Category: Blog

Appliance
Anything the orthodontist attaches to your teeth to move your teeth or to change the shape of your jaw

Arch Wire
A metal wire which is attached to your brackets to move your teeth

Band
A metal ring which is placed on your teeth to anchor parts of your braces

Bracket
A metal or ceramic part that is glued onto a tooth and serves as a means of fastening the arch wire

Breakaway
A breakaway is a small plastic piece with an internal spring which is used to provide force on a facebow

Buccal tube
A small metal part that is welded on the outside of a molar bank. The buccal tube contains slots to hold archwires, lip bumpers, facebows and other things your orthodontist uses to move your teeth

Chain, Orthodontic Chain
A stretchable plastic chain used to hold archwires into brackets and to move teeth.

Facebow, Headgear
Facebows are wire apparatuses used to move your upper molars back in your mouth which creates room for crowded or protrusive anterior teeth. Generally, the facebow consists of two metal parts that have been attached together. The inner part is shaped like a horseshoe. This part goes in your mouth and is connected to your buccal tubes. The outer part has two curves. The curves go around your face and connect to the breakaways or high pull headgear. To properly use the product, the inner bow needs to be inserted into your buccal tubes. An elastic neck band is placed around the back of the neck while the triangular cast-offs on both sides of the neckband are attached to the outer bow of the headgear. Completing the apparatus is a plastic safety strap that is placed over the neckband and onto the outer bow of the headgear.

Ligating module
A small plastic piece, shaped like a donut, which is used to hold the archwires in the brackets on your teeth

Lip bumper
A lip bumper is used to push the molars on your lower jaw back to create more space for other teeth. The lip bumper consists of an archwire that is attached to a molded piece of plastic. You mount the archwire in the buccal tubes on your lower jaw, and the plastic piece rests against your lips. When you eat or talk, you push the plastic piece back which pushes on your molars. That pushes your molars back.

Mouthguard
A device that is used to protect your mouth from injury when you are participating in sports. The use of a mouthguard is especially important for orthodontic patients, to prevent injuries.

Neck pad
A neck pad is a cloth-covered cushion that you wear around your neck when you put on your facebow. Generally, the breakaways are attached to the neck pad to provide force for the facebow.

Palatal Expander
A device used to make your jaw wider

Retainer
A gadget that the orthodontist gives you to wear after the orthodontist removes your braces. The retainer attaches to your upper teeth and holds them in the correct position. You wear the retainer at night to make sure that none of your teeth move while your jaw hardens and your teeth get strongly attached to your jaw.

Safety Strap
A plastic strap which prevents a facebow from coming loose and hurting you

Separator
A plastic or metal part which the orthodontist uses to create space between your teeth for bands

Wax
A clear wax used to prevent your braces from irritating your lips when your braces are first put on

Band Remover
A special plier which the orthodontist uses to remove bands from your teeth

Bite Stick
A device the orthodontist uses to help put on your bands. The orthodontist puts the band in place, then asks you to bite down on the bite stick to help push the band in place

Cephalometric Viewer
An x-ray viewer

Cheek retractors
Small plastic pieces used to draw back your lips and cheeks so the orthodontist can more easily see your teeth and work in your mouth

Curing Light
A special UV light used to help attach brackets to your teeth

Distal End Cutter
A special plier used to cut off the ends of your archwires

Explorer
A hook-like fine pointed instrument used in examining the teeth

Interproximal Stripper
A device used to remove some of the enamel from the spaces between your teeth. The stripper is used to create extra space for crowded teeth

Mathieu Plier
A special plier which locks when it closes so it holds on to small parts

Pin and Ligature Cutter
A special plier used to cut off archwires, ligatures, etc.

Scaler
A tool with a curved hook on one end. The orthodontist uses the scaler to remove excess cement and check for gaps

Twirl On
A device used to help place ligating modules on brackets

Acid etch
A procedure where a weak acid is smeared on your teeth to ready your teeth for brackets. The acid etch helps your brackets stay on better

Banding
The process of cementing orthodontic bands to your teeth

Bonding
The process of attaching brackets to your teeth using a special safe glue

Cephalometric X-rays
An x-ray of the head that shows whether your teeth are aligned properly, and whether they are growing properly.

The Consultation
A meeting with your orthodontist where he discusses your treatment plan

Debanding
The removal of cemented orthodontic bands

Debonding
The removal of the brackets from your teeth

Extraoral photograph
Facial photos

Impressions
The first step in making a model of your teeth. You bite into a container filled with algenate, and the algenate hardens to produce a mold of your teeth

Interceptive Orthodontic Treatment
Orthodontic treatment usually done when you are 6-8. The objective of interceptive orthodontic treatment is to expand your palate and make other corrections, so that your later orthodontic treatment goes quicker and is less painful

Ligation
A process where an archwire is attached to the brackets on your teeth

Ligating
An adjective used to describe components used to attach archwires to brackets. For example a ligating module is a small plastic piece that goes over the brackets to hold in your archwires

Panoramic x-ray
An x-ray taken by a machine that rotates around your head to give the orthodontist a picture of your teeth, jaws and other important information

The records appointment
One of the initial appointments with your orthodontist. The orthodontist or his/her assistant takes pictures of you, x-rays, and impressions so that they can figure out what treatment needs to be done.

Tightening your braces
A process which occurs every 3-6 weeks when you have braces. You go into the orthodontist’s office and the orthodontist’s assistant either makes adjustments to the wires in your braces or changes the wires

Wax bite
A procedure to measure how well your teeth come together. You bite a sheet of wax and leave bitemark in the wax. The orthodontist looks at the bitemarks to see how well your teeth are aligned

Dental and orthodontic gadgets and materials not mentioned elsewhere

Archform
The shape of the dental arch. For example, the orthodontist could say that you have a horseshoe archform or a “v”-shaped archform.

