Many people have questions about orthodontics and orthodontic treatment. Dr. Renick has provided some answers to frequently asked questions on this page. If you have further questions, or to schedule an appointment at Renick Orthodontics, please call our office at 740-936-5003.

If you don’t see your question on the website or on the list below, please feel free to contact us and ask. Remember, no question is ever “stupid” and if it has crossed your mind, it may have crossed someone else’s.

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What is Bruxism?
Bruxism is the grinding of the teeth. This is generally a nighttime habit and a subconscious expression of stress. The teeth gnash together in “parafunction” or an abnormal sideways motion. In the mouth, the teeth will show wear patterns or wear facets, flattened surfaces from the motion of the teeth. Bruxism can cause traumatic occlusion (see below) and cause gum issues as well as tooth issues.

What is Traumatic Occlusion?
Traumatic occlusion occurs when the teeth hit abnormally. A patient can chip or wear teeth when this occurs. This can even cause problems in the gum tissue. Crossbites are examples of traumatic occlusions. Occlusion means bite.

What is orthodontics?
Orthodontics is a field of dentistry that specializes in focusing on diagnosing, preventing and treating dental and facial irregularities, including misaligned teeth and jaws. An orthodontist is a dental specialist who has received two to three years of additional training following dental school in managing tooth movement and guiding facial development.

When should my child receive their first orthodontic screening?
The American Association of Orthodontists® recommends that children receive their initial orthodontic screening by age 7. At this age, several permanent teeth have erupted and any developing problems will be easy to diagnose and treat. Not all children will actually require treatment at this time, but the screening is preventative so that children who would benefit from early intervention don’t slip through the cracks.

Am I too old for orthodontic treatment?
No! While the majority of patients who receive orthodontic treatment are children or teenagers, more and more adults are seeking orthodontic treatment to improve their smiles and oral health. As long as your teeth and supporting structures are healthy, you can receive treatment.

What are my options for braces?
There are many types of braces available today. The three most common types of braces are metal braces, ceramic or clear braces, and clear aligners. During your consultation appointment, our orthodontist will help you determine which type of braces is right for you. To learn more about the braces we offer or schedule your consultation appointment, call our office.

How do I keep my teeth clean with braces?
It is essential to maintain good oral hygiene while you are wearing braces. To keep your smile healthy while wearing braces, we encourage you to follow these steps:

• Brush your teeth three times a day, especially after meals
• Clean around your brackets and wires thoroughly
• Floss every day, even if you require a floss threader to reach between your braces
• Rinse your teeth each time you clean them
• Pay attention to the list of foods to avoid with braces. Focus on what you CAN have rather than what you CAN’T have.

We understand caring for your smile may be difficult while wearing braces, but we encourage you to maintain good oral hygiene. Poor oral hygiene while wearing braces may result in tooth damage, tooth decay or prolonged orthodontic treatment.

What do I do if I have an orthodontic emergency?
If you experience an orthodontic emergency please call Renick Orthodontics at 740-936-5003 as soon as possible. We never want you to experience discomfort or pain, and ask that you call us even if you have a regular appointment scheduled in the near future. Upon notifying the office, you will be advised whether or not you need to be seen sooner. We like to repair breakage ASAP to minimize any extension to your treatment time.

Orthodontic emergencies may include:

• Poking wires
• Wire irritations
• Pain caused by braces or other orthodontic appliances

Other concerns that may not be emergencies but require you to notify the office may include:

• Loose brackets
• Loose bands
• Lost separators

What is headgear?
Orthodontic headgear is a very important part of some patients’ treatments. Headgear is an orthopedic appliance that creates the force needed to guide the growth of the face and jaws until they are in their proper positions. It is also used to properly position teeth and prevent them from moving. We may recommend headgear if braces alone cannot accomplish the desired results. There are two main types of orthodontic headgear that are often used; our orthodontist will determine which is best suited to your unique needs. Each type of headgear attaches to your braces to achieve proper positioning of the jaw and teeth.

How long will I need orthodontic treatment?
Orthodontic treatment times vary greatly depending on the patient. With advanced technology, orthodontic treatment is now faster, more comfortable and more effective than in years past, making it a great time to straighten your smile. During your consultation, our orthodontist will work with you to create a treatment plan that suits all of your orthodontic needs. Your treatment will be completed when your teeth are aligned in a healthy, functional manner.

Can an orthodontist help me with jaw problems?
We are committed to treating all of your orthodontic problems so that you can achieve a smile that is straighter, healthier, more functional and more attractive. Some of the most common orthodontic problems we see at our office include the following:

• Overbites
• Underbites
• Open bites
• Crossbites
• Upper front teeth protrusion

Dentofacial orthopedics is a type of orthodontic treatment focused on the control and modification of facial growth. Dentofacial orthopedic treatment works to normalize the growth of bone structure and repair the related imbalances of the face and jaws.

I’m not familiar with orthodontics – what can I expect?
For many people, orthodontics is a new experience that comes with questions about what to expect. Our staff is fantastic about explaining what they are doing when they are doing it in order to help you understand and fell more at ease during your visit.

Dr. Renick is happy to welcome patients from Sunbury as well as the surrounding areas, including Westerville, Galena and Johnstown, Ohio. We look forward to meeting you soon!