Orthodontic Treatment

Philosophy

Having a beautiful and healthy smile is something we all value. Modern Orthodontics can play a large role to achieve that goal.

Knowledge is paramount. The more we can help you understand the nature of the problem and the options available, the better you can decide the path forward to match your goals, desires and objectives.

Once in treatment, we firmly believe in encouraging a sense of responsibility in our patients. Besides producing better results and a lifetime of dental health, it inspires confidence in proceeding through treatment. The sense of pride and the increase in self-esteem from the results can be priceless.

We strive to do our best in providing the most pleasant and rewarding experience possible.

We have a very open, friendly and informal environment. As our average staff member has worked here for 10-20 years, most of our patients enjoy becoming “friends” with our staff, often choosing a favorite to work with. Parents are always welcome in the treatment area and most end up becoming part of our ‘family’ as well.

We all feel very blessed to be able to help make so many “beautiful smiles”.

Timing of treatment

A common question is what age is the best age for orthodontic treatment? The answers one gets can be varied and somewhat controversial.

Our main philosophy is to get the maximum benefit in the shortest amount of time at the least possible cost.

Basically, there are two main issues, the alignment of the teeth and the alignment of the jaws. To align all the teeth, they all must be erupted by the completion of the treatment. If there is a jaw alignment issue, the physical growth can become important as well.

Growth patterns vary with each person. In addition, dental development does not necessarily parallel physical growth.

The American Association of Orthodontics recommends the first orthodontic evaluation at age 7. The vast majority of children need no treatment at this age. However, this is generally a good time to evaluate. This allows us to determine any potential issues and advise on long term planning to maximize the efficiency of any treatment.

In general, we are not in favor of excessive “early treatment” (a “phase one” orthodontic treatment done before all the permanent teeth have erupted). Most early treatment cases require full treatment later.

In some situations, however, judicious use of some relatively simple appliances are very important to correct problems that are causing an immediate issue. Examples are crossbites, habits, severe protrusions, and unusual eruption problems. Many times, simply extracting some primary (baby) teeth can take care of the immediate issue and avoid early treatment.

Other factors to consider are the individual concerns of child and/or the parents, i.e., possible self esteem issues, concerns about potential damage from trauma, etc. Another very important factor is whether a move from the area is planned. In general, it is always preferable to begin and finish with one orthodontist. However, depending on the situation, it can be important to begin treatment even if a move is planned.

As an orthodontist and a pediatric dentist, I have experience seeing children from infants to adolescents and feel it is a major advantage in providing an overview of long term planning.

Only with an early evaluation can we assess all these factors and give you the best advice for your particular situation.

Getting Started

Evaluation Appointment

This initial appointment is to assess your concerns, your child’s orthodontic issues and their state of dental and physical development. We can then decide whether it is best to proceed and obtain orthodontic records (or schedule them) or to continue to monitor growth and development.

Orthodontic Records

This normally consists of a profile head X-ray (Cephalometric), a full mouth X-ray (Panoramic), impressions of the teeth for study models and photographs (intraoral and facial). Normally takes about about 45 minutes.

Consultation

At this appointment we will sit down and review your child’s records on the computer, discuss your concerns, the nature of the problems and the options available to consider. I firmly believe, the more you know at this stage, the better decisions you will make for the best results. In addition, this is when we explain to the patients what their responsibilities are, what to expect and try to answer all questions and concerns.

For Our Patients

Sometimes things just break to no fault of anyone. Obviously, however, the less breakage, the better and the quicker the treatment will proceed.

What to expect after braces are placed

Placing the bracing is very simple. For the first day or days, there is normally some discomfort (varies amongst individuals). Although not usually necessary, any over the counter pain medication can be taken, if needed. After this period, they should be relatively pain free.

The “adhesive” normally takes a day to set up completely, so softer foods are generally better the first day or so.

Sometimes things just break through no fault of anyone. Obviously, however, the less breakage, the better and the quicker the treatment will proceed.

Fixed Appliances

If a fixed appliance has been placed, it will generally take from a few days up to a week to become comfortable. Some initial discomfort is normal. Eating, swallowing and talking may be more difficult at first. After this short initial phase, normal function returns quickly, with minimal complaints.

Broken Appliances

Should anything break, such as a bracket, archwire or appliance, the major concern is your child’s comfort. Normally, it is not an emergency and can wait for your next appointment. If you have to bend or cut a wire to temporarily relieve the problem, don’t worry, we can easily make the repairs when you come in.

Of course, if you have any questions, please call. If we need to see your child sooner, we will get them in as soon as possible.

Retainers

Following treatment, retainers are necessary to maintain the alignment. The only way to insure this is to use them indefinitely, for as we all age, our bodies never stop changing and that includes the dentition.

There are two basic types of retainers – fixed and removable. We usually use fixed retainers in the lower arch and sometimes in the upper as well (though this is not always possible on the upper teeth).

Fixed retainers are not seen from the front and are tolerated well by most and easy to clean. They have the advantage of not needing cooperation and holding the teeth in position long term.

Removable retainers are most commonly worn 24/7 for one month and then only when sleeping. If that doesn’t work, other arrangements can be made.

We like to check the retainers every 6 months or so to make sure everything is still looking good. Of course, if there ever is a problem, we want to take care of it as soon as possible, so just call for an appointment.