Orthodontics

Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry specializing in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. Not only can your orthodontist help you have a healthy, straight and beautiful smile, orthodontic treatment is an investment in your overall health and self confidence.

Most malocclusions (teeth that don’t fit together properly) are inherited, though some may be caused by thumb sucking, teeth grinding and spacing that occurs due to the early loss of a baby teeth or adult tooth extraction. Problems that go untreated can result in broken teeth, chewing and digestion difficulties, TMJ disorders, headache, neck pain, speech impairments, abnormal wear of tooth surfaces, tooth decay, gum disease and tooth loss.

Reasons for Orthodontic Treatment:

Breathing or swallowing issues

Cross bite – the top teeth bite inside the lower teeth

Crowding – extra teeth or improperly positioned teeth

Deep Overbite – the lower front teeth bite into the tissue along the top teeth

Underbite – lower jaw protrusion

Overjet – protruding upper teeth

Disfigured mouth/jaw

Jaw and jaw joint pain

Missing or extra teeth

Spacing between teeth

Speech, chewing or biting problems

Self-image - improved appearance of the smile

Our Partners

Children

Because children’s teeth are fairly pliable and the bone is relatively soft and continually growing and changing, it is easy to guide and correct the bone growth in children. That’s why treatment should ideally begin during the child’s growth-spurt years, before potential skeletal problems can become firmly established. Individualized orthodontic treatment plans are designed to guide and enhance the child’s natural growth and ensure proper alignment and jaw development.

Adults

Improving the health of your teeth and gums is always important – in all stages of life. Orthodontic treatment at later stages in life can not only help to improve your overall health, it can enhance your personal appearance and self-esteem. It’s never too late to have that straight, beautiful smile you’ve always wanted.

Planning Phase

Your orthodontist will review your medical and dental history and take X-rays, photos and impressions of your teeth. Then we’ll discuss malocclusions and how we can improve appearance of your smile. An individualized treatment plan and estimate of treatment time will be determined.

The planning phase includes:
- Medical and dental history and evaluation
- Discussion of how to improve your smile
- Castings or impressions of your teeth
- Computer generated photo of the head and neck
- Photographs of your face and mouth
- X-rays of the teeth and jaws

Types of Braces

Metal Braces

This is the most common type and, today, metal braces are more comfortable than ever before. Made from high-grade stainless steel, metal braces are attached to the teeth and archwires are attached to the braces. The braces and wires are positioned in a manner that will pull the teeth into proper alignment. Some patients even opt for colored brackets to create a more unique and fun look.
Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces are made from a material that is less visible than metal braces. For this reason, older teenagers and adults who are concerned about the appearance of braces usually select ceramic braces. Ceramic braces do require more attention and care because they are larger and made from a more brittle material than metal braces so they are often used only on the upper front teeth.
Invisalign

Invisalign is an effective and esthetically pleasing alternative to ceramic and metal braces. No one can tell you are wearing them! This proven technology can create the smile you’ve always wanted without having to deal with the discomfort and appearance of traditional braces. A series of Invisalign aligners are custom-made made from virtually invisible material. These removable aligners have no metal so they are comfortable to wear and will not cause mouth abrasions. Additionally, you can remove Invisalign to eat, drink, brush and floss.

Treatment Phase

After careful evaluation, your orthodontist will determine the type of treatment required to achieve the desired result. Using the latest advancements on orthodontics, your doctor will create an individualized treatment plan using braces and appliances to correct malocclusions and provide ongoing assessment, adjustment and cleaning.

Cleaning is important during treatment because the brackets, archwire and the elastics on braces can cause food to easily become trapped and plaque buildup increases. Maintaining optimal oral hygiene is essential in order to avoid tooth decay and gum disease.

Retention Phase

When treatment is completed, your braces or appliances are removed and you will be given a new appliance such as a removable retainer or fixed retainer. Retainers will help to maintain the corrections that were made during treatment and are used consistently until your teeth and bone are firmly established in their new positions. Retainers are usually worn at night after used daily for a period recommended by our doctors. The length of time that a retainer will be used will be determined by your orthodontist.

The duration of treatment and retention phases will vary with each patient.