Orthodontics

The Canadian and American Association of Orthodontists recommend an assessment with an orthodontic specialist no later than age 7. Although treatment may not be needed at this age, orthodontists can identify emerging problems with jaw growth and crowding that can be intercepted at an early stage. Early treatment may prevent more serious problems from developing and may make treatment at a later age shorter and less complicated.
Indications for early orthodontic treatment (Phase 1) include:

•  Constricted jaws
• Guide jaw growth
• Decrease risk of trauma to protruded front teeth
• Improve oral habits (thumbsucking)
• Guide permanent teeth into a more favorable position

There is a risk, however small and infrequent, for complications even with the most careful sedation case. The following are some (but not necessarily all) of these possible risks and complications.

Nitrous oxygen sedation, although considered safe as it is inhaled and exhaled, does have associated risks. There is a risk of diffusion hypoxia (decreased oxygen in the body) at the end of the procedure. There is a risk of becoming unconscious and in extremely rare cases, death. The patient is given 100% oxygen for 3-5 minutes at the end of the procedure to prevent diffusion hypoxia.

Both oral and IV sedation, administered following appropriate guidelines, are considered safe in healthy individuals.  There is a risk of over sedation which can cause unconsciousness and subsequent damage to internal organs including brain damage and possibly death. The patient’s vitals are continuously monitored during the procedure to prevent oversedation. In addition, at the site of the IV catheter placement, there is a minimal risk of hematoma formation (localized swelling filled with blood) which generally heals on its own.

With both oral and IV sedation there is a risk of being overly sedated when additional sedative medications are taken. It is therefore recommended that the patient not consume alcohol or any other sedative medications within 24 hours after the sedation. Sedation causes a depressed level of cognition and therefore decision making is impaired. A patient should not drive, operate machinery or undertake any activity that requires alertness. Nor should a patient undertake any positions of responsibility or make any important decisions for at least 24 hours after the procedure.

The early teenage years (ages 12-15) are the most common time to begin comprehensive orthodontic treatment. At this age, all permanent teeth have typically erupted and orthodontic problems can be readily diagnosed and treated.

During the adolescent years, most children are experiencing growth spurts. These growth spurts are helpful in correcting some bites, including overbites and cases where the lower jaw is further behind the upper jaw.

The teen years are also the time when the majority of their peers are going through orthodontics as well, making cooperation and compliance easier. Patient cooperation is critical for a good result with orthodontics.  We find that patients with the best cooperation have the best results and finish treatment sooner.

Whether you are looking for minor revisions from teeth shifting or a smile makeover, there is no age limit to orthodontics.

Indications for orthodontic treatment in adults include:

• Improvement of overall functional and health of the teeth and bite
• Improved access for oral hygiene
• Reduce uneven wear or grinding of teeth
• Reduce/stop breakdown or loss of teeth and bone that supports the teeth
• Idealize space for future restorative dental treatment
• Improve smile esthetics and self-esteem

There are many orthodontic appliance options available today, with each option having their uses and benefits.
The following are the treatment options.