What are the most common questions our patients have about Orthodontics? Your Whitby Orthodontist and Durham Orthodontist Dr. Nikolovski has all the answers.
At what age should I seek an initial orthodontic consultation?
The American and Canadian Association of Orthodontists recommend a full orthodontic evaluation by the age of 7. Some orthodontic problems are easier to correct if detected at an earlier age, before jaw growth has stopped. Early or imperceptive orthodontic treatment can stop some orthodontic issues before they get worse.
What is Phase I and Phase II Orthodontics?
Orthodontics falls into two main categories. Phase I orthodontics also known as "early interceptive" orthodontics is a short limited phase of orthodontic treatment that usually occurs around the age of 7 to 10 years old, typically before all of the permanent teeth have erupted. This treatment is traditionally used to stop a problem from becoming more severe, and is commonly used to correct crossbites, underbites, or preventing harmful oral habits. Phase II orthodontic treatment typically involves a full two year treatment to align all of the adult teeth once they have erupted. Phase II orthodontics begins at around the age of 10 to 13.
Are Braces painful?
Placing orthodontic appliances on your teeth is not painful. Once your braces are placed and connected with an archwire, there may be a day or two of soreness afterwards. Typically after a period of a few weeks and once a patient is used to the appliances, there is not much discomfort.
Should I still go to my dentist for regular dental care?
Routine dental care is extremely important when wearing orthodontic appliances. Regular cleanings at 6 month intervals and cavity screening should be a priority when patients have their braces on as food and plaque can accumulate around the orthodontic appliances. Whitby has many skilled dentists in the area that can keep your teeth in excellent shape during treatment.
How long will I have to wear braces for?
The time a patient has orthodontic appliances on usually depends on the severity of their orthodontic problem. For a phase I treatment, typically the treatment is around 6-8 months. For a full phase II orthodontic treatment, appliances can remain in place for approximately 2 years or longer.
Do you have any more questions? Contact Durham Orthodontics and Whitby Orthodontist Dr. John Nikolovski can answer more questions by scheduling a complementary initial examination.
