Q. What is an orthodontist?

A.  An orthodontist is a dental specialist who has completed at least a two year residency in the study of orthodontics at an accredited dental school in addition to four years of general dental training. As orthodontic specialists, our practice is limited to the prevention and correction of irregularities in the teeth and jaws and other deformities of the face caused by these conditions.

Q. What are the benefits of orthodontic treatment?

Some of the benefits and advantages of early treatment are:

• Improve the smile and self confidence
• Influence the growth of the jaw in a positive manner
• Reduce the likelihood of impacted permanent teeth
• Reduce or eliminate the need for extraction of permanent teeth
• Lower the risk of injury to protruded front teeth
• Improve the width of the dental arches
• Improve self the image of our children

Q. What are the possible results of untreated problems?

A.  Depending on the severity of the case, untreated orthodontic problems may increase the risk for tooth decay, gum disease, jaw joint problems, and loss of teeth. Protruding teeth can be easily chipped or damaged. An untreated malocclusion (or "bad bite") may also play a role in one's self image. You naturally feel better when you look better, and a pleasing appearance is a vital asset to one's self-confidence and self-esteem.

Q. Am I too old for orthodontics?

A.  Orthodontics is for adults too. Since the biological process in tooth movement is the same in both adults and children, you're never too old to be at your best. Our oldest patient so far has been 86 years young! About 25% - 30% of our practice is adults, and the number is growing.

Q. How frequent are my appointments?

A.  After the braces are on, appointments are scheduled every 6 to 8 weeks. Most appointments last about 30 to 40 minutes.

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Q. How long will I have to wear braces?

A.  The average treatment time for children is about two years while adults may take slightly longer. The exact treatment time is dependent on many variables such as patient cooperation, difficulty of the case, keeping regular appointments, etc.

Q. At what age should I take my child to see Dr. Fried?

A.  Dr. Fried and the American Association of Orthodontists recommend seeing children at age seven for an early check-up. This does not mean all children need to be treated at age seven, but it does allow Dr. Fried to assess each individual and determine who would benefit from early treatment. When treatment is not indicated, careful observation can establish the best timing for orthodontic care.

Q. How would I know if my child needs braces?

A.  The most common warning signs that a child might need braces include major gaps between teeth, teeth that are crowded, turned or protruded. Sometimes the signs that braces are needed are more subtle. Poorly fitting teeth can cause premature tooth wear, bite instability and discomfort in the jaw joints, neck and/or shoulders.

The following are indications an orthodontic problem may be present:

• Unusual facial profile
• Thumb and finger sucking
• Overlapped and crooked teeth
• Missing teeth
• Lower jaw in front of upper teeth
• Protrusion of upper teeth
• Mouth breathing

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Q. Can adults have orthodontic treatment?

A.  Orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age, and adults especially appreciate the benefits of a beautiful smile. One of every four patients in orthodontic treatment is over 21.

Bad bites can be detrimental to a patient's health. Restorations, crowns, or bridges are often difficult for a dentist to provide without prior repositioning of the teeth by an orthodontist. Properly aligned and supported teeth are healthier, easier to clean, and therefore more likely to last throughout a patient's lifetime.

Dramatic changes in a person's smile and profile can be achieved. A person can actually look years younger by straightening crooked teeth or correcting an excessive overbite or an under bite. A beautiful smile can increase self-confidence and in turn, a sense of well being.

Q. What are some of the long term benefits of orthodontic treatment?

A.  Braces can enhance a person's appearance. This may lead to improved confidence and self esteem which is extremely important. Straight teeth improve overall oral health and decrease the incidence of tooth decay, gum disease and tooth loss.

Q. What is Phase I and Phase II treatment?

A.  Phase I is treatment as early as 8 or 9 years of age that may involve partial braces to create space for developing and erupting teeth, correction of cross bites, overbites, under bites or harmful habits. Not all children need Phase I treatment. An early check-up helps determine whether it is necessary.

Phase II treatment involves full braces, which allows maximum control of all teeth. This gives the doctor the ability to bodily move, tip, or torque any and all of the teeth in order to straighten them and create a healthy lasting smile.

Q. What kind of braces do you have?

A.  Dr. Fried offers silver, gold and clear braces with elastic ties any color you choose. Dr. Fried also offers Invisalign®.

Q. Are braces uncomfortable?

A.  Today's braces are smaller and smoother than ever. They are designed to minimize irritate of the tongue and cheeks as little as possible. The high-tech titanium arch wires Dr. Fried uses are activated by a patient's body temperature, applying gentle forces over a long time period. When new wires are placed, there may be period of discomfort, lasting 24 to 48 hours.

Q. How long will I have to have braces?

A.  For most patients, active treatment time is approximately 18 to 24 months. The actual time depends upon the severity of the problem, the cooperation of the patient, and the growth of the patient's mouth and face.

Retainers are generally to be worn on a fill time basis for the first thee months after appliance removal. They can be worn on a night time basis for an indefinite amount of time

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