 What
is Orthodontics?
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
and adults can minimize or eliminate the need for braces.
Invisible, clear plastic retainers,
instead of braces, can be used 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 deep 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. Stovie
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. Stovie
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
- Financing options
When should My Child be Evaluated?
The American Orthodontic Society has suggetsed that all children
should be evaluated orthodontically by the age of 7. 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.
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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!
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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.
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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! |
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Visit
the Invisalign® web site and
learn more!
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