What is an orthodontist?

An orthodontist is a dentist who has attended a specialty educational program for advanced dental specialty training for a period of two or three years. If the orthodontist is a member of the American Association of Orthodontists you can be assured they have received the appropriate training.

Why is orthodontics important?

An attractive smile and improved self-image is just one of the benefits of orthodontic treatment. Alleviating and preventing physical health problems is just as important. Without treatment, orthodontic problems can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, bone destruction, chewing and digestive difficulties, speech impairments, tooth loss and other dental injuries.

Will braces hurt?

Dr. Doerfler is using the most current technology for orthodontic movement of teeth. These latest technological advances have made treatment more comfortable for patients. The orthodontic braces are smaller and smoother, plus gentle wires provide continuous light forces over a longer period of time. Typically the patient is not uncomfortable while in the office but will experience some discomfort for two to three days after each adjustment. Over the counter pain relievers can be taken for sore teeth.

Will I still be able to play sports?

Yes. It is recommended, however, that patients protect their smiles by wearing a mouth guard when participating in any sporting activity.

Will braces interfere with playing musical instruments?

No. However, there may be an initial period of adjustment. In addition, brace covers can be provided to prevent discomfort.

What is TMJ?

TMJ Dysfunction is a condition of the jaw that occurs when the Temporo Mandibular Joint is misaligned or malfunctioning in a way that subjects the joint to excess pressure. TMJ can seriously affect how your mouth works and often includes side-effects such as neck pain, headaches and difficulty chewing.

What is malocclusion?

The technical term for teeth that do not fit together correctly is 'malocclusion'. Most malocclusions are inherited, however, it is possible to acquire a bad bite from habits such as tongue thrusting and thumb sucking. The premature loss of baby teeth or the extraction of adult teeth can cause the development of malocclusion. Inherited malocclusions are usually caused by difference between the size of the teeth and the size of the jaw structure. Whether inherited or acquired, malocclusions affect not only the alignment of the teeth, but also the appearance of the face.

Can I be assured that all instruments are sterilized and that there is adequate infection control?

You will notice that the doctors and chair-side assistants wear rubber gloves when ever treating the patients. This is done for your protection and to minimize the risk of disease transmission. All instruments are fully heat sterilized between all patients. Our heat sterilizer is tested by an independent testing service to assure that the equipment is functioning thoroughly on all of our patients.

How long do I have to wear braces?

Many factors determine length of treatment, such as bite problem, response to treatment, and cooperation on the part of the patient. You may be surprise to hear that age is not a major factor. Although, some minor tooth movement can be resolved in less than a year, complex cases may need two or three years for completion.

Are retainers necessary and how long will I have to wear one?

A retainer is a device worn full or part-time after braces have been removed. The retainer is designed to prevent your teeth from drifting or moving while the bone around your teeth hardens and stabilizes. The longer you wear your retainer, the better your chances that your teeth will not relapse. Retainers provide assurance that your teeth will stay in alignment while your jaw continues to grow or develop.

What is Phase I treatment?

Interceptive or early treatment treatment is initiated at 7 to 9 years of age for severe bite problems. Some problems must be treated at a younger age to produce the best orthodontic result. If a severe problem is delayed to a later age a complete correction may not be possible. Early orthodontic treatment can sometimes avoid extractions of permanent teeth and can produce a more stable result. Phase I treatment is typically for 12 to 18 months followed by retainers for several years until all permanent teeth erupt. Some patients require Phase II (full braces) at approximately age 12 to finish the correction of the bite problem.

What is Phase II treatment?

Sixteen new permanent teeth will have erupted between the age of 10 to 12 years old. At approximately age 12 Dr. Doerfler will recommend complete diagnostic records to determine the extent, method, and costs of Phase II treatment. The extent of Phase II treatment can range from new retainers up to full braces for one to two years to finish correction of the bite problem.

What is Surgical Orthodontics (orthognathic surgery)?

Surgical orthodontics is recommended for adult patients and some teenagers with severe skeletal deformities. Sometimes the jaw position is so far off from normal that conventional orthodontic care cannot correct the skeletal deformity. Surgical orthodontics is done in combination with full banded orthodontic care. Surgery of the jaw structure usually occurs during the middle of comprehensive orthodontic treatment approximately one year after the braces are applied to the teeth.

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