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Malocclusions (when opposing teeth of the upper and lower jaws fit together improperly) are both inherited and acquired. Crowded teeth, too much space between teeth, extra or missing teeth, and general mouth and jaw features are examples of inherited problems. Acquired or local factors such as thumb or finger habits, tongue thrusting, airway constriction, decay or gum disease, trauma, and premature loss of baby teeth also contribute to poor tooth alignment and bad bites.

A healthier more beautiful smile
Reduced appearance-consciousness during critical growth years
Better function and comfort with a proper bite
Increased self esteem and confidence
Increased ability to keep teeth clean
Improved force distribution and wear patterns on teeth
Guided facial growth for a more attractive face and profile
Better long term health of the teeth and gums
Reduce or eliminate the need for future jaw surgery
Guide the permanent teeth into a more favorable position
Reduce or eliminate the need to extract teeth
Better lip closure
Improved speech and swallowing
Aid in optimizing other dental treatments
Less strain on the jaw joints and muscles
Prevent premature loss of teeth and aging appearance
Children with pleasing appearance and teeth usually receive more attention in school

Everyone appreciates the importance of a winning smile. It makes a pleasing appearance, promotes self-esteem, and is valuable to social and career success. Creating beautiful smiles is what orthodontics is all about. Today, orthodontic treatment is convenient and affordable, so that individuals from childhood through retirement can enjoy its important benefits. Orthodontics is important not only to a great smile and improved self-confidence, but to better dental health. By aligning teeth and improving the harmony of the lips and face, orthodontics can improve one's general attitude toward life. Teeth, and sometimes entire facial structures, are permanently changed by orthodontic treatment. Teeth in correct alignment are easier to clean, and that can make them more resistant to decay and less susceptible to gum disease and tooth loss. Alignment may also prevent tooth and jaw discomfort that can come from uneven wear.

Chronic head, neck or jaw pain can also be caused by orthodontic problems. When left untreated, many orthodontic problems become worse. They can lead to costly dental care in later years which is often greater than the cost of orthodontics today. By choosing to wear braces, you are taking a positive step in improving your overall dental health and comfort. More than 5 million people in the United States and Canada are in the care of an orthodontist and looking forward to a beautiful, healthy smile that lasts a lifetime. The obvious potential reward is straighter teeth that are less prone to decay and injury. But just as important is the improved self-confidence that a better smile can provide.

ORTHODONTICS is the specialty of dentistry that deals with problems caused by poor alignment of the teeth and jaws. This includes the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. Corrective appliances such as braces are applied and controlled to bring the teeth, lips, and jaws into proper alignment to achieve healthy, functional bites and facial balance. Treatment means more than a beautiful smile; it can also aid the health of the teeth and gums. An orthodontist is specially-trained and certified to diagnose and create personalized treatments for the many types of malocclusions (mismatched teeth). He must undergo two years of additional training after dental school.

To become board eligible he must pass a comprehensive written examination and limit his practice exclusively to the treatment of orthodontic problems. Finally, after practicing for a minimum of five years, one may apply for board certification by the American Board of Orthodontics. This procedure includes presenting a series of case reports on many types of problems treated. These reports include before, after, and two years post-treatment records. After these conditions have been met, the members of the American Board of Orthodontics conduct a complete oral examination of the orthodontist regarding the cases treated, orthodontic care and recent orthodontic advances. If the board is satisfied, the orthodontist becomes certified as a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics.