 FREQUENTLY
ASKED QUESTIONS
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Who should wear braces?
Braces are worn by both children and adults,
not only to improve the attractiveness of the smile, but also
because braces correct improper alignment of teeth that can
lead to gum disease and early tooth loss.
Properly aligned teeth also make it easier to
chew all types of food and eliminate the headaches and pain
caused by uneven chewing.
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At what age should I schedule
an appointment for an orthodontic screening?
Orthodontic screening is recommended at age
seven. By this age, the six-year molars and several permanent
teeth in most children have erupted allowing the doctors to
effectively evaluate most developing orthodontic problems.
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Will my child's teeth straighten
out on their own as they grow?
No, they will not. The space available for the
front teeth does not increase as a child grows. In most people,
the space available for the front teeth actually decreases
with age.
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How does orthodontic care improve
self-image?
Scientific research has repeatedly shown the
mouth and face to be focal points of communication and social
interaction. There can be little doubt that an attractive
facial appearance and smile can improve the quality of life
in many dimensions.
People evaluate one another based on physical
characteristics, particularly the face.
Attractive people have more opportunities for success.
A face with a smile is more attractive
than one without.
- When viewing the face, attention is drawn
to the eyes and the teeth first
- People who do not smile are perceived to
be stern or unhappy
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How do I schedule an appointment
for an initial exam?
Simply fill up the online
form to request an appointment with Dr. Patil.
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What will happen at the initial
examination appointment?
Upon arriving each patient and parent will be
seen by Dr. Patil. Necessary photographs and X-rays will be
taken to make a proper diagnosis.
Dr. Patil will then complete a thorough examination.
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What will I learn from the
initial examination?
Five important questions will be answered during
the initial examination:
- Is there an orthodontic problem and if so,
what is it?
- What must be done to correct the problem?
- Will any teeth need to be removed?
- How long will the treatment take to complete?
- How much will the treatment cost?
In addition to these, Dr. Patil will take the
time to answer any other questions a patient or parent may
have.
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What kinds of braces are available?
In the past, there were only metallic braces
available. Modern technology gives you a variety of braces
to choose from, including traditional stainless steel braces
and clear ceramic braces.
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Can orthodontic correction
occur while a child still has some baby teeth?
Yes. Some orthodontic problems are significant
enough to require early intervention. However, if a patient
is not yet ready for treatment, we will follow that patient's
growth and development until the time is right for treatment
to begin.
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Why is adult orthodontic treatment
important and what might happen without treatment?
By age 35, three out of four adults have some
form of periodontal (gum) disease. Crowding of teeth may lead
to gum disease and even tooth loss due to difficulty in cleaning.
Crowded teeth are hard to maintain, and orthodontic treatment
can help prevent tooth decay, tooth pain, gum disease, and
tooth loss.
However, the most significant reasons why so
many adults are seeking orthodontic treatment remains the
same as the reasons why younger patients want braces:
To look better, feel better, and smile more confidently.
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Will I have to wear retention
plates after the treatment?
Retention plates are removable plates that have
to be worn in the mouth for approx. 6 months after completion
of the treatment for stabilization of results. Retention plates
are designed to keep the teeth in good alignment during this
adjustment period.
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