Orthodontics is the branch of dental care that specializes in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities using corrective devices such as braces. Orthodontic treatment corrects the alignment of teeth, jaws and lips and prevents physical health problems such as tooth decay, gum disease, bone destruction and chewing and digestive difficulties. Orthodontic treatment results in improved self esteem, health benefits and a gorgeous smile.

Orthodontic problems, also referred to as malocclusion, meaning “bad bite”, includes missing teeth, extra teeth, jaws which are out of alignment and crowded teeth. Most of these type problems are inherited but some can present as the result of an accident, thumb sucking, losing baby teeth later in the child’s life.

The ideal age for starting orthodontic treatment ranges from three to twelve years of age. It is important that an orthodontic dentist evaluate your child at an early age. Orthodontic treatment will be shorter than an adults’ because the bone around a young child’s teeth and the jaw bones can still be molded by dental braces as the child continues to grow. Orthodontic braces can also help to correct continued thumb and finger sucking, or the use of a pacifier.

Adults should give serious consideration to orthodontic treatment even though the growth period of the facial bones is no longer a factor and jaw bones might have to be altered through surgery. Adult orthodontics can correct gum disease and bone loss which, left untreated, will eventually lead to tooth loss. Orthodontic treatment in adults can also correct chewing and digestive difficulties. Sometimes orthodontic braces are used as the end treatment for TMJ in adults and children as well. This TMJ treatment requires using orthodontic braces to move and stabilize the jaw in a new position thus reducing pressure and pain.

As ongoing care and maintenance, orthodontic retainers are used to hold the patient’s teeth in place after their braces have been removed. The orthodontic retainer holds the teeth in place as the gums and bones adjust around them. Orthodontists usually recommend that children, especially teenagers, wear their orthodontic retainers into their early twenties.

The average treatment time is about 24 months but will vary with each patient. Keep in mind the severity of the problem, the general health of the teeth, gums and supporting bone. Also a factor in the length of time for treatment is the commitment from the patient in following instructions and following general dental health care.

There are several types of orthodontic braces which are used to relocate teeth including Damon brackets, ceramic brackets, Invisalign (clear) braces and metal braces. Our orthodontist will advise you after evaluating your dental care needs. These orthodontic braces are bonded to the teeth, with the exception of the Invisalign braces, and wires are threaded through the brackets.

Typically, the price range for orthodontic treatment depends on the severity of the problem, the type of braces used, and the required length of treatment. You should plan on a typical range of $1700 to $7000. Our knowledgeable patient concierges will work with you in selecting one of our financial plans to fit your budget.