Better Function. Better Smile. Better Health

Orthodontic Services

 

We offer a variety of orthodontic services so you may have some options in your or your children's orthodontic treatment. All the different types of treatment have the same goal in mind: to give the patient a very aesthetically-pleasing smile and functionally stable occlusion (bite). We think it is also very important that our orthodontic patients have a voice in choosing the type of treatments available for their particular oral conditions. 

  • Myofunctional Orthodontics : ALF and Myobrace
  • Clear Aligners
  • Esthetic Ceramic Braces
  • Traditional Metal Braces
  • For both children and adults

Our Philosophy—Aesthetic Follows Function

 

Functional Othodontics/Orthopedics is a philosophy. Actual treatment using this philosphy, involves more than giving a patient a particular appliance to wear. The goals of functional orthodontics & orthopedics include well developed arches, properly positioned mandible (lower jaw), and correct vertical dimension (think beautifully balanced smile vs. deep overbites and "buck teeth"). All of these orthodontic and orthopedic components affect the face!

Functional orthodontics aims to treat problems in a non-surgical and non-extraction method. Functional and skeletal problems such as oral habits, airway issues, and skeletal discrepancies are addressed at an early age (6-9 years). This is sometimes referred to as Phase 1 of treatment. Actual tooth alignment with braces (although in some cases can be done with other functional appliances) is considered a finishing technique or Phase 2. This can be completed once the permanent teeth are in (age 12-15).

An accurate diagnosis is essential. Timing of treatment is also important to maximize advantages of the growth and development phases.

Adults may also be treated with functional orthodontics/orthopedics. Of course the advantages of growth and development phases no longer exists but methods to correct skeletal discrepancies, airway obstructions, and poor alignment of teeth. It may take longer and require more diligent wear of retention appliances or even some appropriate restorative treatment to the dentition for maximum esthetic results. 

Myofunctional Orthodontics

Myofunctional orthodontics (Myo=muscle + Functional = the way in which something works) uses the support of the patient's own body and facial muscles--especially the tongue-- to move the teeth naturally into the best position where they can function for breathing, eating, talking, and smiling.

There is no need for excessive force and teeth extraction!

Clear Aligners

To correct malocclusion, a growing number of patients and doctors prefer clear aligners to traditional wires and brackets, due to advantages such as:

  • Nearly-invisible appliances
  • No dietary restrictions
  • No obstructions to flossing or brushing
  • Controlled single-tooth movement
  • Remote monitoring options

Traditional Braces and Ceramic Clear Braces

You may choose traditional braces, or they may be required with more severe cases. This is still a very good option to help you achieve your goals of a healthy, beautiful smile. 

Adults and children also have the option for "clear" braces. More specifically, these are white ceramic braces that are much harder to spot until you are closer to the person. Both are good options! 

Ready to schedule? Have a Question? We can help!

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