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!
This was the best dentist experience anyone could ask for! This is my first time visiting this office (I went w/ a Groupon for cleaning, exam & x rays) Sonja, Melissa & Dr. Baker were all so warm & friendly. They are all very knowledgable, professional & gentle. It had definitely been a while (years) since my last dental visit so my teeth weren't perfect but they made me feel very comfortable & not embarrassed. This office now as a new loyal patient. i def. picked the right Groupon!! 🙂
A very excellent, friendly staff, from Cindy, to Sonya, to Dr. Baker. Feels very comfortable and looking forward to transferring to a health care provider I feel I can trust.
Absolutely wonderful visit! Everyone was very professional and helpful during my visit. Andy is my favorite hygienist and is as gentle as can be! Dr. Baker's expertise is top notch and it is obvious he cares for his patients. Wonderful office!
Best dental office I've ever been to. Dr. Baker and his staff were all extremely nice and accommodating. This is the first dental office I've been to that did not try to "up-sell" procedures for more money. They really listened to my concerns and made suggestions based on them instead of immediately saying "you need a root canal
Dr. Baker is very knowledgable, personable & patient. Spent ample time with me & explained everything. His hygienists bent over backwards to make me comfortable. And I had my best teeth cleaning ever. Very thorough!
Everyone in Dr Baker's office is friendly, professional and thorough from the time you walk in until you leave. You are treated with respect and consideration and issues are communicated thoughtfully.
Everyone was caring and professional. I liked the Doctor.
Exemplary staff from front to back. Excellent office ambiance. Dr. Baker is very informative to a course of action concerning the health of your teeth. Kudos I highly recommend this office.
Fantastic office staff. Very welcoming practice. Dr. Baker is very friendly, and makes patients feel comfortable. Highly recommended.
I broke a tooth last night and called the office at 8am this morning. They took me at 9am. Try getting an appointment with any other dentist on short notice like that. Dr. Baker and has staff are second to none. Thanks for the great service you provide.