Dr Paul Mandla Nkosi

Teeth can slowly be moved and shifted into proper position by applying pressure in certain directions. Bands, wires and elastics, are placed on the teeth to move them in the right direction. This takes place slowly and carefully over an extended period of time. This process can take months or years. It is important to continue to wear the braces or appliance for however long your orthodontist recommends for successful treatment. If you quit at any point during treatment, the teeth can shift back into their old position earlier than they would if you wore the braces for the whole prescribed period.

You will have a better appearance of teeth, smile and face and improved self-esteem, confidence and feeling of acceptance. Your teeth will also be easier to clean teeth

Not really necessary, but braces can improve how your teeth look.

Orthodontics is a specialty of dentistry that is concerned with the study and treatment of malocclusions, which may be a result of tooth irregularity, disproportionate jaw relationships, or both. The word comes from the Greek words ortho meaning straight and odons meaning tooth.

Your orthodontist will decide if you need braces and when you should start wearing them. While it is common during childhood and adolescence, an increasing number of adults today are also opting for braces. As well as braces improving how your teeth look they also improve your ability to clean them effectively. This will result in reducing the risk of uneven wear of the tooth surfaces and reducing the number of hard to-reach places where plaque can accumulate easily. So, while you're wearing braces, remember that the success of this treatment is affected by how well you take care of your teeth and gums.

Maintaining good oral hygiene is one of the most important things you can do to keep your mouth healthy. Braces collect food and dental plaque very easily. If proper hygiene is neglected during treatment with braces you are at a higher risk of developing tooth decay and gum disease can easily occur. So the key to healthy teeth and gums is proper plaque removal every day. Toothpaste can aid the removal of dental plaque and food from the teeth, help reduce bad breath and has ingredients that help prevent tooth and gum disease.

Yes, you will have to give up extremely hard and sticky foods including gum.

Not really, arrangements can be made with your orthodontist to pay over a certain period of time so that you pay less.

You don't need a referral but regular visits to your family dentist are important and you will need a dentist to treat other dental problems before you see the orthodontist.

No, there are no age limits! Orthodontic treatment goes slower when you are older, and it feels different.

Most adults get orthodontic treatment because they realize that taking care of your smile is part of taking care of yourself.

Treatment time varies depending on the complexity of treatment. And a period of retainer wear will follow removal of your braces

Adjustment of your braces approximately every 4-12 weeks

Generally not but you may have mild tooth soreness during the first week in braces and after adjustment office visits.

Yes but a mouth-guard must be worn.

To find an orthodontist located geographically close to your home, school or employer, consult your local directory book or visit the South African Society of Orthodontists website (www.saso.co.za) or http://www.medpages.co.za or http://www.askthedoctoronline. co.za.

Some medical aids do pay for braces but you call your medical aid to find out whether they will pay for your treatment.