What is Orthodontics?
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When describing orthodontics, most people just
refer to braces. While the
majority of orthodontic cases involve braces,
there are alternatives that may be used for younger
children or adults. Arch expanders
for younger children can minimize or eliminate
the need for braces when the problem is treated
early enough. Invisible, clear
plastic retainers, instead of braces, can
be used by adults for mild to moderate crowding
problems.
What are the Benefits of Orthodontics?
- Reduce the risk of injury - prominent teeth
are more prone to trauma
- Reduce the risk of decay
- crooked teeth are harder to clean
- Reduce the risk of developing TMJ
problems
- Eliminate the excessive
wear on your teeth that can be caused by
a poorly aligned bite
- Straight teeth provide a healthier, more attractive
smile
- A beautiful smile increases your confidence
and self-esteem
What is an Orthodontic Evaluation?
Orthodontic treatment with braces begins with
an evaluation appointment. Dr. Pierson or Dr. Windle or Dr. Begnoche
will first visually determine if you are a good
candidate for orthodontic treatment, or if another
treatment would be more appropriate. If you are
a good candidate for orthodontic treatment, Dr. Pierson or Dr. Windle or Dr. Begnoche
will take impressions of your teeth, special x-rays
of your jaw joint, head and teeth, and very important
measurements of your teeth and mouth.
 Next
is a consulting appointment to discuss the treatment
plan. The treatment plan is based on the records
taken at the evaluation. The consult includes:
- Specific treatment recommendation
- Expected length of treatment
- Expected cost of treatment
When should My Child be Evaluated?
If your child develops an "open
bite", or you are otherwise concerned
about the development of your child's teeth, no
matter what the age, contact us right away for
a consultation with Dr. Pierson or Dr. Windle or Dr. Begnoche.
Otherwise, children should be evaluated by the
age of 6 for orthodontic treatment. In the past,
a child was 11 or 12 before brackets were actually
placed on the teeth to straighten them. This may
still hold true in most cases, but there are new
techniques that can correct problems early, while
a child is still growing. This may eliminate the
need for braces in the future, or if the child
does still need braces, the treatment will be
less complicated, usually shortening the period
of time in braces.
What is an Arch Expander?
 An
Arch Expander is one example of orthodontic
treatment available for younger patients. Many
times an arch expander can be used to create a
proper alignment of the arches so permanent teeth
have room to erupt in a natural position. The
use of an arch expander will generally minimize
or eliminate the need for braces when the patient
gets older.
What are Braces?
Braces are retainers, bonded brackets,
arch wires and elastic bands that move crowded
or spaced teeth into a "normal" position for appearance,
prevention and function. Patients with poorly
aligned teeth tend to have much more tooth decay,
gum disease and jaw joint problems. Recently invented
brackets and new techniques make orthodontic treatment
faster and more comfortable than ever.
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metal brackets
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white brackets
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colored bands
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How do Braces work?
Over a period of time, teeth will shift if constant,
gentle pressure is applied. Brackets are bonded
to the front surface of each tooth and wires are
attached to the brackets with elastic bands. The
slight tension on the wire is gently transferred
to the bracket through the elastic band.
Are Braces Only for Kids?
Adults are finding that having braces isn't
kid stuff anymore. Many adults are turning to
braces to correct problems with their bite. They
recognize the benefits of reduced wear,
reduced incidence of TMJ problems,
and increased self-esteem. Major adjustments must
be done with braces, but some adjustments can
actually be done without braces!
The Latest Trend in Orthodontics is No Braces
at All!
Adult "invisible braces" (which are
not really braces at all, but clear plastic retainers)
are a new technique for adults to obtain the results
of braces without wearing braces! This technique,
which is effective only for mild to moderate crowding,
utilizes a series of retainers (computer generated
or lab constructed) that are worn sequentially
until the desired correction is achieved.
  She's
wearing "invisible braces" in one of
these two photos. Can you tell which one? It's
difficult to tell, isn't it? That's the whole
point!
Please Contact Us if
you would like more information sent to you.
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