Up-to-Date Orthodontic Treatment...
Technology has made a great impact in many areas of our lives, and orthodontics is no exception. We utilize the most advanced technology to provide you with state-of-the-art care. Utilizing digital equipment systems, a state-of-the-art bracket system, and body-heat activated archwires are just a few of the ways we can offer our patients the most up to date quality care.
We are using the most advanced bracket system available today. Instead of using traditonal braces that require the use of plastic or metal "ties" we have moved forward to a bracket that utilizes a "self-ligation" approach. There is no longer a need to have "ties" to hold or "ligate" the archwire in place. These "ties" actually create fricton in the bracket system causing a less efficient treatment approach.
This revolutionary system allows us to move the teeth in a frictionless environment. What this means to our patients is more efficient as well as more comforable treatment. Lighter, gentler forces can now be used to move the teeth. These lighter forces have been clincally proven to move the teeth in a more biocompatible way. By using more biocompatible forces, not only is the movement healthier, but it also translates to faster treatment time!
When to Begin Orthodontic Treatment...
Knowing when to begin orthodontic treatment is very important and will be a factor in the treatment results. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that the initial orthodontic evaluation should be at the first sign of orthodontic problems but no later than age 7. While treatment may not be necessary then, maintaining patient observation can anticipate the best time to start treatment.
Early Treatment...
Early diagnosis and treatment by an orthodontist can help direct skeletal development and tooth eruption, thereby preventing further problems from occuring. Often early treatment can help eliminate the need for permanent tooth extractions later and can also help in correcting jaw relationships to avoid the potential need for future jaw surgery. It is our goal to reduce the amount of time in braces while providing the optimal results.
Adult Treatment...
About 25% of our patient base is adult and it is growing larger every day due to the advances in esthetics and efficiency. A beautiful smile can significantly improve your appearance, confidence and can even improve the health of your teeth. Crooked teeth can give rise to gum disease, bone loss, decay and cause other related health problems.
New treatments and appliances are available today which can reduce the length of treatment.
Retention...
This stage of treatment begins once the braces are removed. It is of prime importance to be conscientious in this stage of your treatment because the stability of your final result will depend on it. Retention is indefinite and retainers should be maintained for as long as you want to maintain your result.
SEQUENCE OF APPOINTMENTS
Just as no two people are exactly alike, no two treatment programs are exactly alike. Dr. Specht will personally diagnose each patient’s case based on the information gathered during the examination and thorough review of the diagnostic records. Diagnostic records include radiographs, photographs and impressions. The following information will explain the sequence of diagnostic records and the next steps to beginning your orthodontic care with our office.
RADIOGRAPHS/PHOTOGRAPHS
In order to accurately determine where to move each of the teeth within the upper and lower jaws, we need to take a series of photographs and radiographs. Dr. Specht uses this information throughout your treatment as well as during the retention phase.
IMPRESSIONS
Impressions are needed to obtain accurate models of the teeth and the dental arches so that Dr. Specht can measure the teeth and their exact relationships to each other. Impressions are also used to analyze the bite and plan the needed treatment. Impressions are an essential part of providing quality orthodontic care and monitoring the progress of treatment.
THE NEXT STEPS AFTER DIAGNOSTIC RECORDS
TREATMENT PRESENTATION
Before orthodontic treatment begins, a treatment presentation appointment may be needed. This time will be used to confirm the findings of the diagnostic records and discuss the plan for treatment.
“SPACER” APPOINTMENT
Before orthodontic appliances are placed, a small amount of space is needed between the back teeth for fitting bands. We will place “spacers” (“separators”) between the teeth that will need bands. There are two types of spacers that may be used: rubber bands or small springs. Spacers may cause some discomfort as they begin moving the teeth apart, similar to the feeling of a nut or piece of dental floss caught between your teeth. You may take a mild pain reliever if needed. Typically, spacers stay in place for 7-14 days, or until your banding appointment. During this time, remember to continue brushing thoroughly. Spacers have a tendency to attract food particles. Avoid using dental floss in these areas and stay away from anything sticky or chewy (gum, caramels, taffy) that might pull the spacer out prematurely.
PLACEMENT OF BRACES OR APPLIANCES
At this appointment we will place the recommended braces or appliances that were discussed at the exam and treatment presentation appointments. It is very important to us that you have a complete understanding of what your appliances will accomplish and how they should be cared for once you leave our office. Keeping your teeth and gums clean during your orthodontic treatment is extremely important and you will receive a “care kit” with instructions regarding the proper way to brush and floss.
