SmileOdontics – “a great smile is a good investment”

Swollen, inflamed and bleeding gums can usually be prevented by proper and regular flossing and brushing. Periodontal (gum) disease can be caused by accumulation of plaque and debris around the teeth and gums. But there are also several unknown causes that can lead to progressive loss of supporting bone around the teeth and recession of the gums. Should the condition become uncontrollable, orthodontic treatment may have to be discontinued before completion. This would be rare. Monthly orthodontic visits are not a substitute for a regular six month dental exams. A Waterpik / Sonicare product must be used during treatment.

Sometimes a patient may experience the movement of teeth to positions as prior to treatment. Settling or shifting teeth following treatment as well as after retention will most likely occur in varying degrees and spaces can occur between front teeth where none existed before treatment. Sometimes we might advise the wearing of a retaining appliance every night or a few evenings each week for an indefinite period. Failure to follow this advice may cause serious and permanent injury and destroy all of our efforts. The lower incisors frequently overlap and have to remain as such, usually due to a strong bite.

Uncorrected fingers, thumb, tongue or similar pressure habits; unusual hereditary skeletal patterns; and insufficient or undesirable growth can all influence our results, affect facial changes and cause shifting of teeth during or following retention. Surgical procedures are sometimes necessary to correct these problems. On rare occasions it may be necessary to recommend a change in our original treatment plan.

In some instances, problems may exist before, during or following orthodontic treatment with the “sliding hinge” connecting the upper and lower jaws. Tooth positions and bite can be a factor in this condition. Tooth equilibration (selective tooth grinding) by your dentist may be recommended after appliances are removed to improve the occlusal relationship. TMJ problems are not all bite related. Most individuals that have a TMJ problem have never had orthodontic treatment. However, despite our best efforts, some patients have developed permanent jaw problems that require surgical or other additional treatment.

When a tooth or teeth are unable to erupt “normally” they are called impacted. In attempting to move the impacted tooth / teeth, especially canines, various problems are sometimes encountered that may lead to loss of the tooth or periodontal (gum) problems. The length of time required to move such a tooth can vary considerably. Occasionally the permanent second molars (aka 12-year molars) may be trapped under the crowns of the permanent first molars (aka 6-year molars.) Consequently, the removal of the third molars (aka wisdom teeth) may prove necessary. Sometimes impacted molars may cause relapse to otherwise successful orthodontic treatment.

“Shortening of root ends” can occur with or without orthodontic treatment. Under normal health conditions the shortened roots usually are not a problem. Injury, impaction, endocrine or idiopathic disorders can also cause this problem. However, untreated gum disease can aggravate the condition can cause early tooth loss.

Usually the result of an injured tooth, the nerve of an injured tooth can die over a period of time, with or without orthodontic treatment. This tooth may become infected (abscessed) during movement and may require root canal treatment. Discoloration of a tooth may be noticed after treatment has started or following the removal of appliances. De-vitalization is seldom due to orthodontics.

“Tooth discoloration” may result. Oral Hygiene must be maintained and just good hygiene may not be enough – we encourage you to have EXCELLENT Oral Hygiene. Poor hygiene may result in cavities, decalcification, discolored teeth and / or gum disease. Avoiding hard and sticky foods will help keep bands and brackets from loosening. Calling our office to report any loose bands as soon as they are noticed will help minimize decay and gum problems. It is important to brush the teeth and gums immediately after eating. This will help prevent decalcifications, resulting in the white, soft enamel areas that can become decayed. Routine visits for cleaning and topical fluoride treatments are an important part of your child’s treatment.

This is the most important factor in completing treatment on time. The improper wearing of elastics, removable appliances, headgear or neck-strap; broken appliances and / or missed appointments may prevent our obtaining the desirable tooth position anticipated. These are factors which can lengthen treatment and adversely affect the quality of treatment results.

We would hope to have a fine orthodontic result provided that we have informed and cooperative patients and parents. Certain things are very important to remember in this regard, such as:

• Practicing excellent oral hygiene
• Eating proper foods
• Care of the appliances
• Keeping regularly scheduled appointments
• Cooperation with respect to instructions, rubber bands, headgear, retainers, etc.
• Maintaining regular 6 month visits with your general dentist for exams and cleanings

Cooperation throughout treatment is one of the most important factors that you can contribute that will assist us in establishing a pleasing smile and a good bite. Following directions is your responsibility and we are anxious to assist you in this regard at any time.