Orthodontists are qualified dentists, who after graduating from dental school, go on to additional full-time university-based education in an accredited orthodontic residency program supervised by orthodontists. That training lasts at least two academic years-sometimes more. By learning about tooth movement (orthodontics) and guidance of facial development (dentofacial orthopedics), orthodontists are the uniquely trained experts in dentistry to straighten teeth and align jaws. Selecting an orthodontist who is a member of the AAO is your assurance that you have chosen an orthodontist: the dental specialist with at least two years of post-doctoral, advanced specialty training in orthodontics in a university-based program accredited by the American Dental Association. Specialty education includes the study of subjects in biomedical, behavioral and basic sciences; oral biology; and biomechanics. Only orthodontists may be members of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO).

Patients seek orthodontics treatment for many different reasons. The most common reason is to improve the looks of their smile by straightening their teeth. Straight teeth not only look great, but they help an individual to effectively bite, chew, and more easily maintain the health of their teeth. In addition to straightening teeth, orthodontists work to refine the way the upper and lower teeth fit together. By perfecting the fit of the bite, the teeth become more stable. The teeth actually work together to prevent excess wear, and reduce muscular activity in patients prone to muscle related TMD symptoms. In addition, a perfect bite will allow your general dentist room to restore your teeth to ideal form should you need dental work in the future. In addition to improving the teeth and the bite, orthodontic treatment also improves the soft tissue balance of the mid-face bringing the lips into better harmony with other facial features. Straight teeth, a perfect bite, facial balance; it all adds up to an attractive smile. An attractive smile builds confidence and self esteem that can benefit social and career success, as well as improve a person’s general attitude toward life.

The importance of properly timing orthodontic treatment can not be stressed enough. Some situations require care in the early elementary grades (or younger), while others may safely and prudently wait until ages 10-12. Our office recommends that patients be seen initially at age 6-8 (when permanent front teeth start to come in). Normally no treatment will be needed at this time, but, for some patients, beginning care at this age is crucial.

Active treatment times may vary from 4 months to 36 months depending on the treatment goals. Most treatments take 20-24 months depending on the severity of the case, and patient compliance. If early treatment is needed, we try to accomplish our goals in 12 months or less. Once the braces are removed, retainers will be worn full time for 4-6 months, then part-time indefinitely.