Treatment

When is the best time to begin orthodontics?

Though an orthodontist can enhance a smile at any age, there is an optimal time period to begin treatment. Beginning treatment at this time ensures the greatest result and the least amount of time and expense. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that the initial orthodontic evaluation should occur at the first sign of orthodontic problems or no later than age 7. At this early age, orthodontic treatment may not be necessary, but vigilant examination can anticipate the most advantageous time to begin treatment.

What are the benefits of early orthodontic evaluation?

Early evaluation provides both timely detection of problems and greater opportunity for more effective treatment. Prudent intervention guides growth and development, preventing serious problems later. When orthodontic intervention is not necessary, an orthodontist can carefully monitor growth and development and begin treatment when it is ideal.

Why is age 7 considered the optimal time for screening?

By the age of 7, the first adult molars erupt, establishing the back bite. During this time, an orthodontist can evaluate front-to-back and side-to-side tooth relationships. For example, the presence of erupting incisors can indicate possible overbite, open bite, crowding or gummy smiles. Timely screening increases the chances for an incredible smile.

What are the advantages of interceptive treatment?

Some of the most direct results of interceptive treatment are:

• Creating room for crowded, erupting teeth
• Creating facial symmetry by influencing jaw growth
• Reducing the risk of trauma to protruding front teeth
• Preserving space for unerupted teeth
• Reducing the need for tooth removal
• Reducing treatment time with braces

Are you a candidate for orthodontic treatment?

Orthodontics is not merely for improving the aesthetics of the smile; orthodontic treatment improves bad bites (malocclusions). Malocclusions occur as a result of tooth or jaw misalignment. Malocclusions affect the way you smile, chew, clean your teeth or feel about your smile.

Why should malocclusions be treated?

According to studies by the American Association of Orthodontists, untreated malocclusions can result in a variety of problems:

• Crowded teeth are more difficult to properly brush and floss, which may contribute to tooth decay and/or gum disease.
• Protruding teeth are more susceptible to accidental chipping.
• Crossbites can result in unfavorable growth and uneven tooth wear.
• Openbites can result in tongue-thrusting habits and speech impediments.

Ultimately, orthodontics does more than make a pretty smile – it creates a healthier you!

Oral Hygiene

• Brushing should be done at least 2-3 times per day
• It should take no less than 3 minutes each time you brush, but it might take more because it is harder to clean around and under each and every bracket
• Be sure to brush the chewing surfaces of your teeth, as well as the inside of your teeth

Flossing

• Flossing should be done 1 time per day
• When flossing be sure to floss around each individual tooth at least 3-4 times, with an up and down motion, not back and forth
• We also recommend threading the floss AWAY from the tissue, not towards the tissue

Oral Hygiene

Proxy Brush

• Use of the proxy brush should be done before brushing
• It should be used between all teeth underneath the arch wire and around all brackets and bands
• We recommend using the proxy brush AWAY from the tissue, not towards as the end can be sharp to the gum tissue
• You should rinse the proxy brush if plaque starts to accumulate on during use
• Proxy brushes are one time use only

Foods to Avoid-Loose Bracket

• Loose brackets do not need immediate attention, it can go 1-2 weeks without being a setback to treatment
• If loose brackets are bothering you, be sure to use wax for comfort

Wax Replacement

Now that your braces are off, you need to keep your teeth from moving. This process involves thewearing of removable retainers. In most cases we will bond (glue) a lingual wire behind the lower front six teeth and occasionally behind the upper front four teeth.

You will also receive a clear removable retainer for the upper and lower teeth. You will wear it as instructed. Retainers are a lifetime commitment, to be worn nightly, indefinitely!

Lexan Retainer

Hawley Retainer

 

Care of your Retainers is very vital to ensure long lasting retainers. Make sure you brush and floss around your bonded retainers. The adhesive (glue) on your bonded wire can come loose, especially if you bite directly into hard foods. It does need to be fixed in a timely manner to ensure your teeth not move.

When brushing your removable retainer you are to only use cold water and hand soap. Do not use toothpaste as it is abrasive and will scratch and make the retainer cloudy. Always keep your retainer in the case when you are not wearing it; pets, especially dogs, will eat it. Please be very careful with the care of your retainers, as they are an important aspect to orthodontic treatment.

Like other personal items, retainers may also wear over time. Replacing a worn retainer is a wise investment in caring for your smile!

Take-Home Whitening Kit

With our take-home whitening kit, you can get the smile of your dreams without the office visits! Whiten at your own pace, in the comfort of your own home, reaching the look you’ve been waiting for!