Why Orthodontics?

Benefits of Orthodontics

The goals and benefits of orthodontic treatment are the achievement of function, balance, and harmony between the teeth and face for a lifetime of beautiful and healthy smiles. An attractive smile can enhance a person’s self-esteem and self-confidence, thereby enhancing one’s quality of life at any age.

Never Too Late to Have a Beautiful Smile

No matter what your age, your appearance is an important aspect of your life. If you are unhappy with your smile or have crooked teeth, it is never too late to begin orthodontic treatment. In fact, almost 25 percent of our patients are adults. In addition to enhancing their smiles, many adults seek orthodontic treatment to improve the function of their bite. Orthodontic treatment can provide you with a more attractive smile and can also improve your oral health. People of all ages begin orthodontic treatment for healthier teeth and gums, as well as to receive the full benefit of teeth that are in proper alignment. Adult orthodontics can vastly change your appearance, whether the problem is an uneven profile, crowded teeth or a poor self-image.

Attractive Options

Several options are available to patients concerned about the appearance of braces. For all of our patients, we offer mini stainless steel braces and clear braces. We are also pleased to offer the new Invisalign System.

Why Should you get an Early Start?

Although there is not a universal best age to start orthodontic treatment, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children should first visit an orthodontist by age 7. Early examination allows the orthodontist to detect and evaluate problems so the appropriate time for treatment can be determined. There are times that preventive or interceptive care can guide the jaws and erupting teeth into more favorable positions, improve the growth and alignment of jaws, and preserve space for the permanent teeth. Warning signs of orthodontic problems that can be detected from a child’s bite include:

• The upper teeth protrude
• The upper teeth cover too much of the lower teeth
• The upper teeth fit behind the lower teeth
• The front teeth do not meet when the back teeth are together
• The teeth are crowded or overlapped
• There are noticeably large gaps between teeth
• The line between the two upper front teeth and the two lower front teeth do not line up properly

After we gather important information-which may include a comprehensive clinical exam, models, x-rays, and facial photographs-we can best determine your orthodontic needs and treatment plan. For young patients, early interceptive orthodontic therapy can minimize the need for more complex orthodontic treatment in the future.

Working with your Dentist

By working closely with your dentist, we can help you achieve your ideal smile. We are in close communication with your dentist throughout your treatment in our office. While you are receiving orthodontic treatment , you should continue to see your dentist every six months to have routine follow-up care. It is so important for patients to be seen regularly during orthodontic care.