Treatment
Early Treatment
Age 7, A Year to Remember
In the past orthodontic treatment was often postponed until after eruption of all the permanent teeth. We now know that many orthodontic problems are better treated earlier in childhood by utilizing the growth that takes place in younger children.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have an orthodontic evaluation by age 7 or earlier if a problem is detected. Although treatment may not begin at this young age, Dr. Foster may elect to monitor your child’s dental development. Early detection greatly reduces the need for removal of permanent teeth.
Treatment is sometimes recommended for younger children and because children are usually enthusiastic and cooperative, total treatment time is often reduced. Orthodontic results are often achieved which would not otherwise be possible once the face and jaws have stopped growing.
Benefits of Early Treatment
- Influence jaw growth in a positive manner.
- Harmonize width of the dental arches.
- Improve eruption patterns.
- Lower risking trauma to protruded upper incisors.
- Correct harmful oral habits.
- Improve esthetics and self -esteem.
- Simplify and shorten treatment time for later orthodontic procedures.
- Reduce likelihood of impacted permanent teeth.
- Preserve or gain space for erupting teeth.
Early orthodontic screening can lead to simple, more effective treatment or, at least, greater peace of mind.
Adult Treatment
More and more adults today are seeking orthodontic treatment to improve their smile. In fact, about 25 percent of our patients are adults! We offer a full range of treatments specifically designed for adults – leaving you with a dramatically different smile and healthier bite.
Orthodontic treatment is not only designed to improve the appearance of your smile, but improve the health of your teeth and gums as well. By seeking orthodontic treatment as an adult you can possibly avoid severe tooth decay, gum and bone loss, irregular wear of the tooth enamel, and TMJ/TMD pain.
Often times, because adults usually are more compliant in their orthodontic treatment, their results turn out far greater than with a child and/or teen. By following the instructions provided by your orthodontist, you not only increase your chances for amazing results, but could also shorten your treatment time as well.
We offer a wide selection of braces to meet the individual needs and desires of each of our adult patients. From traditional metal braces and ceramic braces to clear aligners that can be worn to improve mild cases of misaligned teeth, we are confident we can help you achieve and maintain the beautiful, healthy smile you’ve always dreamed about.
Don’t ever feel it’s too late to enhance your smile. Schedule your free consultation today and let us help you start your journey to receiving a beautiful, straight smile!
Types of Braces
Invisalign®
The Invisalign System is a series of clear overlay templates—called aligners—that have been generated by computer simulation to gradually move the teeth. This system is available to adult patients with certain orthodontic bite problems. Ask us if you are a candidate for the Invisalign system.
Damon® Brackets
Damon® braces were invented by Dr. Dwight Damon. The Damon® bracket utilizes (sliding-door) technology known as “self-ligation” that allows the wire to slide back and forth within the bracket.
No elastic or steel ties are used with Damon® brackets. This technology creates less friction and results in greater comfort for the patient. In addition, Damon® braces often reduce both treatment time and the number of adjustments that are usually performed.
In-Ovation C Braces
In-Ovation “C” is a self-ligating bracket, which allows more control during treatment than more traditional brackets. The difference is that they are smaller in size but also stronger and more efficient because they have a built-in clip that holds the archwires in place without the need for wire or elastic ties. This allows for greater overall attractiveness, increased comfort and a more reliable product.
In-Ovation C braces provide patients with a beautiful, healthy smile in less time than traditional braces. Their special design also provides for greater comfort and fewer appointments. Plus their ceramic translucency helps to camouflage the appearance of braces allowing you to maintain the natural beauty of your smile.
Retention
When we remove your braces, we will begin the retention stage of your treatment. The retention phase lasts for a minimum of 24 months. Your final orthodontic result depends on your retainers, so follow through with the hard work you’ve put in so far. Remember to remove your retainer before brushing, and brush your retainer before placing it back in your mouth.