Closed bite
A malocclusion where your upper teeth cover your lower teeth when you bite down. This is also called a “deep bite.”

Crossbite
A malocclusion where some of your upper teeth are inside of your lower teeth when you bite down

Crowding
An orthodontic problem caused by having too many teeth in too small of a space

Crown angulation
A tooth movement in which the root of the tooth is tipped forward or backward to correct the angle of the crown

Crown inclination
A tooth movement in which the root of the tooth is tipped toward the cheeks (lips) or toward the lingual (palate) of the mouth

DeepBite
Excessive overbite; closed bite

Dentition
The arrangement of the teeth

Diastema
A space between two teeth

Drift
Unwanted movement of teeth

Extrusion
Tooth movement in the direction of eruption. Natural extrusion: teeth grow until there is contact with another tooth. Mechanical extrusion: to pull the teeth so that it extends farther out of your gums

Fixed appliance
Any orthodontic component that is cemented or bonded to the teeth

Flared teeth
A term used to indicate the position of the teeth. The upper teeth are flared lingually (toward the lip)

Full orthodontic treatment
Getting braces

Inclination
The angle of the long axis of a tooth from a particular line of reference; the tilt or tip of a tooth

Interocclusal registration
A wax bite which is used to see how your teeth come together

Interproximal stripping
Reduction of the enamel of the teeth on both sides of the tooth. This procedure is performed to create space for crowded teeth

Intrusion
Movement of a tooth back into the bone

Lingual appliances
Orthodontic appliance fixed to the inside of your teeth. i.e. Lingual appliances are attached to the part of your teeth next to your tongue

Lingual arch
An orthodontic wire attached from molar to molar on the inside of your teeth. Lingual retainers are a variation of the lingual arch going from cuspids to cuspid

Malocclusion
Poor positioning of your teeth

Class I Malocclusion
A Malocclusion where your bite is OK (your top teeth line up with your bottom teeth) but your teeth are crooked, crowded or turned

Class II Malocclusion
A Malocclusion where your upper teeth stick out past your lower teeth. This is also called an “overbite” or “buck teeth”

Class III Malocclusion
A Malocclusion where your lower teeth stick out past your upper teeth. This is also called an “underbite”

Occlusion
The alignment and spacing of your upper and lower teeth when you bite down

Proper Occlusion
A beautiful smile where all of your teeth are straight and your top teeth line up with your bottom teeth

Open bite
A malocclusion in which the teeth do not close or come together in the front of your mouth

Orthodontics
The treatment performed to correct your bite and make your smile look wonderful

Orthodontist
A dentist who has been specially trained to do orthodontics

Orthodontia Braces Overbite
Vertical overlapping of the upper teeth over the lower

Overjet
Horizontal projection of upper teeth beyond the lower

Retruded
A term used when your front teeth are slanted lingually (i.e. toward the back of your mouth)

Rotation
A movement in which the tooth turned along the long axis of the tooth

Spee
The curve of spee is the curvature of the occlusal plane of the teeth

Stop
A bend or auxiliary attachment placed on a wire to limit the archwire from sliding or moving in the bracket slot of the bracket

Tipping
A tooth movement in which the root of the tooth is tipped labially (lip) or lingually (tongue) to correct the angle of the crown of the tooth

Torque
The rotation of a tooth on the long axis moving the root of the tooth in a buccal or labial direction

Tracing (cephalometric)
An overlay drawing traced over a cephalometric x-ray that shows specific structures and landmarks that provide a basis for orthodontic therapy

Traction
The act of drawing or pulling the teeth

Translation
A tooth movement in which the entire tooth moves forward or backward without tipping or rotating

Typodont
A plastic model of a typical mouth, showing the alignment of teeth. A typodont is used to teach orthodontic procedures

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There is no charge for your initial consultation. This is an opportunity for you to meet the members of our practice and get questions answered. The doctor will also have the opportunity to do an examination and give you some recommendations about treatment.
Possible outcomes of the initial exam are:

1. The patient is not ready or may not need treatment and is placed on recall to be seen at a later date.

2. The orthodontic treatment will be of a limited nature at this time and appointments can be scheduled for construction and fitting of the appliance(s).

3. If the problem appears to warrant comprehensive orthodontic therapy, a full set of diagnostic records will be needed. These may be taken at this time or they may be scheduled for a later time. After review of the records, a ‘report’ appointment will be set up. At this appointment, a complete diagnosis, outline of the proposed treatment, and estimated fees will be presented.

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Endodontics (root canal)

When you visit our practice, your smile and comfort is our top priority. Our entire team is dedicated to providing you with personalized, gentle care in Endodontic treatment, known as root canal therapy.

In the past, if you had a tooth with a diseased nerve, you’d probably lose that tooth. Today, with a special dental procedure called a root canal treatment, your tooth can be saved. A root canal is one of the most common dental procedures with millions of treatments performed every year. This simple treatment can prevent the need for dental implants or a bridge. Best of all, it can save your tooth and your smile! Having a root canal done on a tooth is the treatment of choice to save a tooth that would otherwise have to be removed. Some patients believe that removing a tooth that has problems is the solution, but what is not realized is that removing a tooth can ultimately be more costly and cause significant problems for adjacent teeth.

