Orthodontics is a specialty of dentistry concerned with the alignment of teeth and to improve appearance.
Orthodontics is devoted to building beautiful smiles by bringing teeth, lips, and jaws into proper alignment. Straight teeth function better, are easier to clean, and are more likely to last your lifetime.
Although patients of any age can benefit from orthodontic braces, they tend to work much quicker on pre-teens and teenagers since they are still experiencing jaw growth. The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that children should first see an orthodontist around the age of seven years-old. An orthodontic examination may be beneficial before age seven if facial or oral irregularities are noted.
Today, an increasing number of adults are choosing to wear clear braces to straighten their teeth and correct malocclusions (bad bites).
Clear braces are a great alternative to metal braces. They are less noticeable than metal braces and are perfect for teens and adults who don't want metal to mar their smiles.
Clear braces are the same size and shape as metal braces, except that they have tooth-colored or clear brackets that blend in to teeth. Some even use tooth-colored wires to be even less noticeable.
Poorly aligned teeth often cause problems speaking, biting and chewing. Most irregularities are genetic or occur as a result of developmental issues. Conversely, some irregularities are acquired or greatly exacerbated by certain habits and behaviors such as:
Orthodontic braces, clear and metal braces are predictable, versatile and incredibly successful at realigning the teeth. Braces work in the same way regardless of the age of the patient, but the treatment time is greatly reduced in patients who are still experiencing jaw growth and have not been affected by gum disease. In short, an adult can experience the same beautiful end results as a teenager, but treatment often takes longer.
Braces consist of bands, wires and/or brackets. Bands are fixed around the teeth or tooth and used as anchors for the appliance, while brackets are bonded to the front of the tooth. Arch wires are passed through the brackets and attached to the bands. Tightening the arch wire puts tension on the teeth, gradually moving them to their proper position. Braces are usually adjusted monthly to bring about the desired results, which may be achieved within a few months to a few years. Today's braces are smaller, lighter and show far less metal than in the past.
We usually recommend braces to improve the patient's:
When children and teenagers are treated, we plan the final outcome to be one of great stability. Many of our patients undergo treatment without the need of extractions, providing a beautiful smile, versus one that is collapsed as seen in treatments done in past decades. This allows for their jaw to have great balance and avoids locking of their jaw. This, in the long run, avoids the occurrence of TMJ problems.
Orthodontics can do so much more that just straighten your teeth. It can help in the treatment of headaches and TMJ problems. Both of these are mainly due to bite irregularities and severe wear, causing many of the muscles of the head to overwork themselves. The consequence is the onset of headache symptoms. Many patients contact us as a last resort to address their problems. As the patient’s bite is reorganized into the right position, muscle strain is alleviated, therefore correcting the source of the headaches.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment with our office if your are considering braces.
Don't hesitate to contact us to discuss any aspect of your dental health - we don't charge for giving advice!
Dr. Baker and staff are very professional, I drove from another county for this appointment and I am definitely now a repeat customer. Great job folks!!!
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Very caring and friendly staff. They take their time to make sure you are comfortable. The extraction was not an easy one and the Dr took his time to stop and check on me throughout the procedure I will be making Dr. Baker my permanent dentists, and we will be seeing a lot of him in the future. Build up those muscles Dr. Thank you for making me feel welcome.
I really glad my co-worker recommended Dr Baker. I just had my 6-month cleaning. The staff very courteous, professional, and explains everything. Dr Baker is a real pro. I highly recommend them.
Dr. Baker's office provides excellent service and his dentistry skills are excellent. The work that they do is explained thoroughly and completed with excellent quality. The charges for their work are fair and they process all of the required documents so that the customer receives maximum insurance benefits.
The office and staff is very professional. Dr. Baker was very nice and through. Would recommend to friends and family.
Andi takes great care and is gentle with cleanings. I had a real bad experience at the Dentist years ago and now Dr. Baker and his assistants have restored my faith in that not all Dentists or hygienists are equal in the talent they possess...A++++++
The title of my review says it all. It's always a pleasure to visit Dr Baker's office he & his staff are completely honest and always provide me with all my options. Thank you for doing an awesome job! Candice
I was impressed with all of the new equipment Dr. baker has purchased for his practice. He uses the latest cutting edge digital X-rays and scanners. He even has athe equipment to make a crown while you wait! no more leaving with a temporary crown and coming back a week later. I left my old dentist because his equipment and office were outdated. so glad I chose to use a groupon to try Dr. Baker. I have found the perfect dentist office.
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