Dr. Sexton. Orthodontics Braces Pediatric Dentist Dentistry in Tallahassee FL Florida and Thomasville GA Georgia

Orthodontics

What is Orthodontics?

When describing orthodontics, most people just refer to braces. While the majority of orthodontic cases involve braces, there are also appliances that may be needed before braces and retainers that are use afterwards to keep the teeth straight.

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. Dr. Sexton 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, Dr. Sexton 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.

consult 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 Dr. Sexton. 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 are Braces?

Braces are retainers, bonded brackets, and arch wires 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.

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.


Anterior Crossbite	Crossbite Correction

The Plaque Patrol

Keeping your new braces and appliance clean is more than just a good idea—it can be the difference between a pleasant time with your treatment or a painful time. If food and plaque are allowed to build up around the edges of your appliance, the cheek and gum tissue can become infected and painful.

The best way to remove food and plaque from all surfaces of your appliance and braces, is to use a small toothbrush and toothpaste. You can then floss to clean between your teeth and any areas around and under the appliance and braces. It will be necessary to use floss threaders to guide the floss between your appliance and your teeth, you can reach all areas with a little practice and patience. Follow your brushing and flossing by rinsing with a mouthwash.

The extra time that you spend cleaning your braces and appliance is time well spent. With a clean a mouth, you will be more comfortable and experience better and faster results with your treatment!

© Copyright 2003- Dental WebSmith, Inc., Tom C. Sexton, DMD, PA (Florida), and Tom C. Sexton, DMD, PC (Georgia). 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.