FAQ
What causes orthodontic problems?
Most orthodontic problems are inherited. Examples of these genetic problems are crowding, spacing, protrusion, extra or missing teeth and some jaw growth problems.
Other malocclusions are acquired by thumb or finger-sucking, dental disease, accidents, the early or late loss of baby teeth, or other causes.
Why is treatment so important?
Crooked teeth are hard to clean and maintain. Additionally, a bad bite can cause abnormal wear or abrasion of the tooth surfaces, difficulty in chewing and/or speaking, and excess stress on supporting bone and gum tissue. Without treatment, many problems may become worse and could require additional care later in life.
Why select an orthodontist?
Orthodontists are dental specialists who diagnose, prevent and treat dental and facial irregularities or deformities. They receive an additional three years of specialized education beyond dental school to master the proper way to align and straighten teeth. Only those with this formal education may call themselves Orthodontists.
When should children get an orthodontic check-up?"
The AAO recommends that your child get an orthodontic check-up no later than age 7.
By this age, orthodontists can spot subtle problems with jaw growth and emerging teeth while some baby teeth are still present. This is very important because some orthodontic problems could be easier to correct when they are found early. The majority of orthodontic patients start active treatment between the ages of 9 and 13.
Can adults benefit from orthodontic treatment?
Orthodontic treatment can be successful at almost any age. In fact, about one in every five orthodontic patients today is over age 18.
Thanks to today’s smaller, less visible, and more comfortable orthodontic appliances, including fixed braces and removable appliances, adult patients are finding treatment more appealing and much less unconfortable. The number of adults in orthodontic treatment has increased tremendously over the past decade.
What is my role during the orthodontic treatment?
Any orthodontic treatment is a partnership between the doctor and the patient. The orthodontist provides custom-made fixed or removable appliances that are designed to use gentle pressure to move the teeth into their correct positions. For the patient, he is required to follow the instructions of the orthodontist, to keep the scheduled appointments, and to maintain proper oral hygiene to achieve the desired objectives.
What are the different types of braces offered by the orthodontist at SGP, Beirut, Lebanon?
- Traditional metal braces
- Ceramic/clear braces
- Invisible braces/Clear Aligners like Invisalign and others
- Lingual braces
How long does the treatment take?
The amount of time spent in treatment will vary depending on the individual patient, because every smile responds differently to treatment. Treatment times can take as little as 3-6 months especially in adult patients who require a limited treatment and as long as 30 months in very difficult and complex cases. Standard treatments in children take an average of 22 months.
How much does the treatment cost?
The cost of orthodontic treatment will depend on many factors, including the severity of the problem, its complexity as well as length of treatment.
Our orthodontist will be read y to discuss the cost of treatment and your various financing options before the start of the treatment.