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Determining if treatment is necessary can be difficult because there are many problems that can be present. It is often deceiving when the front teeth appear to be straight. Some signs that treatment is needed may included the presence of crooked, overlapped or excessively spaced teeth. Protrusion of the upper or lower jaw, improper alignment of the top and bottom front teeth and shifting of the jaw when biting are also significant indicators that orthodontic treatment is needed. Your general dentist will also help you to discern if orthodontic treatment is necessary.
It is recommended by the American Association of Orthodontics that a child receive an orthodontic evaluation no later than the age of 7. Early evaluation will allow for early detection and corrective action to be taken.
Age is not a factor when it comes to orthodontic treatment. We treat a number of adult patients who desire a straight and healthy smile. We offer small or clear braces that discreetly straighten the teeth within 18-24 months.
The length of orthodontic treatment depends on the age of the patient and the oral problems that are present. Duration is also highly linked to the patient’s cooperation and personal care of their appliances. Depending on these various factors, orthodontic treatment can extend between 6 and 30 months.
It is not required that you be directly referred to our office by your dentist. Many of our new patients are referred to our office by our current patients and parents. We would be more than happy to schedule an initial visit for you to our office and if you currently do not have a general dentist we will gladly recommend one for you.
Braces tend to make your teeth sore when they are initially placed and after adjustments to existing braces are made. The soreness may last for a few hours or a couple of days but is not painful. An over-the-counter pain reliever can help to alleviate discomfort.
The removal of teeth depends on the extent of the patient’s oral problems. Dr. Linaker will indicate whether extractions are necessary however the final decision is always that of the patients. If the patient decides not to have teeth removed, he or she must understand that the ideal orthodontic results may not be achieved. An oral surgeon usually recommended by Dr. Linaker performs the extractions.
Orthodontic treatment tends to be less expensive when implemented at the proper time. Early detection and treatment will help to prevent more extensive problems from occurring in the future that will require more difficult and expensive treatment. Also, many insurance plans now include orthodontic treatment.
We pride ourselves in maintaining thorough disinfection and sterilization of all orthodontic instruments and equipment. Orthodontic appliances are never recycled and reused on multiple patients. We regularly disinfect operatory chairs, mirrors, protective eyewear, sinks and countertops. Gloves, protective masks and appropriate clean uniforms are always worn when working on patients. A clean environment is a happy, healthy and efficient environment.
Yes! You should continue to schedule regular cleaning visits every three or six months with your dental hygienist. We will gladly coordinate with your visit to the hygienist to remove your wires beforehand and to replace them when your appointment is completed. Your dental hygienist will greatly appreciate this.
It is important to understand that your teeth, gums, and bone are living tissue that is subject to make changes overtime. To help minimize tooth movement after your braces are removed each patient is given removable upper and lower retainers. Retainers must be worn exactly as instructed and continued use is required.
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