Dental braces are a type of fixed orthodontic appliance used to correct malocclusion. Braces can serve many purposes, depending on the needs of the patient, be it to straighten teeth, correct the bite or close large gaps between teeth. According...
The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) says straightening crooked or poorly aligned teeth can improve a person's ability to properly to chew, bite and speak. Teeth that are correctly aligned also enhance the overall health of teeth and...
Everyone wants a beautiful smile, but for many, straight teeth involve treatment from an orthodontist. According to Colgate World Care, there are relatively few risks involved in orthodontic treatment. Modern orthodontics offer a variety of...
The American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, recommends that children have their first orthodontia appointment by age 7. The reason, according to the AAO, is that developmental problems such as cross bites or narrow jaw can best be treated...
Teeth are necessary for chewing food as well as for being able to speak clearly. Each tooth has a specific function, according to the Kids Health website. Your incisors--the four front teeth and the teeth on either side of them--are shaped like...
As the American Association of Orthodontists states, braces are the term used to usually describe a “fixed orthodontic appliance, usually comprised of brackets, bands and wires.” A band is a metal ring that is cemented to the tooth,...
If your teeth are crowded or misaligned, you may be interested in straightening them. Braces are a popular treatment option; however, some people prefer not to use these devises to align their teeth. If you are one of those people, there are a...
Emerging theories in orthodontic care have changed the timing of when children get braces. By putting braces on baby teeth, orthodontists can better manage jaw growth and positioning of adult teeth. The result is typically a two-phase approach,...
Braces are effective at correcting a variety of dental problems and improving the appearance of crooked or otherwise abnormal teeth. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, more than 4 million American children have braces....
It’s a rite of passage for teens, but many adults are opting to get braces later in life. More than 20 percent of those with braces are adults, as of 2009, and that figure has grown 37 percent in recent years, according to the American...
Orthodontic braces are made up of a handful of appliances that work together to straighten your teeth. A primary component of braces is the brackets. According to Orthodontics.org, brackets are made of tiny pieces of metal or ceramic. A glue-type...
According to BracesReview.com, people who wear braces not only have to be careful about keeping their teeth clean, they also have to avoid the many foods that can damage braces. Avoiding these foods can save time, money and unwanted trips to the...
Dental braces are traditionally made from metal brackets and wires, though more modern types sometimes are constructed from ceramic material. There are certain foods and beverages that are inappropriate for those who wear braces because they can...
Teeth are vitally important because they help you eat, speak and smile. You can usually maintain them with good oral hygiene practices, such as frequent brushing and flossing, but sometimes you may have a problem that goes beyond the normal scope...
Braces are a common orthodontic fixture in children, teens and adults. Thankfully, they should not impair the vast majority of your normal activities, including exercising at the gym. However, when competing in some sports, you may need to use...
Orthodontists are dentists who are trained in diagnosing and treating misalignments of the teeth and jaw. Orthodontists who treat children focus on the development of the teeth and jaws and on preventing or correcting problems with misalignment....
Actors Tom Cruise and Ashley Judd wore braces, and so did songbird Gwen Stefani. Orthodontic braces are dental appliances used to correct the path of permanent teeth that grow in unwieldy directions, creating a malocclusion--a problem with the...
Straight teeth are more important than ever. Besides the dental health they promote, aligned teeth show self-care, self-confidence and attractiveness. A nice smile not only makes a person more attractive, it can help a person feel better about...
Today's braces have changed from a generation ago with a more aesthetic look, more efficiency and better comfort. Orthodontic devices have so many variations they are being used at earlier ages to simplify treatment later on. Adults make up about...
As a kid, you may have enjoyed blowing bubbles and cracking gum, much to the annoyance of the adults around you. As an adult, you may still chew gum as a quick breath freshener or just for enjoyment. If you are concerned that chewing gum may be...
