Orthodontics
Indications of possible orthodontic problems: Many orthodontic problems are quite complex involving the correction of growth patterns in facial bones and misaligned teeth. The diagnosis and treatment of the problems can be reached through the teamwork of you, your dentist, and orthodontist. Why get braces? There are many reasons why people seek orthodontics. Many get braces because they are unhappy with their current smile and want to improve it. A beautiful smile often will add to one's self-esteem, boost personal confidence and in turn, a sense of well being. People with a great smile will tend to smile more to show off their happiness and enjoyment of life. For other people, their teeth may be causing them functional problems. Overcrowded or too much spacing between your teeth may make it more difficult to talk, eat or clean. In some instances, difficulty in cleaning may lead to tooth decay and gum disease. Other problems may also lead to wearing of teeth, headaches and clenching and grinding of teeth. We will work closely with your dentist and other specialists to best coordinate treatment timing to give you the best results. Braces are designed for both children and adults. We are here to help improve your appearance by creating a beautiful smile that you will carry with you for the rest of life. We make every effort to make your orthodontic care a most pleasant, relaxing, and fun experience. Who Needs Braces? Children The American Association of Orthodontists recommends children have an orthodontic evaluation by age 7 to advise if orthodontic treatment is required and the best time to begin treatment. Problems such as a retruded upper jaw, narrow upper jaw or severe dental protrusion may require early treatment to best utilize the growth potential at the early age. For some, we may simply monitor and refer to extract baby teeth to better guide and prepare the permanent teeth for proper eruption. Other treatment may include appliances to correct early problems such as a thumb habit or tongue thrusting. A space maintainer may also be made to prevent space loss as a result of early baby tooth loss. For many patients at this age, treatment may not be required immediately and will be reevaluated. We will evaluate to determine the best time to begin treatment. For most young patients, treatment will begin when most of the permanent teeth have been erupted so that length of treatment can be reduced. Adults Orthodontic treatment can be done at any age. Dramatic changes in a person's smile and facial profile can be achieved with comprehensive orthodontics. Adults often seek treatment to get a most beautiful, pleasing smile. Approximately one out of five orthodontic patients is over 21. Extraction of permanent teeth or jaw surgery is more often required for adult orthodontic patients with severe problems because their jaws have stopped growing. Pre-existing problems such as periodontal breakdown and bone loss may require periodontal treatment before, during, and/or after orthodontic treatment. In addition, adult orthodontic treatment will also assist dentist in placing implants, crowns and bridges. No matter your orthodontic problems, we are here to give you a beautiful, healthy smile. 
Copyright © 2007 Cross Creek Orthodontics All rights reserved. |
Orthodontic is the branch of dentistry that specializes in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. These irregularities may be inherited or caused by premature loss of primary teeth, dietary disorder, thumb sucking or other conditions. The practice of orthodontics requires skill in the design, application and control of corrective appliances. Orthodontic treatment is done to improve the appearance of teeth and facial features and also to improve the bite. Correcting these orthodontic problems may prevent more serious problems that can develop in later years.