Part of our commitment to serving our patients includes providing information that helps them to make more informed decisions about root canal therapy. By choosing an Endodontic treatment, you are choosing to keep your natural teeth as a healthy foundation for years to come. Building trust by treating each patient as a special individual is fundamental to our success. We understand how uneasy some patients may feel about their dental visits, and how we can make a difference in providing a relaxing and positive experience.

Root canal treatments are highly successful and usually last a lifetime.
At the center of your tooth is pulp. Infection of the pulp can be caused by trauma to the tooth, deep decay, cracks, and chips, or repeated dental procedures. Symptoms of infection might include visible injury or swelling of the tooth area, sensitivity to temperature, or pain in the tooth and gums.

If you experience any of these symptoms, we may recommend a non-surgical treatment to eliminate the diseased pulp. This injured pulp is removed and the root canal system is thoroughly cleaned and sealed. This therapy may be completed in one or more visits depending on the treatment required.

One-Day Endodontic Services – It is now possible to have your root canal procedure done in ONLY ONE APPOINTMENT! Because the comfort of our patients is always of first concern, we utilize the latest in advanced dentistry techniques and equipment that will help make procedures quick, effective, and as comfortable as possible.

Final Restoration
Placing a suitable final restoration is almost as important as the root canal treatment itself. A good way to ensure against future problems is to crown the tooth. A root canal treatment without a crown is not complete and could cause further damage and possible loss of the tooth.

Keeping your teeth healthy from the inside out is vital. Our practice can help restore and retain even the most badly damaged tooth. We offer patients affordable and convenient payment plans including in-house payments, for all of our services. Call us today for a consultation.

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Mathematics and science help make sense of this world. Probabilities and statistics are a big part of quantifying important things so that someone can make easy-to-read pie charts and bar graphs in order to help simple people understand simple things. Some people aren’t very strong conceptual thinkers, and that’s okay because if everyone was, then I wouldn’t feel very special, and I personally really like feeling special. It’s feeling special that makes me feel confident in my abilities, which in turn allows me to accomplish things that I wouldn’t be able to or want to if I felt like I was like everyone else. We’re all unique individuals with our own set of talents and skills, and just like everyone one of our fingerprints are our own, so are our smiles and our bites. I’m serious, our teeth are often the only identifying physical features still left in certain grisly scenarios where there’s nothing left of our bodies, and a forensic dentist is able to use them in order to determine the identity of the victim or subject. So, without getting into forensic science, I just want to make it a point to explain how important all of our individual smiles are with regard to expressing our unique personalities, in a physical sense.

We all need to feel special if we want to have healthy self-esteem and as long as we don’t feel overly special, we’re where we need to be on that spectrum. So, if self-esteem, feeling special, being confident, and our teeth are all interconnected, then wouldn’t you agree that one feeling good about their smile is an important piece of the ‘feeling special’ puzzle? Sure, you can be special and look like Steve Buscemi, or you can feel special and look like John Stamos. Yeah, go ahead and make your choice on that one and extrapolate how things go for most people on the Steve Buscemi end of the smile spectrum who aren’t lucky enough to have made it in Hollywood. Some of the best orthodontists in the world reside in the Los Angeles area and why wouldn’t they? That’s where the money and the best-looking, most perception-concerned people in the entire world are located. So, if LA is at the center of the beauty and the perception-based world, where do you think the rest of the US falls on that spectrum in a global sense? Well, if it’s hard for you to put that into conceptual terms, try drawing a pie chart to help you make sense of it, so you can come to the conclusion that people in the US care more about their appearances than just about anyone else on the planet. So, if this is the place that you live, you’re playing a game where your smile matters as much or more than anything else regarding your appearance, and it doesn’t matter if you feel like you signed up for it or not. You can decide to stay on the bench, but you’re still in the same arena that everyone else is, it’s just a matter of whether you’re going to feel good about yourself when the camera finds you and you show up on the Jumbotron. So, even though there may be a whole lot of superficial people in Hollywood, some of them are actually pretty down-to-earth people, and they’re not the only ones who care about their teeth and got teeth braces at some point in their lives.

You could be fat, skinny, tall, short, smelly, ugly, or beautiful, but if you’ve had work performed to straighten your teeth, then you are much better off than you would be otherwise. You are far better capable of making a good first impression on those you come across in life if you’ve got an impeccable smile that you don’t have to feel self-conscious about when flashing it at anyone who looks your way. There are a lot of people in this world who are scared little cowards on the inside, but they are able to be successful and get what they want in this life because they’re able to produce an air of confidence by being comfortable with their smiles. This life is a game, and if you don’t see it that way then it means that you’re most likely losing and you need to get off the bench and try to make a play. If you didn’t have the privilege of having braces when you were a kid, then it’s time to get some advice from your coach about what you need to do to get some playing time. If you ask, there are all kinds of advice he can provide you with that will get your grill to a place where you feel comfortable smiling ear-to-ear when that camera finds you and your mug is displayed four-stories tall on the Jumbotron of life.

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Ortho content new 1/9/2020

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The field of orthodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry that focuses on identifying and treating abnormalities of the teeth and jaw. While many adults and teenagers receive orthodontic care, orthodontic treatment can provide a number of benefits for younger children, as well. Read on for more information on early orthodontic treatment to determine if it is right for your child.

What Early Orthodontic Care is
Early orthodontic treatment involves the use of orthodontic appliances to correct a number of emerging oral malocclusions. Also known as interceptive treatment, early orthodontic treatment may be an essential part of maintaining your child’s oral health.

When Treatment Should Begin
The American Dental Association recommends that all children undergo an initial orthodontic evaluation no later than age seven, because this is when they will have a good mix of both primary and permanent teeth. Your child’s first adult molars will typically erupt by age seven, allowing an orthodontist to evaluate side-to-side and front-to-back relationships between the teeth. This makes it easier for the orthodontist to identify emerging problems in your child’s teeth or jaws before they lead to complications.

