Q: Are braces used for cosmetic reasons only or are they also used for health reasons?
A: Braces are usually used to fix 'bad bites' or teeth that are crowded or crooked. A 'bad bite' where the upper and lower jaws do not meet properly and can exist even if the teeth are straight. Jaw or tooth alignment problems may come from an injury, early or late tooth loss and thumb sucking. They may also be inherited.
Q: How are teeth straightened?
A: Traditionally, orthodontists place small brackets on the teeth with cement and connect them together by a wire. These are called braces. The orthodontist (a dentist who specializes in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial problems) changes the position of the teeth by tightening the braces a little bit about once a month. The pressure from the tightening gradually moves the teeth into a new position so that the upper and lower teeth line up correctly. This gives the patient a better 'bite'.
Q: Is my child covered for braces? What are the limitations?
A: After an orthodontist sees your child and decides that braces are needed, he or she will request approval for treatment ('prior authorization'). For HUSKY to pay for braces, your child must:
- have teeth crowded or crooked enough to meet a certain level on the scale used by orthodontists;
- be able to finish treatment by age 21;
- have his or her permanent teeth;
- have good oral health, meaning that all decay in the mouth must be treated and all needed dental work completed before beginning with braces.
Braces are a 'once-in-a-lifetime' benefit under HUSKY. There are many responsibilities for both the parent and child while braces are on the child's teeth. Before beginning treatment, it is important to be sure that you have the time and energy to give for your child to succeed with braces. If you or your child cannot meet the requirements of the orthodontist, the treatment may be ended. It cannot be resumed later under HUSKY.
Q: What can we expect at the orthodontist?
A: The orthodontist will ask questions about general health. He or she will do an exam, take impressions of the teeth, take photos and order X-rays. Then, the orthodontist will make a treatment plan and discuss it with you and your child. Braces are a partnership between the orthodontist and the patient. A person with braces usually has to visit the orthodontist about once each month. It is very important to keep every appointment because the timing of the adjustments made by the orthodontist are what makes the braces do their job of straightening the teeth or realigning the bite.
Most children have their braces for one to three years. After their braces come off, they usually have to wear a 'retainer'. This is worn continually for about six months and then just when sleeping for a period of time. The orthodontist decides that for each patient individually. The retainer holds the teeth in their new positions while the bones, gums and muscles adapt to the changes in your child's mouth.
Q: Does the person with braces still need to go to the regular dentist during the time he or she is being seen by the orthodontist?
A: Yes! Children with braces should see their dentist every six months for cleaning and check-ups especially during orthodontic treatment. It can be harder to keep your teeth clean with braces so this is very important!
|