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ST. LOUIS - Models strutting the fashion runways are sporting the latest accessory-orthodontic braces. Braces-wearing kids having their rubber bands changed ask the orthodontist to adorn their brackets with the proper hues to show school spirit. Adults select colors to coordinate their braces with the rest of their ensembles.
Yesterday: A badge of adolescent geekiness. Today: Sleek, lightweight fashion for the pearly whites. Wires, brackets, rubber bands and retainers are all the rage. "Tin grin" isn't a taunt-it's a compliment.
Just how hip and happening are braces, anyhow? When Isabella Rossellini debuted her makeup line last spring, the smile behind the model's lush lip gloss sparkled with braces. A recent ad for Chase Manhattan Bank features a father and daughter sharing an ice cream cone-orthodontic hardware complements both smiles.
"Braces have come of age," says Dr. Mervin W. Graham of Denver, former president of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO). "Although healthy, beautiful smiles have always been in style, this 'fashion' trend is good for patients-motivated patients are far more likely to follow their orthodontist's instructions, and complete their treatment on-time with good results."
What Do You Mean, I Don't Need Braces?
"We recently had a young lady leave in tears when she realized she wouldn't be getting braces like her big sister," says Dr. Lee Graber, who practices in Kenilworth, Ill., near Chicago. In the past, the younger sister might have breathed a sigh of relief.
In New York City, an orthodontist's office reports that a boy called from his mother's cell phone, wondering when he might swing by to get braces on. After determining that the young caller wasn't a patient, nor had his need for orthodontic treatment been determined, the receptionist politely suggested to the disappointed young man that he talk with his parents and his dentist. Then, if appropriate, his parents could make an appointment with the orthodontist.
The young New Yorker learned the hard way that orthodontists won't put braces put on just for looks. Orthodontists will only treat those patients who need treatment. As Jane Larkworthy, editor of the young women's magazine Jane, observes about the purpose of braces: "They fix things!"
Straighter Teeth May Be Healthier Teeth
Preventing or alleviating dental or physical health problems is the goal of orthodontic treatment.
"In general, teeth and jaws that are properly aligned work better, too," says Dr. Graham. Without treatment, orthodontic problems may lead to tooth decay, gum disease, deterioration of bone and difficulties with chewing and digestion. A "bad bite" may contribute to the chipping or loss of teeth.
Age 7: A Year to Remember
The AAO recommends that every child get a check-up with an orthodontic specialist no later than age 7. Orthodontists can spot subtle problems with jaw growth and emerging teeth, even while some baby teeth are present. A check-up may tell parents whether or not a problem is developing.
"An orthodontic check-up can ease a parent's mind, because more often than not, our recommendation is 'let's wait and see,'" notes Dr. Graham.
Even if a problem is detected, immediate treatment may not be recommended. Most likely, the orthodontist will want to check on the child periodically. By being permitted to monitor the patient "as the face and jaws continue to grow," Dr. Graham points out, the orthodontist can start treatment at the ideal time to achieve the best results. The majority of patients begin orthodontic treatment between the ages of 9 and 14.
In some cases, however, the orthodontist may recommend early treatment. Take the case of Jennifer, a patient of Dr. John McGill of Plattsburgh, N.Y. Jennifer inherited her mother's overbite and receding chin. Correction of Jennifer's problem began at age 7. The orthodontist used materials and techniques to guide development of her jaw and correct her overbite, resulting in a better environment for her emerging adult teeth. Then, as a teenager, Jennifer wore braces to straighten her teeth and complete the treatment.
Braces Aren't 'Kids' Stuff' - Adults Join the Ranks
Healthy teeth, bones and gums respond well to orthodontic treatment-making it successful at almost any age. In fact, about one in every five orthodontic patients today is over age 18. With today's smaller, less visible brackets, many adults find braces an appealing option. Some adults embark on treatment after they witness a transformation in their kids. What's more, treatment is easier on the budget than prospective patients might imagine-many dental insurance plans provide orthodontic benefits, and AAO members are happy to work with a patient's family to arrive at an affordable payment plan.
For more information about orthodontics or for the names of AAO member orthodontists in your area, visit www.braces.org or call 1-800-STRAIGHT (1-800-787-2444). Your dentist also can provide recommendations on orthodontists near you.
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Who is an orthodontist?
An orthodontist specializes in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. Orthodontists receive an additional two-to-three years of specialized education beyond dental school to learn the proper way to align and straighten teeth. Only orthodontists are eligible for membership in the AAO.
About the American Association of Orthodontists:
The AAO comprises 15,000 members in the United States, Canada and abroad. Founded in 1900, the AAO supports research and education leading to quality patient care and promotes increased public awareness of the need for and benefits of orthodontic treatment. Orthodontists are uniquely qualified to correct improperly aligned teeth and jaws. They are specialists in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. The American Dental Association requires orthodontists to have at least two academic years of advanced specialty training in orthodontics in an accredited program, after graduation from dental school.
Press Contact:
Pam Paladin
(314) 993-1700, ext. 524
ppaladin@aaortho.org
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