The exact type of treatment that will be required to correct the problem will obviously depend upon the information that was gained from the diagnosis. However, we can divide therapy into four general categories. They are functional orthopedic therapy, extraction therapy, surgical therapy, and fixed appliance therapy. In order to eliminate confusion, let's briefly define these four concepts of treatment.
Functional Orthopedic Therapy: When a removable orthopedic appliance is used to correct jaws that are growing improperly. A different form of appliance may be required to treat different growth problems.
Extraction Therapy: When the removal of permanent teeth is required in order to correct an orthodontic problem. This technique is used very selectively as it is usually in the patient's beet interest to maintain all of the permanent teeth if possible.
Surgical Therapy: Just as the name implies, this procedure is reserved for those patients whose bony Imbalance has progressed to the point that only surgical intervention can correct the problem.
Fixed Appliance Therapy: This is the conventional appliance technique using fixed braces. The appliance Is attached to each individual tooth for precise positioning of the teeth. It should be noted that quite frequently two or more of these techniques are combined in order to achieve the desired results. Your dentist will explain to you the type of treatment that can best correct the patient's problem.
Who is responsible?
The treatment is a cooperative effort. It is very important that everyone involved understands his or her responsibilities in order for the treatment to be successful. Also the overall cost of the therapy is directly related to the patient's compliance.
The Dentist - The role of the dentist is to recognize the patient's problem and to select and apply the appropriate therapy.
The Patient - It is the patient's job to faithfully wear the appliance and to follow the instructions of the doctor.
The Parent - It is the responsibility of the parent to see that the child is wearing the appliance and following the appropriate Instructions of the doctor. This relationship is called the "triangle of success." When everyone does their job correctly, the results be astounding.
Lets get under way!
Now that we have a basic understanding of the problem and the treatment, let's get down to the "nuts and bolts" of every day therapy. Most cases require between two and three years of active treatment to correct.
This means that discipline is Important. All appointments must be kept. If you fail to keep appointments, then the treatment will be longer and more difficult for the doctor and more expensive for the patient. No one is a winner, if appointments and instructions are honored then the treatment goal is obtained quicker, easier, and cheaper. Everyone benefits. Don't forget the triangle for success!!!!!!