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Frequantly
Asked Questions |
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Cosmetic Dentistry FAQ
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How long does bleaching
last?
You can help your teeth remain white by brushing
twice a day, cleaning between the teeth daily with
floss and seeing your dentist for regular cleanings
along with occasional touch-up treatments. The surfaces
of your teeth can be stained by tobacco and certain
foods such as soy sauce and ketchup as well as beverages
such as coffee, tea and pop and by deposits of calculus
or tartar. If you have had your teeth whitened,
avoid stain-causing foods for the first several
days after the procedure. |
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At what age can people
have orthodontic treatment?
The biological process involved in moving teeth
is the same at any age. Children and adults can
both benefit from orthodontics. It is recommended
that every child receive an orthodontic evaluation
by age seven. Treatment may take a little longer
for adults. Because an adult's facial bones are
no longer growing, certain corrections may not be
accomplished with braces alone.
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What causes orthodontic
problems?
An orthodontic problem is called a malocclusion,
meaning "bad bite." Some examples of causes
of malocclusion are crowded teeth, extra teeth,
missing teeth or jaws that are out of alignment.
Most malocclusions are inherited, although some
can be acquired. Acquired malocclusions can be caused
by accidents, early or late loss of baby teeth,
or sucking of the thumb or fingers for a prolonged
period of time.
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How are orthodontic
problems corrected?
First, pre-treatment records are made. These records
are important tools for the dentist to use in making
an accurate diagnosis. They include medical/dental
history, clinical examination; plaster study models
of teeth, photos of your face and teeth and x-rays
of your mouth and head. This information will be
used to decide on the best treatment.
A custom treatment plan is outlined for each patient.
The specific treatment appliance best suited to
correct the patient's orthodontic problem is constructed.
There are a variety of different orthodontic appliances
that may be used.
When the orthodontic appliances are in place, this
is considered the "active treatment" phase.
Appliances are adjusted periodically so that the
teeth are moved correctly and efficiently.
The time required for orthodontic treatment varies
from person to person. An important factor in how
long a patient wears braces is how well the patient
cooperates during treatment - for example, by following
instructions to wear rubber bands or head gear.
After active treatment is completed, the "retention"
phase begins. A patient will need to wear a retainer
so that the teeth stay in their new positions. For
severe orthodontic problems, surgery may be recommended.
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Are there less noticeable
braces?
Today's braces are generally less noticeable than
those of the past. Brackets, the part of the braces
that hold the wires, are bonded to the front of
the teeth. These brackets can be metal, clear, or
tooth-coloured. Wires that are used for braces today
are also less noticeable. In some cases, brackets
may be put on the back of the teeth (lingual appliances).
Modern wires are also less noticeable than their
predecessors. Today's wires are made of "space
age" materials that exert a steady, gentle
pressure on the teeth, making the tooth-moving process
faster and more comfortable for patients
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How long will treatment
take?
Although the average treatment time is about 24
months, this varies with individual patients. Usually,
adult treatment takes a little longer than a child's
treatment. Other things to keep in mind are the
severity of the problem, the health of the teeth,
gums and supporting bone and how closely the patient
follows instructions. While orthodontic treatment
requires a time commitment, most people feel the
benefits are well worth the time invested |
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