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
• Correcting abnormal tooth alignment can help prevent certain speech problems
• Straight teeth provide a healthier, more attractive smile
• A beautiful smile increases confidence and self-esteem

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What is an Orthodontic Evaluation?

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

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When should My Child be Evaluated?

If your child develops an "open bite", sucks their thumb, has a noticable tongue thrust, or you are otherwise concerned about the development of your child's teeth, no matter what the age, contact us right away for a consult with Dr. Mel. 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 Retainers?

Once the teeth have been moved into proper position, a retainer is sometimes used to keep the teeth in place until they have "settled". Retainers can be fixed (bonded to the teeth) or removable.

Fixed retainer: Small, thin wire bonded to tongue side of teeth	Adjustable retainer: Snaps into place. Easily adjusted.