What are the benefits of orthodontics?

 

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Orthodontics is the specialized branch of dentistry that helps individuals to overcome irregularities in the arrangement of their teeth and jaws. In other words, orthodontic interventions can straighten crooked teeth, correct malocclusions and restore a beautiful smile to individuals of all ages. Plus, straighter teeth are healthier teeth; you can clean them more easily and prevent more serious dental health issues.

What types of braces do you offer?

Tisseront Orthodontics is one of the only Reston Orthodontists to offer such a full array of orthodontic treatments. Our patients may choose from “invisible options” such as lingual braces, Invisalign and ceramic braces, as well as traditional metal braces. Our team will consult with you to help determine the best option for your particular situation.

What is “two-phase” treatment?

At Tisseront Orthodontics, we find that many patients experience the most satisfying, long-lasting and dramatic progress through an early “two-phase” treatment plan. The first phase takes place as early as possible, as a child’s “baby teeth” can already display the first signs of any tooth and jaw alignment issues. Phase one helps to realign the jaw and teeth to avoid more serious issues or more invasive treatments later in life. We typically recommend a consultation for this first phase at around age six.

As the “adult teeth” begin to erupt, we let the patient undergo a resting period. We may extract certain primary teeth at this point to help encourage a healthy transition, without crowding. During the second phrase of the treatment, the child typically wears upper and lower braces to ensure all of the newly erupted teeth are correctly aligned. A retainer may also be worn, afterwards, to ensure that all the progress is maintained throughout life.

How will braces change my daily life?

In fact, wearing braces causes relatively little change to your daily life. Naturally, in order to ensure the best results from your treatment, you will have to learn how to care for your orthodontic devices properly, which can mean making a few adjustments to your usual habits.

For most patients, the biggest adjustment is taking a break from some common snack foods. While wearing braces, it’s best to stop eating any extremely chewy, sticky, crunchy or hard foods. The biggest culprits are: bagels, licorice, popcorn, chips, ice, caramel candies, chewing gum, nuts and hard candies. You’ll also want to avoid biting straight into crisp apples, corn on the cob or crunchy carrots. However, you can still enjoy those foods; you’ll just need to slice them up first.

In spite of some rumors, it’s completely possible to continue playing sports or playing a musical instrument with braces. If you play sports, it’s advisable to wear a mouth guard to protect your braces and avoid any injuries to your mouth. For those who play woodwind or brass instruments, it usually takes a short while for your mouth to “relearn” the right embouchure to play your instrument while wearing your new braces.

Do orthodontic treatments hurt?

In the beginning, braces and other appliances may cause some soreness or tenderness. However, new patients should keep in mind that this discomfort typically subsides very quickly. To soothe any soreness, we recommend dissolving salt in lukewarm water and gargling or swishing this salt water solution for a couple of minutes. (But do not swallow it!) We can also provide you with wax, which you can rub on any hard areas of your braces, to reduce soreness or pain.

What do I do if a wire or band becomes loose?

If you find a loosened band or wire, simply get in touch with us to schedule a checkup and repair. If any pieces of your braces have come off, remember to bring the pieces along with you. In the meantime, you can use some wax or a moistened cotton ball to cover any broken or bent wires and spare you any soreness or pain.

What are HARMONY Braces?

Dr. Stephan Tisseront is not only one of the few orthodontists in Reston to offer HARMONY braces. He is also the largest provider of HARMONY braces anywhere in the United States. HARMONY braces, also known generically as lingual braces, are fitted to the inner edge of your teeth. As a result, they are “invisible” to anyone seeing your smile. Plus, HARMONY braces are specifically designed to be smooth and comfortable, breaking from the traditional “O ring” design.

What is Invisalign®?

Invisalign® is another orthodontic option for individuals concerned about the cosmetics of wearing braces. Unlike traditional metal braces, Invisalign isn’t visible to anyone else. Plus, you can easily remove the braces for brushing, flossing and eating. Invisalign braces also use no metal at all, meaning that you won’t risk any abrasions or soreness.

When are orthodontics right for kids?

In most cases, the earlier you can start orthodontic treatment, the simpler your treatment will be. While the ideal age varies from one person to another, the American Association of Orthodontists advises that children have their first consultation at around age seven. At Tisseront Orthodontics, we specialize in an early-action “two-step” treatment plan, that helps correct tooth and jaw alignment from an early age.

Can teens and adults wear orthodontics?

Although orthodontics works best when done early, it’s never too late to benefit from orthodontic treatment. Many of Tisseront Orthodontics’ patients are teenagers and adults. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, 20 percent of all patients are over age 21. With the increasingly discrete and even “invisible” options now available, adults no longer have to worry about the aesthetics of wearing braces.

When do I need an orthodontist instead of a dentist?

In addition to dental school, orthodontists receive specialized training to improve the alignment of the teeth and jaws. If you have protruding teeth, crowded teeth, asymmetry, impacted teeth or an underbite, overbite or cross-bite, your dentist may refer you to see an orthodontist for the most appropriate treatment.

If you have any other questions relating to your orthodontic treatment contact us here or call us on: 703-773-1200. We will be more than happy to help you.

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