How Early Orthodontic Care is Beneficial
Early orthodontic treatment provides a number of benefits, including, but not limited to:

Preserving space within the dental arch for un-erupted permanent teeth.
Reducing the need for tooth extraction prior to the initiation of later treatment.
Reducing the risk of trauma to protruding upper front teeth.
Influencing proper jaw growth.
Promoting proper facial symmetry.
Shortening overall orthodontic treatment time.

How To Know if Early Orthodontic Treatment is Required
Early orthodontic treatment may be right for your child if he or she is suffering from crowded teeth, gaps or spaces, an overbite, an underbite, misaligned midlines, or an open bite. The best way to determine if your child can benefit from orthodontic treatment is to setup an initial consultation with an orthodontist.

Help preserve the health and integrity of your child’s teeth and jaw by talking to an orthodontist about dental braces. Our Dental Office can evaluate your child’s teeth and provide treatment, if necessary. Give us a call to schedule a consultation.
Orthodontic treatment offers a great way to improve the appearance and integrity of your smile. Learn more about caring for your Invisalign braces, dealing with tender teeth, and the benefits of early orthodontic treatment with these great resources. Give Our Dental Office a call for more information on our services.

It is not uncommon for orthodontic patients to experience tooth sensitivity and tenderness following the initial placement of metal braces and after routine adjustments. While this discomfort should lessen as your mouth gets used to your appliances, there are several things you can do to deal with tooth tenderness. Continue reading for some great tips on managing tender teeth.

1. Use Over-the-Counter Medications
Over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen and Tylenol can help to alleviate tooth tenderness during the course of your orthodontic treatment. However, most individuals will only require limited use of pain medications during the first few days after their braces are applied.

2. Ice the Outside of Your Mouth
A good way to decrease tooth tenderness is to hold an icepack or cold compress to the outside of your cheek near the affected area for twenty minutes at a time. Just be sure to wrap the icepack or compress in a paper towel or wash cloth so that the cold does not irritate your skin.

3. Stick With Soft Foods
Eating soft foods and cutting items into small, bite-sized pieces can make it easier to avoid tooth pain during meals. You can also puree your fruits and vegetables in a blender so that you are not actually biting down on anything hard. It is also a good idea to avoid biting or chewing on foods that are extremely cold, as this can increase your sensitivity.

4. Apply Dental Wax
Dental wax is a great product designed to create a barrier between your orthodontic appliances and the soft tissues within your mouth. While dental wax won’t necessary decrease tooth tenderness, it can be used to prevent your brackets and wires from rubbing up against the inside of your cheeks and lips and becoming irritated.

When conventional treatment methods are not enough to diminish tooth sensitivity, it’s time to contact your orthodontist. For more braces care tips, give our Dental Office a call. You can also visit our website for more information on our services.

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Misaligned bites, also known as oral malocclusions, not only impact the appearance of your smile, but can also lead to a number of more serious dental complications. Consider this overview on the risks of not treating a misaligned bite for more information.

Types of Misaligned Bites

Malocclusion refers to the improper alignment of the teeth and the way that the upper and lower jaws fit together. There are several different types of misaligned bites or malocclusions, including:

Crossbites: Upper teeth rest inside or outside of the lower jaw, making it difficult to chew or bite properly. This may lead the jaw to shift to one side during the growth process.
Crowding: Crowding occurs when the jaw is narrower than it should be or there is not enough room in the dental arch to support the eruption of permanent teeth.
Overbites: Upper front teeth or incisors overlap too far ahead of the lower teeth, touching the front gum tissue or causing the lower teeth to touch the roof of the mouth.
Underbites: Lower teeth protrude ahead of the upper teeth, causing a bulldog-like appearance.
Open bite: Upper and lower teeth do not meet when biting down.
Misplaced midlines: This occurs when the middle of the two front teeth and bottom front teeth do not line up when biting down.

Potential Risks

While misaligned bites may make chewing and biting more difficult, they can also lead to a number of other potential risks. Some of the common risks of untreated misaligned bites include:

Improper jaw growth and abnormal appearance of the face.
Speech impediments.
Mouth breathing, snoring, and sleep apnea.
Early wear and tear on the teeth.
Increased risk of injury, such as chipping or breaking protruding teeth.
Tooth decay, gingivitis, and more serious periodontal disease.

Are you looking for the best orthodontist in the area? If so, then look no further than our Dental Office. With many years of experience, our orthodontists use only the highest quality, state-of-the-art technology to provide our clients with exceptional service. Contact us for more information on your options.

Cleaning the areas between your teeth is necessary to prevent gum disease and tooth decay. While flossing is the proper way to clean between your teeth, it can be difficult to floss normally if you are wearing braces.

You can learn tips to floss your teeth around braces. While it may take some practice, you should still floss at least once a day to maintain good oral hygiene and achieve a beautiful, healthy smile.

If you are looking for an experienced orthodontist in the area, contact Our Dental Office. We are committed to providing our patients with the high-quality orthodontic care they need and deserve. Contact us today to learn more about our services.

Many individuals fear dental appointments, especially when it comes to orthodontic care and dental braces. The best way to alleviate any anxiety is to educate yourself on what to expect from your orthodontic appointment.

Take a look at this overview on what you can expect when visiting the orthodontist:

Patient History Questionnaire
As with any dental specialist, your orthodontist will have you fill out a patient history questionnaire during your initial visit. This will include information regarding your past medical history, family history of disease, current medications, previous surgeries or dental trauma, lifestyle factors, and oral hygiene habits.

