Dr. Moore utilizes a “two-phased” orthodontic strategy with children. This allows him to treat any problems when they arise, instead of waiting until all of the adult teeth are in. Phase I treatment, while not necessary for every child, helps to minimize the amount of time that a child needs to wear braces. Because the children are growing it is the ideal time to correct poor jaw relationships, narrow upper jaws, and thumb-sucking habits. Once growth has stopped, these conditions may require surgical correction. Early treatment is definitely the treatment of choice where applicable.
“Fixed Braces” is our second phase of treatment, following the use of appliances in Phase I to guide the growth of jaw bones. Once jaw relationships are corrected, it follows that we move the teeth themselves into the proper alignment. To do this, fixed brackets (small metal squares that are glued to the teeth) and wires are used to slowly bring the teeth into position. Usually this phase is begun once all of the primary teeth have been lost, and duration is anywhere between 12-36 months. We try to make it fun for the children with a choice of 15 different colours of elastics. Of course, patients need to have adequate oral care during the period that they are wearing braces. Retainers are required after braces are removed. We will often use a “fixed” or cemented sire on the bottom front six teeth to keep them from moving. On the top teeth, we usually use a removable device. Again, patient cooperation is a must: if the retainers are not worn, the teeth will quickly move back into the positions they were in before treatment. This is called “relapse”.
As we age, our faces tend to “cave in” due to wear of our teeth and teeth becoming more crowded with time. Orthodontics can help re-establish the proper relationships of the teeth, giving a more youthful, healthy smile. More and more people are choosing to wear braces in their adult years. Dr. Moore wore braces on from age 33 to 35. It is an effective way to re-create a wonderful smile without having to resort to veneers or crowns.
Among the benefits are:
Orthodontic treatment can be beneficial at any age and approximately 25% of today’s orthodontic patients are adults. For many of these people, the use of clear braces, gold brackets or even invisible braces (Invisilign) makes wearing braces less obvious.
If you are interested in orthodontics, Dr. Moore will do a very thorough “orthodontic work-up”, which includes panoramic and cephalometric radiographs, models of your teeth, a periodontal (gum) exam and facial profiling. Once all of the factors are taken into account, Dr. Moore can discuss your options, costs associated with the treatment, and your approximate treatment duration. From there, you can make an educated decision about treatment.