Orthodontics

Orthodontics means more than a beautiful smile and a healthy smile too. Also known as dentofacial orthopedics, orthodontics is the dental specialty concerned with correctly positioned teeth, jaw bones, jaw joints and chewing muscles. Now people of all ages can enjoy healthier teeth and gums and a better bite for normal chewing, swallowing and breathing. With today's evaluation and treatment techniques, a healthy smile can be yours.

Orthodontics for Young Children

An early phase of treatment may precede braces to take advantage of a child's growing jaws. Early treatment moves jaw bones and chewing muscles into position, setting the stage for the most stable bite correction possible. This early orthopedic phase of treatment may last a year or more.

• A palatal expander gently widens a too-small upper jaw to make room for crowded teeth.
• A habit corrector helps stop thumb-sucking, tongue-thrusting (a swallowing habit) or mouth breathing.
• A functional appliance guides growing jaws into position and teaches chewing muscles to "bite right".
• Braces move a child's permanent teeth into position.
• Headgear helps realign jaws or move teeth into line.
• A retainer helps stabilize teeth in their new positions.

Before planning treatment, your orthodontist examines your teeth, jaws, jaw joints, face and profile and studies how you bite and swallow. Your dental and medical histories are taken. If you are looking for cosmetic changes in your smile or face, you'll be asked about your specific goals for orthodontics.

Orthodontics for Teenagers

The most common age group for orthodontics, teenagers have most of their permanent teeth and more mature jaws. Today's braces are less noticeable than ever and won't interfere with the active lifestyles that teenagers enjoy. Treatment may last one to three years and include a combination of appliances.

• Braces either tiny bonded brackets or full bands, gently move teeth in position.
• Headgear helps realign jaws or move teeth into line.
• A retainer holds teeth in their corrected positions until they are stabilized.
• A functional appliance or palatal expander may be used on teenagers whose jaws are still growing.
• Extractions (removing teeth) make room for crowded teeth and may be needed for any phase of treatment.

Orthodontics for Adults

More and more adults are seeking orthodontic treatment, eager for a more attractive face and smile, healthier gums and freedom from jaw joint pain. Today's appliances include less visible braces, so orthodontics can fit into any adult lifestyle. With fully mature adult jaws, treatment may take longer than for teenagers.

• Braces options include bonded brackets and full bands, "invisible" lingual braces (which fit inside of teeth), clear or tooth colored braces and removable braces.
• A Splint can help treat TNJ Syndrome (sore jaw joints).
• Headgear moves protruding teeth into position.
• A retainer helps stabilize teeth in their new positions.
• Surgery may be recommended for severe bite problems to achieve a stable bite and more dramatic cosmetic result.
• Extractions (removing teeth) make room for crowded teeth and may be needed for any phase of treatment.

Length of Your Treatment

The length of your treatment depends on your bite problem, age, response to treatment and co-operation with wearing your appliances as advised. The cost of your treatment may be based on how long you need to wear your appliances. Dental insurance may help cover the cost of your orthodontics.