After you have completed your patient history questionnaire, you will most likely have a series of x-rays taken to create a digital image of the structure of your teeth and jaws. In some cases, your orthodontist may schedule a panoramic view of x-rays prior to your first appointment, so that he or she has sufficient information to discuss any oral malocclusions during the actual consultation.

Your orthodontist will perform a visual inspection of your teeth and jaws during your appointment, as this will allow them to identify any signs of malocclusions or misaligned bites. Your orthodontist may also ask you a number of questions regarding your dental history and the reasons behind your visit to better understand your overall goals.

Discussion of Treatment Options
Once the visual inspection is complete, your orthodontist will talk to you about your treatment options. This may include traditional metal braces, invisible or lingual braces, functional orthopedic therapy, facial and dental aesthetic services, or treatment options for facial deformities such as cleft lips or palates. This will allow you to discuss what is expected of you as a patient in order to get the most out of your orthodontic treatment.

If you’re ready to schedule an orthodontic appointment, contact our Dental Office today!

Excellent orthodontic treatment results come from a cooperative and informed patient, which means that you’ll want to do your research and take the time to have an in-depth discussion with your orthodontist before getting braces.

If you’re preparing for an upcoming orthodontic appointment, then consider these three questions to ask your orthodontist about dental braces:

1. When Is the Best Time to Begin Treatment?

One of the first questions you’ll want to ask your orthodontist is when you should begin orthodontic treatment. According to the American Dental Association, orthodontic treatment should begin when children still have a mix of their primary and permanent teeth as this makes it easier to identify malocclusions or problems with emerging teeth and jaw growth. While children may not require braces immediately, the ADA suggests that all children undergo an orthodontic evaluation no later than age seven to identify any noticeable problems.

2. Which Types of Braces Are Offered?

Your next question should be which types of braces your orthodontist offers. Many orthodontists offer traditional metal braces, ceramic braces, and lingual braces, or braces that are hidden by being placed on the interior surface of the teeth. While not all individuals are candidates for lingual braces, your orthodontist will help you determine which type is best for your specific treatment needs.

3. What Will Be Expected of You As the Patient?

Your last and perhaps most important question should be what will be expected from you in order to maintain your orthodontic appliances and obtain the best overall results. In order to lower the overall cost and treatment time with braces, it is important that you keep all regularly scheduled appointments, wear your rubber bands or headgear as instructed, eat a well-balanced diet, practice good oral hygiene, and avoid certain foods and habits to reduce the risk of damaging your appliances.

Are you ready for dental braces? Get the best treatment in the area by contacting our Dental Office.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are you orthodontists members of the American Association of Orthodontists?
A: Yes. Membership in the only orthodontic specialty organization recognized by the American Dental Association.

Q: What’s the difference between an orthodontist and a dentist?
A: An orthodontist is a dentist who has completed an additional 2-3 years of post-doctorate training, specific to the field of orthodontics. A typical orthodontist attends college for four years, then dental school for four years and then specific orthodontic training for 3 years. Other dental specialists include Periodontists, Prosthodontists and Endodontists.

Q: Can my dentist practice orthodontics?
A: Yes. Though they lack the specific training, Dentists are licensed to attempt the treatment of simple cases in orthodontics, periodontics, prosthodontics, and other work normally performed by specialists. Similarly, a general practitioner medical doctor is licensed to deliver babies or treat cancer, but most patients prefer to have a specialist involved.

Q: Is your practice accepting new patients?
A: Yes. Please call or email for a free consultation.

Q: Is insurance accepted?
A: Most insurance plans are accepted. Please bring your insurance information with you to your consultation, and we’ll review your coverage options with you.

Q: Is financing available?
A: Yes. Several financing options can be matched to your budget to make your treatment affordable.

Q: What happens on the first visit?
A: We will evaluate your case and explain what treatment is needed, when treatment should begin and give you a cost estimate. Diagnostic records are taken if you elect for treatment to begin immediately. Braces can usually be placed within a week.

Q: How long is the average treatment?
A: Treatment times vary considerably depending on the severity of each case. On average, patients wear braces for 24 months and a retainer for additional 24 months.

Q: When should a child first see an orthodontist?
A: The American Association of Orthodontists suggests a child can be evaluated for orthodontic treatment at age seven.

Q: Is it possible to do braces without extracting teeth?
A: Yes. Removing teeth is one way to provide space for crowded teeth, and often used for relieving “buck” or protruding teeth. Each mouth is different so the treatment plan is designed for the best and most stable end result.

Q: What are invisible braces?
A: All types of braces are visible. The least-visible type are placed on the inside of the teeth, further crowding the inside of the mouth. They tend to be quite uncomfortable, cost more and require a longer treatment time. Consider this general rule: The more visible the brace, the shorter the treatment time.
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Individuals who fear the thought of orthodontic treatment tend to do so because they have limited information regarding the process. Get the facts with the following answers to your orthodontic questions.

When Should I Seek Treatment?

According to the American Dental Association, orthodontic treatment usually begins between the ages of 8 and 14, when children have a mix of both primary and permanent teeth. However, many orthodontic practices can provide treatment to children and adults of all ages with good oral health.

How Long Does Treatment Take?

The length of your treatment will vary based on the type of braces and the level of malocclusion being corrected. For example, individuals who are using the Invisalign system to correct minor spaces or crowding problems will generally have a shorter treatment time than someone using traditional braces to correct a severe crossbite.

Which Braces Are Right for Me?

While your aesthetic preferences should be taken into account, your orthodontist will help determine which kind of braces are right for you based on your specific needs. As with the treatment time, your orthodontist will make this determination based on the type of condition and the severity of malocclusion.

