The Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment in Brooklyn with Dr. Mohamed AlJanabi

There are many branches that fall under the tree of dentistry. Each comes with its own collection of terms, procedures and sub-branches. One branch that many individuals become familiar with through a dentists’ referral is orthodontics. The first time patient may be nervous about what to expect. Brooklyn orthodontist Dr. Mohamed AlJanabi, will provide information on the benefits of orthodontic treatment and answer questions during the initial consultation.

Why was I referred to an orthodontist?

Orthodontists address problems with crooked teeth and misaligned jaws. It is ideal to start treatments at about the ages of 10 to 14, the developing adult teeth are easier to straighten at this stage. Nonetheless, orthodontic treatment can be beneficial at any age. Some common conditions that may require orthodontic care are buck teeth, under bite, cross bite, crowding, spacing problems or misplaced midline. Poorly aligned teeth can be very difficult to clean increasing the risk of decay and gum disease. Additional symptoms include headaches, TMJ and neck pain. Some patients may be referred for crooked or displaced teeth that are not aesthetically pleasing.

What treatments are available?

• Fixed appliances

Braces are the most frequently used fixed orthodontic. They are available in metal or clear and can be constructed from either sapphire or a less noticeable tooth-colored ceramic. Brackets and an archwire work together to exert steady pressure to slowly move teeth to a more fitting position. Adjustments are made monthly. It can take at least two years to achieve the desired results.

To keep the surrounding teeth from shifting, a fixed space maintainer may be used to retain the space of a lost tooth. This treatment can be used to keep the space until an adult tooth erupts or replacement denture is inserted.

• Removable appliances

Aligners are a popular alternative to braces. This treatment is less visible than traditional braces making it particularly appealing to adults. A series of removable aligners are worn for about two weeks. The tray is removed to eat, drink, and for daily oral hygiene care. Each time the aligner is replaced your teeth will shift a little more until the misalignment is corrected.

Additional appliances

For joint disorders like TMJ a splint may be needed to correct the way the jaw closes. This type of appliance is used to reposition the upper or lower jaw. Plastic palatal expanders use pressure to widen the bend in the upper jaw.

When treatment with braces is completed and the brackets are removed, a retainer is used to keep the teeth from shifting back to their previous position.

Treatment without appliances

Not all orthodontic issues require an appliance to achieve correction. Dr. Aljanabi and the Brooklyn Orthodontics team may choose tooth extraction or the sequential removal of baby teeth to correct the discomfort of over-crowding in the mouth.

To discuss your case and learn more about various orthodontic treatment in Brooklyn, please call Dr. Aljanabi at Brooklyn Orthodontics at (718) 333-5898 or contact the office online.