Treatment Options
Early Treatment
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children be seen by an orthodontist by age 7. Although most orthodontic treatment is best performed about age 11 or 12, early treatment is very beneficial for certain problems.
When treatment begins early, the orthodontist may be able to guide the growth of the jaw and guide incoming permanent teeth. Early treatment can also regulate the width of the upper and lower dental arches, gain space for permanent teeth, avoid the need for permanent tooth extractions, reduce likelihood of impacted permanent teeth, correct thumb-sucking, and eliminate abnormal swallowing or speech problems. In other words, early treatment can simplify later treatment.
Consultation appointments for children are quick and easy and will give you peace of mind knowing that early intervention can be done if needed. No referral is necessary, just call the office to book a consultation with Dr. Short.
Braces
Thanks to todays technology, patients now have more options when it comes to wearing braces. While metal braces are the most popular choice especially amongst teens, translucent porcelain braces are often a good choice for adults.
Adult Treatment
Thinking of getting braces and looking for adult treatment? The fact is that orthodontic treatment can be successful and rewarding at any age, and adults especially appreciate the benefits of a beautiful smile. A lot of patients who receive orthodontic treatment are over the age of 21. Adults may have experienced some breakdown or loss of their teeth and bone that supports the teeth, and may require periodontal treatment before, during, and/or after orthodontic treatment.
A consultation with Dr. Short can help to answer questions and concerns you may have about adult braces and creating the smile you always wanted and would be proud to show off.
Clear Aligners
Clear Aligners are the clear way to straighten teeth without braces. These aligners are removable and virtually invisible, which means you can straighten your teeth without anyone knowing; and you can still eat and drink what you want. Also, you can brush and floss normally to maintain healthy gums and teeth; and there are no wires, metal or brackets to cause mouth abrasions.
Clear Aligners are a series of clear overlay templates called aligners that have been generated by computer simulation to gradually move the teeth. This system is available to adult patients and some teenagers with certain orthodontic bite problems. Ask us if you are a candidate for the Invisalign System!
Many of our patients had never considered traditional braces but are now happily and comfortably improving their smiles with Clear Aligners.
Benefits of Clear Aligners
- Invisible way to straighten your teeth without braces.
- Series of clear, removable, custom-made Aligners.
- Uses no metal wires or brackets.
- Custom-made for comfort.
How do Clear Aligners work?
- Wear each set of Aligners for about two weeks.
- Remove only to eat, drink, brush and floss.
- Your teeth will move gradually each week.
- Visit us every 8-10 weeks.
- Total treatment time averages 6-15 months.
- Average number of Aligners is between 18 and 30.
Types of braces
Mini-Twin System
The Mini-Twin bracket needs fewer arch-wires over the course of treatment than standard brackets, which increases the overall comfort for the patient. Many patients enjoy its smaller, more compact size, which enables it to be less noticeable, but not less effective. while its profile is up to 30% smaller than its competition, it maintains the standard size for its bracket slots, which enable it to maintain the stability and control so important to the treatment process.
Radiance Plus®
Radiance Plus delivers exceptional results and is the clearest ceramic bracket available. If you’re looking for an option that is less noticeable than standard metal braces, this is a great option for you. Each Radiance Plus bracket is created from a single crystal of pure grown sapphire – one of the hardest materials in nature, second only to diamond.