How Does the Invisalign System Work?

Unlike traditional braces that are fixed to the teeth, the Invisalign system uses a series of clear, removable aligners that are worn 20 to 22 hours per day to straighten the teeth. Each aligner is worn for two weeks, after which time it is exchanged for the next in the series.

What Happens After Treatment?

After your braces have been removed, your orthodontist will create a retainer to prevent your teeth from shifting back into their original positions. It is important to follow your orthodontist’s guidelines when wearing your retainers to help ensure their effectiveness.

For more information on treatment methods, financing options, or to set up an initial examination, call our Dental Office.

Making the decision to undergo orthodontic treatment takes a great deal of research on your part. Despite the vast number of orthodontic practices and dental professionals available, finding the right orthodontist doesn’t have to be a difficult task.

Simply be sure your new orthodontist offers the following:

Licensure and Certification

Current licensure is crucial for any potential orthodontist. You may also consider looking for an orthodontist who is a member of notable organizations such as the American Association of Orthodontists and the American Dental Association, as this demonstrates their commitment to higher levels of patient care. Membership in these organizations also demonstrates participation in ongoing education, which helps orthodontists stay informed about the most recent technologies and treatment options.

Adult and Pediatric Care

Orthodontic treatments aren’t just for teens. Working with an orthodontist who provides treatment options for patients of all ages will ensure that you are getting the best care for your family members’ individual needs.

Multiple Treatment Options

The more treatment options you have to choose from, the better your chances of finding a method that is best tailored to your oral and aesthetic needs. Research the services offered by the orthodontist ahead of time to see if he or she offers today’s most popular orthodontic appliances, including standard metal braces, clear ceramic braces, lingual braces, and the Invisalign system.

The doctors with our Dental Office are members of the American Dental Association and the American Association of Orthodontist. Contact us for more information on our orthodontists, treatment options, or to set up an initial consultation.

Orthodontic treatment for adults has become more popular over the past several years. Adult patients often choose to undergo orthodontic treatment because their own parents could not afford it when they were young, because they refused early orthodontic treatment, or simply because they experienced late-onset crowding. There are various treatment options available for adults.

Regardless of your age, the orthodontists with our Dental Office can help you obtain a beautiful smile. Get started by calling us.

Caring for your braces and orthodontic appliances does not have to be a difficult task, especially when technological tools are available to help you.

Available for the iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad, the new iBracesHelp app is ideal for anyone with braces or those interested in orthodontic treatment. This free app comes complete with a glossary of orthodontic terms, home care tips, frequently asked questions, and emergency care information.

When you’re looking for high-quality orthodontic services in the area, look no further than our Dental Office. Give us a call to set up a consultation appointment.

The Invisalign system is a revolutionary orthodontic treatment method that gradually straightens teeth without using metal brackets, archwires, or elastic ties. Using a series of clear, removable aligners, Invisalign braces can be used to correct oral malocclusions such as spaced teeth, crowding, crossbites, underbites, and overbites.

However, there are certain steps you will want to take to ensure fast, effective treatment:

Comply with Treatment Requirements

Diligence and self-discipline are crucial for getting the most out of your Invisalign treatment. While you may remove your aligners to eat or when brushing and flossing, you must wear your aligners for at least 20 hours each day throughout the duration of your treatment in order to achieve the desired results.

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

Plaque and bacteria build up on your aligners just as they do your teeth. This not only makes the aligners become cloudy but also increases your risk of developing cavities and gum disease. Brush your aligners with toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush every day and soak them once a week in denture cleaner to help keep them bacteria-free.

Visit Your Orthodontist Regularly

Missing your orthodontic appointments can severely hinder your progress. Be sure to keep up with your appointments and visit with your orthodontist every two weeks to undergo an evaluation. This will not only allow you to move on to the next aligner in the series, but will also enable you to discuss any problems or concerns with your orthodontist.

Whether you are interested in the Invisalign system, lingual braces, clear ceramic braces, or traditional metal braces, our Dental Office is here to help. Our state-of-the-art office is dedicated to giving you the smile you want at a price you can afford. Call us for directions to our location.

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Are you looking for ways to improve your smile? Learn more about orthodontic treatment options for adults and children, tips for maintaining your oral hygiene, and an overview of Invisalign treatment. Give our Dental Office a call for more information about our orthodontic services.

While traditional braces utilize metal brackets, archwires, and elastic ties to gradually alter your dentition, the Invisalign system uses clear, removable aligners to treat many of the same oral malocclusions in less time.

The Invisalign system took preexisting technology into the digital age, mapping out each stage of your treatment so that you can visibly see how your teeth should look after wearing each aligner.

Is the Invisalign system the right orthodontic solution for your needs? Find out by giving the orthodontic team of our Dental Office a call.

Many orthodontists are approached with peculiar questions from their patients regarding braces. Whether the questions revolve around pain or the duration of the treatment, a great orthodontist will do his or her best to put patients’ worries to rest and help them distinguish rumor from reality. Here are three common braces myths that we’ll help you dismiss:

1. Braces are for kids. Many people think that once you’ve passed your teen years, there are no more options for teeth alignment. This is definitely a false myth about braces. Many adults decide to get braces in order to correct their smile and restore confidence in their appearance. Orthodontic treatment can also help improve the condition of your teeth and gums at any age.

2. Braces are ugly and noticeable. This assumption is certainly false. Modern technology provides patients with great new options for braces. Not only can your orthodontist provide braces to correct your smile, but he or she can also help you find an option that will work for your lifestyle. Whether you choose clear aligners, lingual braces, or another subtle option, you can keep your orthodontic treatment inconspicuous.

