FAQ & Ortho Video Library
- What is Orthodontics?
- What is an Orthodontist?
- When is it appropriate to visit an orthodontist and who should consider orthodontic health care?
- Do you need a dental or physician referral?
- What are my treatment options?
- What are the various types of appliances?
- How long does it take?
- How much does it cost?
Orthodontics is a specialty of dentistry concerned with the prevention, interception and correction of the growing and mature dentofacial complex. It is important to note that orthodontic health care encompasses far more than the "straightening of crooked teeth". The orthodontic specialist diagnostic criteria involve the relationship of the hard tissues (teeth and jaws) to each other as well as the relationship of the facial features to these structures.
An orthodontic specialist as defined by the American Dental Association (ADA) and the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), is an individual that earned a dental degree (DMD or DDS) from an ADA accredited dental school. This is followed by an intensive full time orthodontic program of at least 24 months at an appropriately accredited school. Most orthodontists have also earned a 4-year undergraduate (college/university) degree.
The AAO recommends that a child visit an orthodontist by age 7. Growth and development is a critical component to the diagnosis and treatment of children. Some conditions are more appropriately addressed at a young age to take full advantage of growth potential. It is not recommended to wait for the full eruption of the permanent (adult) teeth as a guideline for the first visit to an orthodontist.
Orthodontic health care however, is certainly not limited to children. Millions of adults have benefited from orthodontic treatment. There may be adjustments to appliance design and occasionally minor treatment restrictions for some adult patients; but most of our adult patients are able to achieve a satisfactory result.
Orthodontic health care however, is certainly not limited to children. Millions of adults have benefited from orthodontic treatment. There may be adjustments to appliance design and occasionally minor treatment restrictions for some adult patients; but most of our adult patients are able to achieve a satisfactory result.
A family dentist or any other dental specialist is well qualified to refer patients to seek appropriate orthodontic care. Often, especially for adult patients, it is necessary and beneficial for a team of dentists (interdisciplinary care) to diagnosis and treat patients in a coordinated fashion.
However, in many orthodontic practices, family, friends and co-workers have referred 50-60% of the active patients. Many patients have come to understand the value of orthodontic care and seek treatment on their own.
Regardless of how a patient arrives to an orthodontist, patients must be in good dental health prior to the start of treatment. The orthodontist will assist patients in seeking appropriate dental care if the patient does not have a dentist.
However, in many orthodontic practices, family, friends and co-workers have referred 50-60% of the active patients. Many patients have come to understand the value of orthodontic care and seek treatment on their own.
Regardless of how a patient arrives to an orthodontist, patients must be in good dental health prior to the start of treatment. The orthodontist will assist patients in seeking appropriate dental care if the patient does not have a dentist.
Not every person requires comprehensive (full braces) treatment. However, this is often the treatment of choice. Many patients have been successfully treated with partial fixed appliances and even removable appliances. Dr. Mansour will be happy to discuss which option is best for each individual patient during the first visit to our office.
There are multitudes of contemporary treatment appliances available for use by today's orthodontist. Dr. Mansour has carefully selected each appliance he uses in order to meet the needs of his patients. Aesthetic concerns are addressed with gold and clear (ceramic) brackets, and when possible the Invisalign appliance system.
The length of orthodontic treatment depends on the complexity of the treatment needs and the objectives of the treatment protocol. An 18-24 month interval is often discussed, however individual treatment lengths can be quite variable.
Orthodontics is a remarkably affordable health care. Many dental insurance plans have an orthodontic benefit and most offices offer a variety of financing options.