Click on a topic of interest for more information.

Children and Adolescents
Adults
How Orthodontic treatment works
First Visit
Diagnostic Records
Financial Information
Appliance Placement
Life with Braces
Care of your teeth

Your dentist may have discussed with you the many benefits of having healthy teeth, a good bite and proper jaw alignment. Crowded teeth are harder to keep clean, often resulting in tooth decay, gum disease and tooth loss. Bite problems can contribute to abnormal wear of tooth surfaces, inefficient chewing function, compromised digestion, chronic headaches, and excessive stress on gum and bone tissue that supports teeth. Treatment by an orthodontist can improve your quality of life and spare you inconvenience and expense of future dental problems. For most people, a beautiful smile is the most obvious benefit of orthodontics. With optimal dental health and an attractive smile you’ll feel more comfortable and confident.



CHILDREN and ADOLESCENTS

The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that orthodontists see children by age seven or eight to advise if orthodontic treatment is required, and when the treatment may be most effective. The first permanent molars and incisors usually erupt by that time and cross bites, crowding, overbites and other problems can be evaluated.

When treatment is begun early, the orthodontist can evaluate the growth of the jaw and guide newly erupted teeth. Early treatment can also regulate the width of the upper and lower dental arches, gain space for permanent teeth, avoid the need for permanent tooth extractions, reduce likelihood of impacted permanent teeth, correct digit habits, and eliminate abnormal swallowing or speech problems. Early treatment can often simplify future necessary treatment.
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ADULTS

Orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age, and adults especially appreciate the benefits of a beautiful smile and a good bite. Approximately one in every five patients in orthodontic treatment is over 21. Adults may have experienced loss of teeth and may require periodontal treatment before, during, and after orthodontic treatment. Occasionally, surgery is suggested to correct significant jaw growth related problems.



HOW ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT WORKS

Orthodontic appliances can be made of metal, ceramic, or plastic. They may be brackets attached to your teeth, or they may be removable. By placing a constant, gentle force in a carefully controlled environment, teeth slowly move to their corrected position.

Because of advanced technology, this is an exciting time to wear braces. You can choose brackets that are clear or metallic. Some braces allow you to choose colored elastics to hold wires in place. Braces are also less noticeable than ever, and the latest materials move teeth more efficiently, with fewer visits, and with greater patient comfort.
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FIRST VISIT

Once you’ve contacted our office by phone, you will be scheduled for a complimentary examination. We are eager to meet you and make your visit comfortable and informative. Upon your arrival, you will be greeted by our scheduling and treatment coordinators. Once you’ve been examined by the doctor, you will be given information regarding the nature of your orthodontic condition and if appropriate, specific treatment recommendations including:

              ● treatment benefits
              ● fee
              ● anticipated length of treatment

You may be advised to return at a later date for continued observation or be scheduled for diagnostic records.


DIAGNOSTIC RECORDS

In order to accurately diagnose and customize your orthodontic treatment, we would typically take:

              ● digital photographs
              ● x-rays
              ● impressions (molds) of your teeth

You may then be advised to consult with your dentist, another specialist, or make an orthodontic appointment with us to initiate treatment.
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FINANCIAL INFORMATION

The cost of treatment depends on the extent of the patient’s problem. We will discuss fees and payment options with you before any treatment begins. We accept assignment from many insurance companies and will gladly assist you in filing your claim. For your convenience, we accept automatic payments, checks, cash, debit, Visa, and MasterCard.



APPLIANCE PLACEMENT

Depending on your treatment, it typically requires one to two hours to place braces on your teeth to begin orthodontic correction. Most patients are usually reappointed at six to eight week intervals for 30 minutes appointments. This varies depending on your needs.
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LIFE WITH BRACES

Once braces are placed, you may experience a brief period of adjustment. Wax placed on braces will help you avoid irritation; chewing gum, warm salt water rinses, and over the counter medications after your appointment can alleviate minor discomfort. Avoid sugary, chewy, and hard objects to protect your braces and teeth. Once your teeth begin to straighten they may feel loose. Do not worry as this is necessary and normal when moving teeth.



CARE OF YOUR TEETH

It is more important than ever to brush and floss regularly when you have braces. We will show you how to best do this. Poor oral hygiene, cavities, and swollen gums can cause delays with your orthodontic treatment. Maintain regular appointments (at least every six months) with your dentist and hygienist while in braces. This is a team effort and we need everyone’s help, including yours, to succeed.
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