About Orthodontics

Remember, Quality is Never Accidental...

There are many reasons why people seek orthodontic treatment. Some want a more attractive smile or need better function of their teeth. Parents may wish to help increase their child's self-confidence during critical development years.  Adults may seek treatment to obtain additional confidence in their appearance. Braces can increase the ability to keep  teeth clean, can improve force distribution and wear patterns of the teeth and can guide permanent teeth into more favorable postitions. For most people, braces will greatly improve the way you look and feel.

When your treatment is complete, you will have a smile you are proud of and the confidence to show it off!

How Do Braces Work?

Braces use steady gentle pressure to gradually move teeth into their proper positions. The brackets that are placed on your teeth and the archwire that connects them are the main components. When the archwire is placed into the brackets, it tries to return to its original shape. As it does, it applies pressure to move your teeth to their new, more ideal position. Orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age!

Some Signs that Braces are Needed...

There are many reasons why someone may need Orthodontic therapy. Braces not only create a more attractive smile, but can correct bite problems that can affect the health of your teeth, gums, and supporting bone structure. Many people may not realize they are suffering damage to their teeth until the damage has already begun. Periodontal (gum) disease, wear patterns, and jaw joint problems can occur slowly over time. Aligning the teeth and helping your bite fit together properly can help prevent  irreversible damage that can occur from having a "bad bite".  Here are some signs of a "bad bite"...

♦     Upper front teeth protrude excessively over the lower teeth, or are bucked.
♦     Top front teeth cover most of the lower teeth when biting together (deep bite)
♦     Upper front teeth are behind or inside the lower front teeth (underbite)
♦     The upper and lower front teeth do not touch when biting together (open bite)
♦     Crowded or overlapped teeth
♦     The center of the upper and lower teeth do not line up
♦     Finger or thumb sucking habits which continue after six or seven years old
♦     Difficulty chewing
♦     Teeth wearing unevenly or excessively
♦     The lower jaw shifts to one side or the other when biting together
♦     Spaces between the teeth

How Long Does Treatment Take?

Treatment times vary on a case-by-case basis, but the average time is from one to two years. Actual treatment time can be affected by rate of growth and severity of the correction necessary. A big factor in a successful outcome in you! Treatment times may vary based on patient compliance. Patients who keep regular appointments, follow the orthodontic dietary rules, maintain good oral hygiene and wear appliances as prescribed, will be more likely to complete their treatment on time.

Before beginning your orthodontic care,  Dr. Barton will discuss all of your options and provide an estimate for how long your full treatment may take.  Take the first step, call our office for a complimentary Orthodontic Evaluation.