Orthodontics Questions and Answers

Question:

My overbites are long and one is longer than the other ,whatis the procedure you have to do because my parents are suppose to take me to an orthodontics so i can get them fixed so can you tell me the cost and procedure thank you.

Answer:

It is not possible to diagnose and plan a treatment for a patient without x-rays and models of the teeth. Visit an Orthodontist in your area an he/she can develop a treatment plan for you. The cost varies in different regions of the USA and from Orthodontist to Orthodontist. It is possible to visit more than one Orthoddontist to compare treatment plans and their fees. One of the most important factors in selecting an Orthodontist is to select an office where you feel comfortable and have confidence in the Orthodontist.

Question:

Do options exist to have braces put behind the teeth? If so, what might the average cost be? Does dental insurance usually cover braces? Thank you.

Answer:

Some orthodontists offer lingual braces ("behind the teeth"). I do not use lingual braces in my practice, instead for patients who are concerned about asthetics, I offer clear ceramic braces. A number of insurance plans do cover orthodontics today.

Question:

I have 2 questions: 1. My daughter who is nearly 7 years old, has inherited Class III, skeletal malocclusion. Two out of three orthos we've consulted recommend starting treatment right now. Treatment would consist of expanding the upper arch and the use of a chin cup with anterior traction to upper teeth. We've read studies that indicate that in the short-term results from this treatment are very effective but that long-term, growth of the lower jaw can resume, in adolescence. What is the success rate for permanent treatment of class III at an early age? Can early treatment lead to greater problems later on to correct additional growth at a later age? Do you recommend treatment at this age? 2. My other daughter who is nearly 9 has excessive overcrowding. Two orthos we've consulted recommend we wait until more adult teeth come out. One ortho recommends the extraction of 7 baby teeth and the use of a space maintainer to allow more room for the adult teeth. Do the baby teeth not already act as a space maintainer, therefore making this apparatus unnecessary? Is there a chance that her jaw will develop normally allowing room for all her adult teeth? What do you recommend? Any info. you can provide would be greatly appreciated, as we are a little confused given the differences of opinion. Thank You

Answer:

1) Class III malocclusions are very difficult to correct. If the discrepancy between the upper and lower jaw is too great, jaw surgery in combination with orthodontics is required to achieve a correction. Consequently, children in the 7 to 9 year range who demonstrate class III growth are frequently treated to re-direct this unfavorable growth. I treat each patient individually addressing their specific circumstances. Sometimes I do begin treatment at 7 years of age. 2) While I can't diagnose a patient without seeing him/her, generally the space for the permanent teeth in front of the first permanent molars has been determined as soon as these molars erupt. There are appliances available to expand the dental arches to some extent. Although all orthodontists have similar goals for the patient, the method of achieving those goals can vary from orthodontist to orthodontist. Sometimes there can be a significant variance in the treatment plan.

Question:

What materials are crowns and posts made of, and why?

Answer:

This question is more appropriate for a general dentist. While Orthodontists must first earn a degree in denistry, we specialize in treating patients with abnormal growth patterns and improper bites. We do not utilize crowns and posts in the practice orthodontics.

Question:

How can i find out if an Orthodontist is member of the American Orthodontics Association? I feel that my orthodontist has not provided the correct otho treatment, how can I relieve my fears??

Answer:

Call the American Association of Orthodontists at (314) 993-1700 or visit their web site at www.aaortho.org or e-mail the association at info@aaortho.com. They have a listing of all member orthodontists. First, I would encourage you to talk to your orthodontist about your concerns. If you still have questions or concerns get a second opinion from another orthodontist in your area.

Question:

I have had stage I (UPPP) and stage II (Le Forte I Osteotomy/R&L Sagittal Split Osteotomy/Anterior Subapical Osteotomy of the Mandible/Apicoectomy and Retrofill teeth #22 & #23) to resolve severe obstructive sleep apnea resulting in severe malocclusion. My medical insurance, Blue Cross of Calif. authorized orthodontic treatment, then called my surgeon, Dr. M. Blum, rescinding approval. Can you provide me with any cases authorized for medically required orthodontics and/or information I may provide at the stage III appeal hearing set for next week? I will be representing myself at this meeting, and not quite sure of what to say. If needed, please call me @ 714-842-2737. Thank you.

Answer:

Dear Shileen, I cannot offer you any case history for medically necessary orthodontics related to sleep apnea,or not. I would suggest you ask your surgeon to go to bat for you, as well as the orthodontist, and your primary care physician. However, it is not unusual for orthodontic care to be denied as the insurance companies consider it elective, and cosmetic. Good luck.

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