For All Ages

Orthodontics for Children

While there is no exact age for children to begin orthodontic treatment, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends visiting the orthodontist around age seven. By this age, most children have a mix of baby teeth and adult teeth, making it easier for the orthodontist to diagnose tooth and jaw problems. 

Early Treatment Options

For parents, it's not always easy to know if and when your child may need orthodontic treatment. Here are a few things to look for that may indicate that your child needs to see an orthodontist:

• Early or late loss of baby teeth
• Crowded, misplaced, or blocked teeth
• Cross bites
• Finger or thumb sucking
• Underbites
• Teeth that come together abnormally, or do not come together at all
• Jaws and teeth that are not proportionate to the rest of the face

If problems are identified at an early age, a short early treatment strategy can prevent the problem from becoming much more complex and difficult to treat later on. Succesful early treatment can often prevent the need for permanent tooth extractions and/or surgery when patients are older. Contact our practice to schedule an appointment for an early treatment orthodontic evaluation. 

 

Orthodontics for Teens

The teenage years are often the perfect time for orthodontic treatment because the permanent teeth have all fully erupted, but the jaws are still growing and are more adaptable for correction. 

Since every case is unique, treatment plans will be different for each patient. The amount of time it takes to treat your smile with braces depends on three key factors:

• Early (Phase I) treatment — Early treatment allows orthodontists to make initial corrections so that later treatment is often quicker and less complex. If you underwent early treatment, it may decrease your treatment time in braces later on.
• What needs correction — The type and severity of a patient's problem largely determines how long the process takes. Some issues take longer to resolve, and each patient may react to treatment differently. Slow developing or impacted teeth, fused teeth, severe overbites or underbites, and cross bites are examples of issues that take longer to correct. 
• YOU! — Your willingness to use the appliances your orthodontist recommends plays a major role in the length of time it takes to complete your treatment. Good cooperation with rubber bands, good hygiene, and taking care of your braces will truly help make your treatment go faster!

Braces Your Way!

Braces today come in a variety of styles, materials, and colors, making life with braces easier, more comfortable, and more stylish than ever! 

Our practice offers several options to choose from:

• Clear braces
• Light gold braces
• Self-ligating braces
• MSU Spartan braces
• Classic silver braces

Once you choose your style of braces, you can decorate them with unlimited combinations of color patterns, and change them up at each appointment!

Orthodontic braces are a big part of life for many teenagers, and today's braces make it easy to look good and feel good! Please contact our practice to schedule your next orthodontic checkup.

Orthodontics for Adults

Orthodontic treatment is no longer just for teens. In fact, the American Association of Orthodontists states that one in five orthodontic patients is over the age of 21. Many adults are choosing to receive treatment because they understand the importance of maintaining their health, and they want to feel better about their appearance. Adults everywhere are taking advantage of the opportunity to receive orthodontic care, and now you can too!

Why should you consider orthodontic treatment?

• Straight teeth are healthy teeth — Teeth that are properly aligned are easier to keep clean with flossing and brushing, and may help prevent other health problems.
• A beautiful, straight smile builds confidence — Orthodontic treatment can help boost your self-confidence, giving you a better quality of life and the freedom to smile without holding back!
• Mouths left untreated can get worse — Not receiving orthodontic treatment when needed may lead to greater problems in the future and create long-term health issues.

Treatment options for adults

Today's orthodontic treatment options offer a variety of braces and appliances that are comfortable, aesthetic, and customized to meet your needs. Types of braces include:

• Clear braces
• Self-ligating braces
• Traditional light gold or silver braces

Our practice also recognizes that adults and children have different needs, and require a different level of attention and care. We will work with you to ensure that we have a good understanding of your specific needs and expectations, and that you receive the most appropriate treatment.

To learn more about the benefits of adult orthodontics please contact our practice to schedule an appointment.