For all ages

The benefits of orthodontic treatment often go beyond the obvious physical changes of an improved bite and straighter teeth; it’s also a great way to improve a person’s overall self-image.   While having beautiful straight teeth is important, even more important is the need to alleviate any potential health problems associated with the teeth or jaw.  Crooked teeth or jaw problems may contribute to improper cleaning of teeth, leading to tooth decay and, possibly, gum disease or total tooth loss.  Orthodontic problems that go untreated can sometimes elead to chewing and digestion difficulties, speech impairments, abnormal wear of tooth surfaces and jaw pain.  

The American Association of Orthodontics recommends that children get an orthodontic evaluation no later than age 7.  Though orthodontic treatment can be done at any age, timely treatment ensures maximum dental health. 

With all of the recent advancements in orthodontics, wearing braces has never been easier.  State-of-the-art appliances and treatments are now available, from traditional metal braces, to clear/ ceramic brackets, to NASA type wires that are heat activated and require fewer adjustments!  Many patients are also candidates for treatment with Invisalign, which uses aligners to straighten teeth without brackets or wires. 

If treatment is necessary, we will thoroughly discuss which treatment option is best suited for you!

Common reasons for orthodontic treatment in adults & children:

• Crowding – Teeth are misaligned and crowded due to insufficient space.
• Missing or extra teeth – Due to tooth decay, injuries, or inherited problems
• Overjet (protruding upper teeth) – Upper teeth that protrude beyond normal
• Deep Overbite – The lower front teeth bite into the upper tissue of the upper teeth.
• Crossbite – One or more upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth (towards the tongue).
• Spacing between teeth – Teeth are missing or may be too small.
• Open bite - Front teeth don't touch
• Underbite (lower jaw protrusion) – Lower jaw is longer than the upper jaw.

Specific to children:

• Finger or thumb sucking – These habits can cause protrusion of the upper incisor teeth, and mouth breathing.
• Teeth erupting out of position – Can be guided to proper alignment.