Braces for Children
Along with the American Association of Orthodontists, we recommend that children receive their first orthodontic screening by the age of 7. By starting treatment early we are able to recognize potential problems early and correct them before they become serious. This not only saves you and your child time, but also money.
Early interceptive orthodontic treatment has proven to be beneficial for the overall desired result. Because a young child’s permanent teeth have not finished erupting, we are able to thoroughly evaluate the front-to-back and side-to-side tooth relationships and address any impending problems at its earliest stage.
Orthodontics for Adults
More and more adults today are seeking orthodontic treatment to improve their smile. In fact, about 33 percent of our patients are adults! We offer a full range of treatments specifically designed for adults, leaving you with a dramatically different smile and healthier bite. From traditional metal braces to inconspicuous ceramic braces to clear aligners that can be worn to improve mild cases of misaligned teeth, we are confident we can help you achieve and maintain the beautiful, healthy smile you’ve always dreamed about.
Goals and Benefits of Treatment
Today, orthodontic treatment is simple, convenient, and affordable for patients of all ages. An attractive smile is just one of the benefits. Orthodontic treatment results in correctly aligned teeth that provide ideal jaw function and a great smile! Plus, your teeth are easier to clean and more resistant to gum disease. One of the most rewarding benefits of orthodontic treatment is the noticeable boost in self-confidence!
How Does Treatment Work?
Each patient’s orthodontic condition requires an individualized treatment plan based on a specialized diagnosis of the case. The treatment process may involve X-rays, dental impressions, and photographs. Braces have one aim: to use gentle biologically-friendly pressure to move teeth and adjacent structures into
proper alignment. Treatment times vary depending on age, patient compliance, and the severity of the condition. Generally, treatment lasts for 18 to 22 months and is facilitated by ideal patient cooperation.
3-D Imaging
We are among the first orthodontic practices in the country to add three-dimensional low-dose x-rays called “cone beam CT scans” to our treatment planning.
We are also one of the first (and maybe the only!) orthodontic practice to have on staff a Registered Radiologic Technologist overseeing all of our x-ray safety and exposure protocols.
3-D imaging dramatically accentuates our ability to diagnose and treat malocclusions. We prescribe its use in full accordance with International Standards. We only use conebeam CT when Dr. Waugh believes that the treatment outcome will be better or that the procedure is needed to provide adequate safe care for the patient.
We are especially proud to use the Kodak 9300 machine, one of the few in the world that subscribes to Principle #9 that states: "CBCT equipment should offer a choice of volume sizes and examinations must use the smallest that is compatible with the clinical situation if this provides less radiation dose to the patient."