FAQS

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ANSWERS TO COMMON QUESTIONS ABOUT ORTHODONTICS

Why choose an orthodontist?

Selecting an orthodontist in Missouri City who can help you achieve your smile dreams is important. Orthodontists are dental specialists who diagnose, prevent and treat dental and facial irregularities.They receive an additional two to three years of specialized education beyond dental school to learn the proper way to align and straighten teeth. Only those with this formal education may call themselves “orthodontists,” and only orthodontists may be members of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO).Dr. Chiang from Brilliant Smiles has achieved this specialization and is an active member in AAO.

When should children get an orthodontic check-up?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an orthodontic screening at age seven. By this age, most children have several permanent teeth that have erupted, letting us evaluate their orthodontic needs.By this age, Dr. Chiang can spot subtle problems with jaw growth and emerging teeth while some baby teeth are still present.That’s important, because some orthodontic problems may be easier to correct if they’re found early. Most orthodontic patients begin active braces treatment between ages 9 and 14.

Can adults benefit from orthodontic treatment?

Orthodontic treatment can be successful at almost any age. In fact, about one in every four orthodontic patients today is over age 18.Thanks to today’s smaller, less visible and more comfortable orthodontic appliances, including metal braces, ceramic braces, and Invisalign, adults find treatment appealing.

How long does treatment take?

Patients who need orthodontic treatment generally have one to three years of active treatment.This can be determined through a free consultation at our Missouri City office.

How much does treatment cost?

The cost of orthodontic treatment depends on many factors, including the severity of the problem, how complex the problem is, and how long treatment lasts.Dr. Chiang will be glad to discuss the cost of treatment and your financing options with you before treatment begins.The good news is that braces are more affordable today than ever. Our staff also works with insurance companies and offers payment plans that meet your family’s budget.

What causes orthodontic problems?

Most orthodontic problems are inherited. Examples of these genetic problems are crowding, spacing, protrusion, extra or missing teeth and some jaw growth problems.Other oral problems are caused by thumb- or finger-sucking, dental disease, accidents, the early or late loss of baby teeth, or other causes.

Why is treatment so important?

Crooked and crowded teeth are hard to clean and maintain. A bad bite can also cause abnormal wear of tooth surfaces, difficulty in chewing and/or speaking, and excess stress on supporting bone and gum tissue.Without treatment, many problems become worse and can require additional dental care later in life.

What is my role in treatment?

Orthodontic treatment is a partnership of the doctor and patient. Dr. Chiang provides custom-made fixed or removable appliances that use gentle pressure to move teeth into their proper positions.Your job is to follow Dr. Chiang instructions, keep scheduled orthodontic appointments and maintaining excellent oral hygiene to get the best results.You will also need to see your general dentist as recommended to continue your general dental care.

I had braces as a teen, and now as an adult my teeth are out of place. What can I do?

If you notice an unwanted change in your smile or bite, contact Brilliant Smiles Orthodontics at (832) 753-1523 for information. An orthodontic “tune up” may be necessary to regain proper alignment.

Will wisdom teeth cause teeth to shift?

Not necessarily. Research suggests that wisdom teeth don’t always cause teeth to shift.In most cases, wisdom teeth are removed for general dental health reasons rather than for orthodontic health. Your family dentist or Dr. Chiang can help determine whether or not your wisdom teeth need to be removed.

How long do I have to wear retainers after treatment?

Dr. Chiang will recommend how long to continue wearing your retainers, whether they are removable (the kind you put in and take out) or fixed (bonded behind your teeth). Wearing your retainers as prescribed is the best way to keep your teeth from moving after your orthodontic treatment.There are many reasons teeth may move following orthodontic treatment. Teeth are not set in concrete, they are in bone. Because bone around your teeth is continually changing (breaking down and rebuilding), your teeth may shift after your braces are removed.By wearing your retainers, your teeth are more likely to remain where Dr. Chiang has placed them through braces treatment.

Why do some teeth shift?

The small changes that happen after braces are removed are due to settling in as you use your teeth for biting and chewing. The more serious and unwanted changes may be traced to genetics or later-than-normal growth, which is unpredictable.Movement is most common in lower front teeth. This is particularly true if the teeth were extremely crowded prior to treatment. Changes in tooth position are a lifelong and naturally occurring phenomenon.The best way to keep your teeth from shifting is to wear your retainers as prescribed. If you notice movement after your braces are removed, please contact Brilliant Smiles Orthodontics.

What should my long-term expectations be?

The fact is that throughout your lifetime, even though you have had orthodontic treatment, you can expect changes in tooth position. Many factors at work may cause teeth to shift. Such changes are different for everyone and most of the time they are hardly noticeable.However, on occasion changes can occur that are disappointing to both the patient and Dr. Chiang. Changes in tooth position are not a failure of your orthodontic treatment. They are a natural process. We expect changes in our bodies as we grow older, and teeth are no exception.To help control and limit these changes, retainers are prescribed after your braces are removed.

Can retainers be worn too long?

No. Retainers stabilize and preserve the alignment of teeth and jaws that orthodontic treatment achieved.Many people wear removable retainers nightly for the rest of their lives. Ask your orthodontist for guidance about your long-term retainer use.

Should I continue to see my family dentist?

Yes. Continuing to visit your family dentist once every six months for routine cleanings and dental check-ups is very important, even during your orthodontic treatment.We will be happy to coordinate with your family dentist if your teeth are in need of extra dental care. We only want you to be comfortable and confident that your teeth can and will receive the best care possible.

*Some Text Courtesy of the American Association of Orthodontists

Schedule A Free Consultation

At Brilliant Smiles, we care about you like family, providing top-tier orthodontic care in a comfortable, fun setting. Schedule your free consultation today with Dr. Chiang and start your journey towards a brilliant, confident smile!
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