3. Braces mean two years or more of pain. This is another false idea regarding braces. It is true that you will experience some pain as your teeth shift during your orthodontic treatment, but this pain can easily be managed with over-the-counter medication. After you grow used to the presence of braces in your mouth, you will not notice the pressure they put on your teeth as much. In addition, the time that your orthodontic treatment will take will depend upon the severity of your condition and your dedication to the treatment, but it is certainly possible that it will take under two years.

If you’ve allowed some of these common myths to keep you from discussing braces with your orthodontist, come speak to the caring team at our Dental Office. We work with patients of all ages to help them get the smile of their dreams. Call us today to learn what we can do for you.

Whether you and your orthodontist have already discussed braces or not, you may be curious to learn how braces can work to give you the straight, healthy smile that you want. At our Dental Office, we love to share this important knowledge with our patients so they can understand more about their health and how we’re helping them improve it. Here are some sites we suggest to help you learn a little more about the process of straightening your teeth with braces.

If your child getting ready to undergo orthodontic treatment? Both you and your child can learn more about braces by looking at this guide from KidsHealth.org.
Don’t be fooled by braces myths that coworkers or friends have shared with you. 3M.com will help you separate fact from fiction with this reassuring article.
Orthodontic care doesn’t stop after the braces have been removed. Take a look at this article from MedicineNet.com to learn more about wearing a retainer and get tips for proper maintenance and cleaning methods.
Wearing braces is becoming increasingly common among adults. Visit this page from Colgate to find out how you could benefit from braces.
Do you want to learn more about the different types of braces available? If so, check out this helpful article offered by the experts at WebMD.
For even more information about braces, come visit our Dental Office or call us today. Let us show you how you can achieve your perfect smile.

If you’ve recently left your orthodontist’s office with a new retainer in hand, you’re going to need to learn the proper ways to care for it. This device is responsible for keeping your teeth in a set position and should be maintained in great shape so that it can fulfill this purpose. Here is what you should know about caring for your new retainer:

Be Careful When Removing It To Eat
One of the biggest mistakes that orthodontic patients make with their retainers is placing them on a napkin or paper plate after removing them to eat. Oftentimes, these retainers end up in the garbage with the napkin and are never found. Lost retainers must be replaced, which is an added expense for orthodontic treatment, so be sure to keep yours in a safe place while eating.

Always Use the Retainer Case
If you need to take your retainer out for a meal or activity, make sure to place it in its case. Get into the habit of keeping your retainer’s case with you and placing the retainer in the case whenever you are not wearing it so that it does not become lost or damaged. Not wearing your retainer because you cannot find it or because it is broken will allow your teeth to begin to return to their prior state.

Brush and Clean Your Retainer
Every time you brush your teeth, you should also brush your retainer. You should clean it thoroughly on a weekly basis by soaking it in a denture cleanser that is mixed with a cup of warm water. After the retainer has soaked for a few minutes, remove and rinse it thoroughly before you put it back into your mouth.

Like any orthodontic device, retainers are most effective when they are cared for and used properly. At our Dental Office, we pride ourselves on the excellent service we offer to our clients and the helpful information we provide to them regarding orthodontic care. Call us today to learn more about our practice or to set up an appointment.

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How often do I need to go to the dentist?

We recommend that you visit our dental offices at least once every six months. These routine visits enable our dentists and dental team to evaluate your oral health and provide you with a professional dental cleaning. If your smile is affected by certain conditions, our team may recommend more frequent visits to better help you maintain good oral health.

My teeth do not hurt, and they look fine. Do I still need to go to the dentist?

Even if you cannot see anything wrong with your teeth, it is important to keep up with your routine visits every six months. During your regular dental exam and cleaning, our team will check for any dental diseases and damage that may not be readily apparent. This enables us to provide the treatment you need before these problems become bigger and more painful. Your routine visit will also include a professional dental cleaning, which can help to prevent problems like tooth decay and gum disease.

Is it normal if my gums bleed when I brush my teeth?

No, your gums should not bleed when you floss or brush your teeth. Gums that bleed easily are a common symptom of gum disease. If you notice that your gums bleed when you brush, we urge you to contact us today to schedule a visit with our team.

What is gum disease, and how do I know if I have it?

Periodontal disease, more commonly known as gum disease, is a condition that affects the soft tissues of the mouth. If left untreated, this degenerative condition may lead to consequences like tooth and bone loss. You may have gum disease if you experience the following symptoms:

Gums that bleed easily

Swollen gums

Loose teeth

Painful chewing

Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth

Pus around the teeth and gums

Gums that are redder than usual

Tender gums

If you notice these signs of gum disease, we encourage you to contact our dentists for the treatment you need.

What is cosmetic dentistry, and how can it benefit my smile’s appearance?

Cosmetic dentistry includes several dental treatments designed to improve your smile’s appearance. Through cosmetic dentistry, our dentists are able to correct flaws in your smile like crooked or gapped teeth, misshapen teeth, very worn teeth, discolored or darkened teeth, cracked teeth, and broken or chipped teeth.

What can I do about teeth that are stained, darkened, or yellowed?

Over time, many factors may contribute to tooth discoloration. Our dentists may suggest professional teeth whitening to brighten and whiten your teeth. This is a simple, quick treatment that can noticeably enhance your smile.

What causes bad breath, and how can I prevent it?

