Orthodontics

What is Orthodontics?

When describing orthodontics, most people just refer to braces. While the majority of orthodontic cases involve braces, there are alternatives that may be used for younger children or adults. Arch expanders for younger children can minimize or eliminate the need for braces when the problem is treated early enough.

Invisalign clear plastic retainers instead of braces, can be used by adults for mild to moderate crowding problems.

What are the Benefits of Orthodontics?

Reduce the risk of injury - prominent teeth are more prone to trauma
Reduce the risk of decay - crooked teeth are harder to clean
Reduce the risk of developing TMJ problems
Eliminate the excessive wear on your teeth that can be caused by a poorly aligned bite
Straight teeth provide a healthier, more attractive smile
A beautiful smile increases your confidence and self-esteem

What is an Orthodontic Evaluation?

Orthodontic treatment with braces begins with an evaluation appointment. Dr. Reese will first visually determine if you are a good candidate for orthodontic treatment, or if another treatment would be more appropriate. If you are a good candidate for orthodontic treatment, Dr. Reese will take impressions of your teeth, special x-rays of your jaw joint, head and very important measurements of your teeth and mouth.

Next is a consulting appointment to discuss the treatment plan. The treatment plan is based on the records taken at the evaluation. The consult includes:

Specific treatment recommendation
Expected length of treatment
Expected cost of treatment

When should My Child be Evaluated?

If your child develops an "open bite," or you are otherwise concerned about the development of your child's teeth, no matter what the age, contact us right away for a consultation with Dr. Reese. Otherwise, children should be evaluated by the age of 6 for orthodontic treatment. In the past, a child was 11 or 12 before brackets were actually placed on the teeth to straighten them. This may still hold true in most cases, but there are new techniques that can correct problems early, while a child is still growing. This may eliminate the need for braces in the future, or if the child does still need braces, the treatment will be less complicated, usually shortening the period of time in braces.

What is an Arch Expander?

An Arch Expander is one example of orthodontic treatment available for younger patients. Many times an arch expander can be used to create a proper alignment of the arches so permanent teeth have room to erupt in a natural position. The use of an arch expander will generally minimize or eliminate the need for braces when the patient gets older.

What are Braces?

Braces are retainers, bonded brackets, arch wires and elastic bands that move crowded or spaced teeth into a "normal" position for appearance, prevention and function. Patients with poorly aligned teeth tend to have much more tooth decay, gum disease and jaw joint problems. Recently invented brackets and new techniques make orthodontic treatment faster and more comfortable than ever.


metal brackets	white brackets	colored bands

How do Braces work?

Over a period of time, teeth will shift if constant, gentle pressure is applied. Brackets are bonded to the front surface of each tooth and wires are attached to the brackets with elastic bands. The slight tension on the wire is gently transferred to the bracket through the elastic band.

See case studies below.

Are Braces Only for Kids?

Adults are finding that having braces isn't kid stuff anymore. Many adults are turning to braces to correct problems with their bite. They recognize the benefits of reduced wear, reduced incidence of TMJ problems, and increased self-esteem. Major adjustments must be done with braces, but some adjustments can actually be done without braces!

The Latest Trend in Orthodontics is No Braces at All!

Adult "invisible braces" (which are not really braces at all, but clear plastic retainers) are a new technique for adults to obtain the results of braces without wearing braces! This technique, which is effective only for mild to moderate crowding, utilizes a series of retainers (computer generated or lab constructed) that are worn sequentially until the desired correction is achieved.

She's wearing "invisible braces" in one of these two photos. Can you tell which one? It's difficult to tell, isn't it? That's the whole point!

Please Contact Us if you would like more information sent to you.

Case Studies

Case 1: Adult Orthodontics with implant replacement of long standing missing lower molars.

The overjet, discrepancy of upper to lower teeth was corrected to improve speech and smile. Whitening was done after orthodontia. Missing teeth were replaced with free standing implants once the adjacent teeth were straightened to allow room for tooth replacement and proper occlusion.


Before	After

Before	After

Case 2: Adult Orthodontics to improve smile and correct misaligned teeth.

TMJ pain had existed previously, and has subsided with correction of malocclusion.


Before	After

Before	After

Before	After

Case 3: Adult Orthodontics: ceramic braces used to minimize the appearance of 'braces'

Misalignment / crowding of upper and lower teeth were addressed to dramatically improve the smile. Whitening was also done to brighten the shade of all the teeth.


Before	After

Before	After

Case 4:

This young girl demonstrates the potential treatment results and benefits using combined orthopedic and orthodontic treatment modalities. The before treatment photos demonstrate the discrepancy between the upper and lower teeth, and inability to chew or bite with the classic 'buck teeth' appearance. The severe overbite was treated with a removable appliance to improve the lower jaw position which results in an improved facial appearance from one with the appearance of 'no chin' to one of facial balance and harmony. The teeth were subsequently aligned with conventional braces, which did not require extraction of any permanent teeth, nor was the use of 'headgear' needed.


Before	After

Before	After

Case 5:

Severe overbite, buck tooth syndrome, also corrected with combined orthopedic and orthodontic care. No extractions, no headgear needed. Less time in 'braces' needed and a pleasing smile and facial profiles result.


Before	After

Case 6:

This 40 yr. old woman wanted to have her life long 'gap' or diastema closed but didn't want her teeth altered in any way. Veneers were an option but it would have required a minimal alteration to the existing teeth which the patient wanted to avoid. After discussing the options, she elected for orthodontic care with 'ceramic braces' which are tooth colored to close the space and align the teeth, followed by whitening of the upper and lower teeth.
Another option, available today, would be the 'braceless' Invisalign treatment option.


Before	After

© Copyright 2002- Dental WebSmith, Inc. and Ted Reese, DDS. All rights reserved. Disclaimer: The information provided within is intended to help you better understand dental conditions and procedures. It is not meant to serve as delivery of medical or dental care. If you have specific questions or concerns, contact your health care provider.