Orthodontics

"There are two different types of orthodontics," says Dr. Kevin Davis of Davis Orthodontics in Richmond Hill, Ont. "Comprehensive orthodontics straightens all the teeth and corrects the bite whereas limited orthodontics 'sets the table' so the cosmetic dentist can fiish the job."

If the shape and size of your natural teeth is satisfactory and you want to avoid any artificial materials in your mouth, then comprehensive orthodontics is the answer. It might invole clear braces or removable invisible trays, and take anywhere from six to 24 months.

Pre-cosmetic orthodontics is necessary if the general dentist cannot do his/her job because of the current position of the teeth. Examples include a very large space between the front teeth that would look unsightly if corrected with oversized veneers, or a bite problem that would break your new veneers if the orthodontics were not completed first. Limited orthodontics usually requires less time than comprehensive orthodontics.

Teeth never lose their ability to be moved so adults are excellent candidates for orthodontics."Unlike days gone by, one-third of my orthodontic patients are adults," notes Davis, "because today's tooth-moving tools are much more invisible than the metal braces of the past."