Metropolitan Saint Paul MN Minnesota Orthodontics Braces Pediatric Dentist Dentistry

Metropolitan Pediatric Dental Associates, Ltd.

Orthodontics

What is Orthodontics?

When describing orthodontics, most people just refer to braces. While the majority of orthodontic cases involve braces, there are alternatives that may be used for younger children. Arch expanders and training appliances for younger children can minimize or eliminate the need for braces when problems are treated early enough.

What are the Benefits of Orthodontics?

Reduce the risk of injury - prominent teeth are more prone to trauma
Reduce the risk of decay - crooked teeth are harder to clean
Reduce the risk of developing TMJ problems
Eliminate the excessive wear on your teeth that can be caused by a poorly aligned bite
Correcting abnormal tooth alignment can help prevent certain speech problems
Straight teeth provide a healthier, more attractive smile
A beautiful smile increases confidence and self-esteem

What is an Orthodontic Evaluation?

Orthodontic treatment with braces begins with an evaluation appointment. Your Dentist will first visually determine if your child is a good candidate for orthodontic treatment, or if another treatment would be more appropriate. If your child is a good candidate for orthodontic treatment, Your Dentist will take impressions of your child's teeth, special x-rays of their jaw joint, head and teeth, and very important measurements of their teeth and mouth.

Next is a consulting appointment to discuss the treatment plan. The treatment plan is based on the records taken at the evaluation. The consult includes:

Specific treatment recommendation
Expected length of treatment
Expected cost of treatment

When should My Child be Evaluated?

If your child develops an "open bite", sucks their thumb, has a noticable tongue thrust, or you are otherwise concerned about the development of your child's teeth, no matter what the age, contact us right away for a consult with Your Dentist. Otherwise, children should be evaluated by the age of 6 for orthodontic treatment. In the past, a child was 11 or 12 before brackets were actually placed on the teeth to straighten them. This may still hold true in most cases, but there are new techniques that can correct problems early, while a child is still growing. This may eliminate the need for braces in the future, or if the child does still need braces, the treatment will be less complicated, usually shortening the period of time in braces.

What is an Arch Expander?

An Arch Expander is one example of orthodontic treatment available for younger patients. Many times an arch expander can be used to create a proper alignment of the arches so permanent teeth have room to erupt in a natural position. The use of an arch expander will generally minimize or eliminate the need for braces when the patient gets older.

What are Braces?

Braces are retainers, bonded brackets, arch wires and elastic bands that move crowded or spaced teeth into a "normal" position for appearance, prevention and function. Patients with poorly aligned teeth tend to have much more tooth decay, gum disease and jaw joint problems. Recently invented brackets and new techniques make orthodontic treatment faster and more comfortable than ever.


metal brackets	white brackets	colored bands

How do Braces work?

Over a period of time, teeth will shift if constant, gentle pressure is applied. Brackets are bonded to the front surface of each tooth and wires are attached to the brackets with elastic bands. The slight tension on the wire is gently transferred to the bracket through the elastic band.


Before	After

© Copyright 2003- Dental WebSmith, Inc. and Metropolitan Pediatric Dental Associates, Ltd. All rights reserved. Disclaimer: The information provided within is intended to help you better understand dental conditions and procedures. It is not meant to serve as delivery of medical or dental care. If you have specific questions or concerns, contact your health care provider.