Orthodontics Dr. Bertolini does child and adult orthodontics, including invisilign. About 25 percent of all orthodontic treatment performed today is on adult patients. Chances are that you too can benefit from orthodontic treatment. Why Should I Have Orthodontics Now? There are a number of reasons for deciding to have orthodontic treatment as an adult: Orthodontics can help you enjoy a straighter smile, more even teeth and greater self-confidence in social and business settings. Other benefits include easier brushing and reduced chances of developing periodontal (gum) disease later on. You may also notice greater ease in chewing and swallowing. What Happens At My First Orthodontic Appointment? First, your teeth, jaw, bite and profile will be evaluated. Special X-rays, showing your head, face and jaws are taken to help the doctor take specific measurements and plan your treatment. Impressions are also taken to record the way your teeth and jaws fit together. Dr. Bertolini will take photographs of your face, teeth, and profile. (Often the difference between the "before" and "after" photos is astounding!) From these diagnostic records the doctor will determine the type of malocclusion (improper bite) you have, as well as any other orthodontic problems. Types of Malocclusions There are three common types of malocclusions. Other common orthodontic problems include an open bit, a closed bite, or a cross bite. These conditions can be corrected to give you a smile that is as functional and esthetic as possible. How Teeth Are Moved Dr. Bertolini will move your teeth into a position using one or more appliances (like braces or retainers). Braces work by gently applying pressure to your teeth. This causes bone to be absorbed on one side. New bone then grows in and slowly hardens on the other side of your teeth, holding teeth in new position. Treatment Considerations A number of factors will determine the best method of treatment for your individual case. Dr. Bertolini will consider the diagnosis and the amount of time necessary to achieve the desired result. Here are the most common of treatment considerations. And terms you should be familiar with. Be sure to discuss any questions you may have with Dr. Bertolini. ~Bands are metal braces attached to your teeth.~Brackets are often bonded to your teeth, to hold special archwires.~Spacers are small pieces of wire or plastic worn between your teeth for a week or two prior to getting your braces.~Archwires are threaded through the brackets to connect the teeth in each jaw.~Lingual Braces also called ‘invisible braces’, can sometimes be used in adult orthodontics for esthetics.~Headgear is sometimes prescribed to help the braces move your teeth.~Elastics are tiny rubber bands used to apply pressure to individual teeth, to help them move faster.~Retainers are often used to hold your teeth in their correct position after the braces come off. They can be permanent or removable.Finally .... Orthodontics is a personal decision and commitment that will affect the rest of your life. Be sure to work as a partner with the doctor to get the best possible esthetic result. You can do this by wearing your removable appliances for the prescribed amount of hours per day, keeping your appointments and by having your teeth cleaned every 6 months. Remember .... your smile is yours to keep for a lifetime.
Brush Your Teeth!It is important for you to keep your teeth, gums and appliances VERY CLEAN. Food particles left in your appliances or between your teeth are likely to produce odors and damage your teeth and gums while you are having orthodontic treatment. There are many nooks and crannies where food can catch-so, you must be especially careful. Pay particular attention to the area next to the gum. This is a DANGER ZONE. Brush your teeth carefully and thoroughly. Vigorously rinse out any food that has been loosened. Poor brushing may result in permanent stains on your teeth. Brush your teeth with the toothbrush Dr. Bertolini recommended. Start at the back and use a rotation movement. Brush your teeth as they grow, top teeth downward and bottom ones upward. Now, repeat the same procedures on the inner surfaces (the tongue side) of your teeth...downward for uppers and upward for lowers. Next, run the brush along your arch wires carefully and slowly. Pay particular attention to the tooth surfaces between your gums and the bands. Rinse your mouth and check your teeth, gums and appliances in the mirror. Does your whole mouth look clean and do your bands sparkle? If your teeth are not completely clean - brush them again! REMEMBER! Clean bands are less noticeable than dirty bands. Only you can give tour teeth and appliances proper care. Teeth move faster in a clean healthy mouth! Below is an example of decay and gum inflammation caused by poor oral care while wearing braces. The second photo is the result of Dr. Bertolini removing the decayed portions and filling the areas.   Before After 6500 Whipple Avenue N.W. ~ North Canton, Ohio 44720 ~ 330.494.6305 |