Several factors can contribute to bad breath. The following are common causes of halitosis, or bad breath:

Poor dental hygiene

Certain foods, like onions and garlic

Untreated dental diseases like tooth decay and periodontal disease

Medical conditions such as dry mouth, diabetes, chronic sinus infections, and liver and kidney problems

Improving your oral hygiene routine, avoiding certain foods, and making certain that your smile is in good health can all help to improve your breath. If your bad breath is caused by a medical condition, we encourage you to see your general physician for the proper treatment.

For more information about dental care and how we can improve your oral health, we invite you to contact us today!

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A Positive Experience

We strive to build a foundation of trust by treating each patient as a special individual. We know that some patients may feel nervous about coming to the dentist, and we work hard to help every patient feel relaxed and comfortable at our office.

Our entire team is committed to providing the excellent, personalized care and services you deserve for an optimal dental experience.

Experts in Anxiety-Free Visits

Our team is here to take the fear out of visiting the dentist. To help you feel more comfortable and at ease, we explain every step of your treatment along the way, provide sedation dentistry, and offer our Signature Anxiety-Free Services like warm blankets and movies.

High Standards in Professional Dental Care

Every member of our team loves what they do, and it shows. Our degreed professionals are committed to treating your dental needs with the best possible patient care and customer service, and we focus on building personal relationships along the way as well. We hope our patients feel like our office is a family, where they are always greeted warmly and treated fairly.

Our high standards of excellence in dental care enable us to provide each patient with the quality services and treatments they deserve. We are pleased to provide comprehensive treatment planning, and we offer both restorative and cosmetic dentistry to help you reach optimal oral health. Should you suffer from a dental emergency, our friendly dentists and team are here to see and care for you as soon as possible.

Professional Dental Training & Expertise

As your dental healthcare professionals, we want you to feel confident in our team of highly trained and skilled clinicians. Our team is dedicated to providing the personalized care you need to keep your smile healthy. We are committed to continual education and learning so that we can continue to give you the highest possible level of service.

To stay up to date with the latest techniques, products, and equipment in dentistry, our dentists and team members regularly attend dental lectures, conventions, and meetings. We also hold memberships in several professional dental associations, which help us stay current with the latest recommendations and changes in the dental field.

Continual Education & Prevention

We are true believers in preventive care and education as the keys to optimal oral health. We strive to provide “dental health care” rather than “disease care,” which is why we focus on thorough exams. This includes checking the overall health of your teeth and gums, performing oral cancer exams, and taking X-rays when needed.

In addition, we know that routine cleanings, fluoride, sealants, and flossing are all helpful in preventing dental diseases. We are concerned not only about the appearance of your smile, but also about your total health and wellbeing. Reviewing your medical history on a regular basis helps us stay informed of your overall health, any new medications, and any health conditions that may affect your oral health.

Uncompromising Commitment to Safety

Infection control in our office is very important to us. To protect both our team and our patients, we strictly maintain sterilization and cross-contamination processes using the standards recommended by the American Dental Association (ADA), Center for Disease Control (CDC), and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

To discover more about what makes us different, we invite you to contact our dentists!

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So you want to know how to find the best dentists fast and easy, minus the hassle of having to pay an overcharged bill from your dentist?

I understand exactly how you feel! For the simple fact I had a very tough time finding a dentist that didn’t over bill me for their services.

But through all my misfortunes with dentists, I’ve discovered a secret formula for finding the best dentist with the most affordable prices. That’s right – say goodbye to overpriced dental bills forever!..

Luckily for you I’m going to share my secret with you. Because it allowed me to locate the best dentists that don’t cheat people like you and me out of our hard earned cash.

I found a great dentist that’s perfect for me, and so can you! Because I’m going to show you exactly how I did it… Step-by-Step

Warning: Before you randomly select a dentist out of the phone book or your local directory follow these simple steps first:

1.Do not go directly to your insurance provider to choose a dentist. It’s always best to get a personal reference first along with some simple research done by you personally, and then check on insurance availability.

Check This Out – nearly 90% of the time people go directly to their insurance providers to choose their dentist… Big Mistake!

2. Go to your computer instead and do a Google search for the dentist in your area.

3. Visit your local directory or yellow pages website.

4. Make a list of all the local dentist that provide the directories with their own website for you to visit.

Important Note: A website shows a positive sign that they are a real professional business establishment – Not just some hole in the wall dental business looking to rip you off every chance they get… So No Website, No List!

5. Downsize that same list of your local dentists by paying attention to these key factors about their website…

Key #1: Do they provide you with all of their contact info?  Email, Phone, Address, etc. – Make sure it’s valid!

Key #2: Does the website look user friendly or shady? The best professionals are straight forward and don’t try to hide things from you!

Key #3: Do you see any before and after pictures of some of the previous work they have done, or testimonials posted from other clients?

6. Now that you’ve narrowed your list of dentists, start calling them to see which ones offer you a free consultation.

7. Make appointments to all the ones that do, and get written price estimates from all of them on various types of work that you may want to have done – Very Important!

Examples: Teeth cleaning, cosmetic dentistry, braces, tooth whitening, etc.

8. Compare all the different price quotes that you got from those dentists. Now you have the financial leverage on them all.

Warning: Don’t choose your dentist just yet. We are only half way through the process! You must perform the other half of the process which is crucial to making the whole thing work like a charm.

Now that we’ve covered how not to get overcharged on our dental bill… It’s time to find the best dentist that’s perfect for you?

I don’t want to overwhelm you though with to much information all at one time.

So before we get into the second half of the secret formula, I want you to take in all the info that we’ve just discussed and put it to use now!

Don’t worry I’m not trying to hold out on you… I promise to give you the rest!

I just want to make sure that you to get the maximum rewards out of the process. And in order to do that you must go and master the first half now!

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