Orthodontics – Braces by Denzinger Family Dentistry

Orthodontics and braces are more popular than ever and are available at Denzinger Family Dentistry to patients of all ages. This popularity is due to the overwhelming success of improved treatments and technology. Today, brackets are smaller, more comfortable and more durable than older-style braces. The latest in invisible braces is Invisalign®. Invisalign® uses clear, plastic aligners created from sophisticated 3-D computer imaging technology. They are comfortable, removable and invisible!

Early Orthodontic Treatment and Evaluation

When is the best time to begin orthodontics?

Though the expert care team at Denzinger Family Dentistry can enhance a smile at any age, there is an optimal time period to begin treatment. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that the initial orthodontic evaluation should occur at the first sign of orthodontic problems or no later than age 7. Beginning treatment at the right time ensures the greatest result and the least amount of time and expense. At this early age, orthodontic treatment may not be necessary, but vigilant examination can anticipate the most advantageous time to begin treatment.

What are the benefits of early orthodontic evaluation?

Early orthodontic evaluation provides both timely detection of problems and greater opportunity for more effective treatment with optimal results. Prudent intervention guides growth and development, preventing serious problems or complications later. When orthodontic intervention is not necessary, our team can carefully monitor growth and development and begin treatment when it is ideal.

Why is age 7 considered the optimal time for screening?

By the age of 7, the first adult molars erupt, establishing the back bite. During this time, the Denzinger Family Dentistry team can evaluate front-to-back and side-to-side tooth relationships. For example, the presence of erupting incisors can indicate possible overbite, open bite, crowding or gummy smiles. Timely screening increases the chances for an incredible smile.

What are the advantages of interceptive treatment?

Interceptive treatment is the diagnosis and treatment of the misalignment of your teeth and bite as soon as it is detected. Malocclusions include crooked teeth, overbite, crossbite, crowding, spacing, missing teeth and open bites.  Some of the most direct results of interceptive treatment are:

• Creating room for crowded, erupting teeth
• Creating facial symmetry through influencing jaw growth
• Reducing the risk of trauma to protruding front teeth
• Preserving space for unerupted teeth
• Reducing the need for tooth removal
• Reducing treatment time with braces

Are you a candidate for orthodontic treatment?

Orthodontics is not merely for improving the aesthetics of the smile; orthodontic treatment improves bad bites (malocclusions). Malocclusions occur as a result of tooth or jaw misalignment. Malocclusions affect the way you smile, chew, clean your teeth or feel about your smile.

Why should malocclusions be treated?

According to studies by the American Association of Orthodontists, untreated malocclusions can result in a variety of problems. Crowded teeth are more difficult to properly brush and floss, which may contribute to tooth decay and/or gum disease. Protruding teeth are more susceptible to accidental chipping. Crossbites can result in unfavorable growth and uneven tooth wear. Openbites can result in tongue-thrusting habits and speech impediments. Ultimately, orthodontics does more than make a pretty smile – it creates a healthier you.

Are there any new treatments I should be aware of?

Myofunctional therapy is an exercise-based treatment that helps the tongue rest in the right position while allowing the mouth to stay closed. Denzinger Family Dentistry offers the only myofunctional therapy room in the area. Improper tongue positioning can result in habitual nasal breathing or oral breathing. As the muscles of the mouth and jaw adapt to the disordered breathing pattern, an abnormal bite may develop. This problem may lead to difficulties in biting, chewing, swallowing and digesting food. While orthodontics can resolve these problems, myofunctional therapy can eliminate many of the causes of swallowing abnormalities and improper rest posture of the tongue. The therapy works for children and adults, is painless and the exercises are relatively simple.

Adult Treatment

Braces aren’t just for kids anymore. Tooth alignment can be changed at any age if your gums and bone structure are healthy. We offer a variety of treatments that are designed for different age groups – including adults. A new smile can begin today.

Orthodontic treatment at later stages in life can dramatically improve your personal appearance and self-esteem. Improving the health of your teeth and gums is equally important. Crooked teeth and a bad bite can contribute to gum and bone loss, tooth decay, abnormal wear of the tooth enamel and surfaces, headaches and jaw joint (TMJ/TMD) pain.

Good news! The new techniques and appliances we use greatly reduce discomfort levels, decrease the frequency of visits, shorten treatment time and may allow you to choose from several options. Your options may include metal braces, translucent braces or transparent aligners that can be worn at night to improve mild cases of misaligned teeth.

During the initial examination, we will be able to determine the best possible treatment for your individual needs. During this initial examination, we can outline the treatment plan, time of treatment expected and the approximate cost.

A large percentage of our patients are adults, and they agree that it’s never too late to improve their greatest asset – their smile.

Invisalign®

Invisalign® is the clear way to straighten teeth without braces, using aligners. Aligners are removable and virtually invisible, which means you can straighten your teeth without anyone knowing; and you can still eat and drink what you want. Also, you can brush and floss normally to maintain healthy gums and teeth; and there are no wires, metal or brackets to cause mouth abrasions.

Many of our patients had never considered traditional braces but are now happily and comfortably improving their smiles with Invisalign®.

How Does Invisalign Work?

• Wear each set of aligners for about two weeks.
• Remove only to eat, drink, brush and floss.
• Your teeth will move gradually each week.
• Visit us every four to eight weeks.
• Best of all, your total treatment time averages only six to 15 months.

Get Started Today!

Call us at 812-941-1400 or fill out the contact form at right.