You already know that braces straighten crooked teeth. But what you may not realize is that orthodontic treatment achieves more than beautiful smiles for most patients. This section briefly explains how and why proper treatment results in a lifetime benefit

WHAT IS ORTHODONTICS

Orthodontics in the branch of dentistry that specializes in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. In other words, we straighten teeth and improve your bite. The technical term for these problems is "malocclusion," which literally means "bad bite." The our orthodontists design, apply and control braces to bring teeth, lips and jaws into proper alignment and achieve the best possible facial balance.

Everyone wants a beautiful smile, and everyone should have a healthy one. Our goal is to achieve both for their patients. Crooked and crowded teeth are hard to clean and maintain. This can lead to tooth decay, cavities, gum disease and even tooth loss. Sometimes misalignment of the jaw joints can actually result in chronic headaches or pain in the face or neck. Orthodontics can greatly impact all of these situations.

And who can forget about an attractive smile? Most people report a substantial increase in self-confidence because of their straightened teeth and improved bite. In this way, orthodontic treatment can benefit social and career success as well as improve one's general attitude toward life.

WHEN TO BEGIN

When to begin orthodontic treatment depends on the specific orthodontic problem you may be experiencing. In general, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child first visit an orthodontist by age 7 for an initial evaluation. In fact, if a parent, family dentist or the child's physician detects a problem, it is never too early to be evaluated.

Early examination allows your orthodontist to determine exactly when a child's particular problem should be treated for maximum improvement with the least amount of time and expense. In many patients, early treatment achieves results that are unattainable once the face and jaw have finished growing.

LENGTH OF TREATMENT

In general, treatment ranges anywhere from one to three years. This, of course, depends on the individual case, the patient's cooperation in treatment, growth of the mouth, severity of the problem, etc. Mild problems may require less time.

Some important factors in speeding up treatment is following your orthodontist's directions in wearing rubber bands and other orthodontic devices, practicing good oral hygiene and taking care not to loose any braces.

After the braces are removed, permanent or removable retainers will be necessary to keep the teeth in their new positions. the type of retainer and the length of time it will be worn is determined by your orthodontist.

ADULT TREATMENT

Orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age. It may surprise you to know that approximately 20% of our orthodontists patients are over the age of 18. In fact, many adult patients report that once they have braces, they are astounded at the number of adults with braces that they see in their daily lives. Furthermore, clear braces are available for improved aesthetics during treatment.

The biological process involved in tooth movement is the same in adults and children. The health of an individual's teeth, gums and supporting bone is what is most important in determining the prospects for improving an adult's smile and dental health.

Because an adult's facial bones are no longer growing, certain corrections cannot be accomplished with braces alone. However, very dramatic changes are still possible.

COST OF TREATMENT

The cost of treatment varies greatly depending on the severity of the problem for each patient. Initial evaluations are free, and you are under no obligation to begin treatment. After your evaluation is complete, you will be given an exact estimate of the cost of treatment.

Make sure to check with your employer-provided benefit plans to see if orthodontic treatment is included. In some cases, up to half the cost of treatment will be covered by such plans.

When considering the cost of orthodontic treatment, don't forget to keep in mind the many benefits of having a lifetime of healthy teeth and a beautiful smile, making orthodontic treatment one of the most cost-efficient and preventive health care services available.