Using Braces to Treat Jaw Deformities
By Richard Lyons | Published on October 15, 2010 | 0 Comments
For some people, wearing braces is a rite of passage, while for others it’s a source of embarrassment. No matter how you look at it from a social standpoint, the truth of the matter is that braces, and orthodontics in general, have been revolutionizing smiles for decades. In fact, it is the idea of being able to change smiles that Richard M. Lyons says attracted him to the profession even as a young boy.
Now, at his office in Tribeca, using braces to treat patients doesn’t exclusively benefit just the alignment of teeth. When people are more invested in their smiles’ appearance and start to become excited about the idea of straighter teeth, they will, in turn, want to maintain that healthy look. As you may already be aware, your smile is about more than just how straight your teeth are; your gums play a pivotal role in your oral health as well. Therefore, dentists find that patients become more proactive about brushing and flossing once they’ve had braces.
In addition to promoting oral health, Dr. Lyons says that braces may be placed on a patient’s teeth to address jaw deformities as well. The use of braces is usually the first step in a two-part process for aligning the jaw, because it will start to position the teeth into the correct areas. Following the use of braces to begin the placement, oral surgery will be necessary to finalize the setting of the jaw, he adds.
In many cases, Dr. Lyons says, orthodontists find that young children sometimes have both misaligned teeth and a jaw deformities. In these situations, braces will definitely be used first to straighten the teeth, and will then be followed up by oral surgery to correct the bite. The final product, he says, is a straight smile that not only looks great but is comfortable for the patient as well.
Of course, Dr. Lyons continues, it is difficult to pinpoint just how long a patient will need to wear braces prior to surgery if the jaw is part of the overall issue being treated. In many cases, however, it is around two to two and a half years that a patient can anticipate to have the braces on. This is why it is often said that treating the problem at a young age is best, since children and young teens are more likely to submit to wearing braces over adults.
If your dentist or orthodontist suggests that you should be fitted for braces, it is important not to dwell too long on the aesthetic aspects. Instead, consider the long-term benefits to be gained following treatment–now that should make you feel a whole lot better about the situation.
*Disclaimer: The information on this website is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.