Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics

Orthodontists are qualified dentists, who after graduating from dental school, go on to additional full-time education in an accredited orthodontic residency program supervised by orthodontists. That training lasts at least two academic years—sometimes three or more. By learning about tooth movement (orthodontics) and guidance of facial development (dentofacial orthopedics), orthodontists are the uniquely trained experts in dentistry to straighten teeth and align jaws.

Orthodontists diagnose, prevent and treat dental and facial irregularities. Orthodontists treat a wide variety of malocclusions (improperly aligned teeth and/or jaws). Today, gifted orthodontists shape dazzling smiles while creating optimal form and function.

Orthodontics is devoted to building beautiful smiles by bringing teeth, lips, and jaws into proper alignment. Straight teeth function better, are easier to clean, and are more likely to last your lifetime. Children, teenagers, young adults, middle-aged men and women, seniors – all are taking advantage of the simplicity that distinguishes today’s orthodontics.

There are orthodontic solutions for every lifestyle and budget. Fees for orthodontic care vary with the complexity and the technique used in each treatment

Your orthodontist can improve most tooth and jaw alignment problems at any age. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children see an orthodontist no later than age seven.

Early Warning Signs Indicating it is Time for an Orthodontic Exam:

• Early or late loss of baby teeth
• Difficulty in chewing or biting
• Mouth breathing
• Finger sucking or other oral habits
• Crowding, misplaced, or blocked-out teeth
• Jaws that shift, make sounds, protrude or retrude
• Speech difficulty
• Biting the cheek or biting into the roof of the mouth
• Protruding teeth
• Teeth that meet in an abnormal way or don’t meet at all
• Facial imbalance or asymmetry
• Grinding or clenching of teeth