Frequently Asked Questions

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Frequently Asked Questions About Orthodontics:*

More than 4 million people in the United States and Canada are in the care of orthodontists and looking forward to a beautiful, healthy smile that's good for life. The obvious potential reward is straighter teeth that are less prone to decay, injury and gum problems. But just as important is the boost to self-confidence that a better smile can provide. A great smile may aid one in getting a better job, better spouse, a better life.

As you prepare to make decisions about orthodontics, it is very important to be armed with the facts. Here is a checklist of what to keep in mind:

Why is orthodontics important?

Orthodontics can boost a person's self image as the teeth, jaw and lips become properly aligned. An attractive smile is just one of the benefits. Alleviating or preventing dental health problems is just as important.

Without treatment, orthodontic problems may lead to tooth decay, gum disease, bone destruction and chewing and digestive difficulties. A "bad bite" can contribute to speech impairment, tooth loss, chipped teeth and other dental injuries, including TMJ or"jaw joint" problems.

When a teenager has braces, he learns invaluable lessons. The patient not only learns to take care of his teeth, but also learns self discipline. The patient learns the adult principle of putting off present pleasures for future greater pleasures. It is a maturing experience. One that is difficult for a young person to get any other way. Some patients do not finish properly because they do not have, and refuse to learn, enough self discipline to complete the orthodontic process.

When should my child first see an orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child should see an orthodontist no later than age seven. In some cases, this could be as young as two or three.

Many orthodontic problems are easier to correct if detected early rather than waiting until jaw growth has slowed. Early treatment may mean a patient will avoid surgery or other more serious correctional process later in life.

Is it ever too late for a person to get braces?

No. Because healthy teeth can be moved at any age. An orthodontist can improve the smile of practically anyone. In fact, orthodontists regularly treat patients in their fifties, sixties and older!

What makes an orthodontist different from a general or family dentist?

Orthodontist are the dental specialists who correct dental and facial irregularities, day in and day out. An orthodontist is an expert at moving teeth, helping jaws develop properly and working with the patient to help make sure the teeth stay in their new positions.

Orthodontists are uniquely qualified to correct "bad bites". The American Dental Association requires orthodontists to have at least two years of post-doctoral, advanced specialty training in orthodontics in an accredited program, after graduation from college and dental school.

Any dentist that produces fillings, dentures or doesn't limit his practice to orthodontics is NOT an orthodontist. If this dentist tells you he/she is, ask to see the AAO membership plaque or orthodontic training diploma from an accredited school. The only way that a dentist can do anything other than orthodontics and still call himself an orthodontist is to have a dual specialty in another area of dentistry such as periodontics, a specialist in treating gum disease.

What does dental orthopedics mean?

Orthodontists began to use this term quite a while ago. Progress in orthodontic treatment has allowed orthodontists to not only move teeth but to change the shape of the jawbones, themselves. This has opened up greater treatment possibilities. When one jaw grows more or less than another, or grows more on one side than another, there are now things that we can do about it. Sometimes, this involves the wearing of what is called a functional appliance. Sometimes, correction of the problem requires the use of an extra oral appliance. Sometimes, correction requires jaw, or orthognathic, surgery. If the patient is seen early enough, conservative treatment is often enough. But something can be done at any age.

What does it mean when an orthodontist is certified by the American Board of Orthodontics?

When an orthodontist is certified by the American Board of Orthodontics, it means that he has stood before the sharpest minds in orthodontics to have his past orthodontic treatment evaluated. This evaluation process is extensive and takes a lot of time and effort to prepare for. Most orthodontist don't want to take this time and expense. Some orthodontists have been unable to pass this rigorous test. In fact, less than one in four orthodontists are Board Certified. Dr. Grimes was the tenth orthodontist in Alabama to be certified. This was in 1989, many years after he started practice. It is one of the achievements of which he is most proud.

What about costs?

Many orthodontic problems require only limited treatment. You may be surprised to discover that orthodontics is less expensive than you thought. Your orthodontist will be happy to discuss fees. He may offer payment plans to help meet individual financial needs. In addition, many dental insurance plans now include orthodontic benefits. Of course, it is important to keep in mind the lifetime value that orthodontics provides.

Do braces hurt?

Yes, braces occasionally cause the teeth to be sore. This soreness may last for several days. Some patients have very little real pain. Some seem to hurt more. Everything that an orthodontists uses in the mouth can poke, pinch or scrape. There will probably be some poking at some time in every mouth. An orthodontist is usually very good at not letting these things happen. If a tooth is starting to move, it will get sore. This tells you that things are starting to happen, that progress is being made. This soreness is a small price to pay for straight teeth. Millions are doing it this very minute.

It does not hurt when the doctor puts the braces on. Brackets that hold the wires that will straighten teeth and jaws are glued on. There is no pushing to get bands on anymore at Dr. Grimes' office. We only use them when a patient continues to have loose brackets. The worst part about the bonding process is having to sit still for the several minutes it takes. It hurts about as much as painting your fingernails.

We advise that the night before braces are placed that the patient take two to four Advil with supper, depending on the size of the patient. The morning of the bonding, again, two to four Advil. Then two to four after braces are placed. This will usually take care of the soreness or at least make it bearable.

Should I ask to talk to present and/or former patients?

It is wise for a consumer to investigate the value of any product or service. Most orthodontic patients will give it to you straight--- orthodontics is one of the best investments they've ever made. Better self-esteem and better oral health are benefits that can last a lifetime. Dr. Grimes will be glad to have you talk to current or former patients who can tell you firsthand how braces have improved their lives.

Who can recommend an orthodontist?

Ask your family dentist to recommend an orthodontist. Dr. Grimes encourages you to call his office to make an appointment for yourself or your family if your think orthodontics might be needed. The first examination is free. His office number is 256-546-2818. You can find the names of American Association of Orthodontist members in your area simply be calling a toll free number, 1-800-STRAIGHT (1-800-787-2444). Or write the AAO at 401 North Lindbergh Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63141-7816. At the above number, you can also ask for "Good Beginnings", the AAO's free brochure on early orthodontic diagnosis, or for information on adult orthodontics and many other topics.

Anyone considering orthodontics for themselves or a child can take advantage of the "Smile Bank", the AAO's free computer imaging program. Just send in a close-up photo with a big, toothy smile. An orthodontist will prepare a computer generated "after braces" picture. Mail your photo (and return address) to the American Association of Orthodontists, c/o "Smiles", and you'll receive a free photo showing how your smile might benefit from orthodontic treatment.

*with the help of Bill Beggs and Pam Paladin of The Hughes Group.

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