Orthodontics

Treatment for All Ages

ORTHODONTICS

Orthodontic Treatment for All Ages

How Orthodontic Treatment Works

Orthodontic appliances can be made of metal, ceramic, or plastic. They may be removable or they may be brackets bonded to the teeth. By placing a constant, gentle force in a carefully controlled direction, braces slowly move teeth to a corrected position. This is a great time to wear braces!

Comfort and Customization

Gone are the days when a metal band with a bracket was placed around each tooth. You can choose brackets that are clear or metallic color. You can choose the color of the ties that hold the wire in brackets. Wires are also less noticeable than they used to be and the latest materials move teeth faster with less discomfort to patients.

Digital Impressions

Digital impressions represent cutting-edge technology that allows dentists to create precise virtual, computer-generated replica of the hard and soft tissues in the mouth using a scanning camera, without the need for traditional impression materials. Our patients love that they don’t have to experience a mouth full of goo anymore while getting fitted for new restorations for their teeth, night guards, or any other orthodontic appliances. Come and see for yourself.

This alternative to braces uses clear, flexible plastic aligners that fit over your teeth and are practically invisible. They are removable when you need to eat, brush, or floss, and every so often you exchange the aligner for a slightly different size. Over time, your teeth are slowly straightened, just without the metal.

Learn more at invisalign.com

Frequently Asked Questions

Are braces painful?

Braces are generally not painful. After certain visits, teeth may be sore for a few days. However, after most visits, patients do not feel any soreness at all! If you do experience soreness, over-the-counter pain medications such as Advil or Tylenol will ease the discomfort.

Do I need to see my family dentist during orthodontic treatment?

Yes, please continue to visit your regular family dentist as recommended by their office, which is usually every 6 months.

At what age should orthodontic treatment occur?

Orthodontic treatment can be started at any age. Many pediatric orthodontic problems are easier to correct if detected at an early age. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child first visit an orthodontist by age seven or earlier if a problem is detected by parents, the family dentist, or the child’s physician.

Do I have any other options besides traditional braces?

Yes, we offer clear braces as well as removable options such as Invisalign®. Everyone’s mouth is different, so during your initial consultation we will discuss what options are right for you.

How much do braces cost?

Costs vary by patient, so it is impossible to give an exact cost for treatment until we have examined you. We will cover exact costs and financial options during the initial consultation. We have many financing options available to accommodate your needs, and we will review these with you. We will also review your insurance policy and help to maximize your benefit, plus bill any PPO insurance on your behalf.

How long will it take to complete orthodontic treatment?

Treatment time depends on each patient’s individual orthodontic needs. In general, treatment times range from 12-30 months. The “average” time frame a person wears braces is approximately 18-24 months.

I'm already an adult. Is it too late for braces?

A surprising percentage of our patients are adults. In fact, 25 percent of all orthodontic patients are adults. Health, happiness and self-esteem are vitally important to adults. No patient is “too old” to wear braces!

I have crowns or missing teeth. Can I still wear braces?

Yes, braces help to move your teeth where they need to be, and they will move a tooth with a crown just as easily as a regular tooth. Even if you have missing teeth, it may be very helpful for your mouth and overall dental health to straighten your remaining teeth.

Schedule Your Complimentary Orthodontic Consultation

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