefully controlled direction, braces slowly move teeth to a corrected position. This is a great time to wear braces! Gone are the days when a metal band with a bracket was placed around each tooth. You can choose brackets that are clear or metallic color. You can choose the color of the ties that hold the wire in brackets. Wires are also less noticeable than they used to be and the latest materials move teeth faster with less discomfort to patients.

Duration of Treatment

Treatment time typically ranges from one to three years, depending on the growth of the patient's mouth and face and the severity of the problem. Patients grow at different rates and will respond variously to orthodontic treatment, so the time to case completion may differ from the original estimate. The patient's diligent use of any prescribed rubber bands or headgear is an important factor in achieving the most efficient treatment. Interceptive, or early treatment procedures, may take as few as six months.

What causes crooked teeth?

"Malocclusion," the term for a misaligned bite, or crooked teeth, can be inherited or acquired.

Inherited problems are caused when the jaw isn't the right size for the teeth. If the jaw's too small, teeth will be crowded; they'll grow in crooked as they compete for space and may overlap or protrude as a result. But if the jaw's too large, spaces between the teeth may allow them to tip and become misaligned.

Acquired malocclusions usually result from bad habits like thumb sucking, lip biting, and tongue thrusting. Other acquired problems can come from mouth injuries, tooth decay, or gum disease. Any of these can cause loss of primary or permanent teeth, opening spaces on the jaw that can lead to tipped, misaligned teeth. Malocclusion can be corrected by orthodontic treatment, which not only improves the patient's appearance, but also makes it easier to clean and care for teeth.

When should you begin treatment?

Treatment in children may begin as early as age seven, if teeth are erupting in unusual positions or if the jaw is not developing properly. IIf, on the other hand, the problem is simply poor tooth alignment, treatment could be delayed until all the permanent teeth have come in. Parents should also remember that girls' teeth may erupt up to two years before boys'.

Adults may begin orthodontic treatment at any time and it’s never too late. Dr. Gorczyca can improve your smile and align your bite, thus relieving stress not only on your teeth, but also on the muscles of your face, head, and jaw.

People of all ages may benefit from orthodontics. Ask us about it today!

top ^