Dentists use teeth numbering charts to talk to patients about how they should brush their teeth, but they can be confusing. They’re not always the same, and you may need to refer to more than one chart if you have multiple dental procedures done at the same time. What makes matters worse is that each dentist has his or her own way of referring to specific teeth on a chart, so using one chart at one dentist’s office and another chart at another dentist’s office can lead to confusion over which tooth you’re being asked about.
What are teeth numbering charts?
Understanding how teeth numbering charts work is an important part of having a healthy, strong, beautiful smile. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends seeing a dentist every six months and a trained orthodontist at least once per year. These experts will examine your teeth and help determine if you need any special treatment or braces. It’s always good to know what they’re talking about when they discuss your number-coded smile! In general, there are three types of teeth numbering charts that provide information on individual teeth, sections of multiple teeth or rows of multiple teeth. Here’s what each one represents: Individual tooth charts show which number corresponds with which tooth, depending on its position within both rows and columns.
When should you use them?
Orthodontists often use teeth numbering charts when placing braces. Braces are so much more comfortable than they used to be—but that’s also made them tougher for patients and doctors alike.
How can you customize them?
If you’re getting braces color, it can seem overwhelming. But it shouldn’t be! When you visit your orthodontist for a consultation, there are a number of questions that will help you get ready for your next appointment. Here are a few good ones: What kind of treatment am I receiving? How long will treatment take? When do I return? Does my insurance cover any of it? You may even want to ask what happens if treatment takes longer than expected.
There’s no doubt, braces are worth it; they change lives by straightening teeth and improving overall health and confidence! But not all braces are created equal. And finding an orthodontist who is right for you is just as important as finding one who performs quality work. It’s best to find an orthodontist who has experience with both traditional metal braces and clear aligners. This way, he or she can recommend which option would work best for your specific needs. Once you find a best orthodontics near me, make sure to schedule a consultation so he or she can explain how treatment works and answer any questions you have about how much it costs or how long it will take. Best of luck on your journey toward straighter teeth!
Are there any alternatives?
Looking at a teeth chart can be confusing, especially if you’re new to orthodontics. The first thing you should do is ask your dentist if there are any alternatives, such as a computer program or brochure. Many dentists use these tools for their patients because they’re more appealing and easier to understand than a traditional chart. If there aren’t any tools available at your practice, you should still feel comfortable asking questions about what’s being done to improve them (if anything).
In some cases, your best bet might be finding another orthodontist that does offer something better. If I don’t have an adult bite yet, how will I know where my permanent teeth will go?: Once you have braces on your teeth, it’s easy to see where each tooth belongs in your adult bite. There may also be markings on your archwire—the wire connecting all of your brackets—that indicate where each tooth should end up when everything is said and done. But if you don’t have an adult bite yet, it may seem impossible to know exactly where each tooth belongs.
