Though an Orthodontist can enhance a smile at any age, there is an optimal time period to begin treatment. Beginning treatment at this time ensures the greatest result and the least amount of time and expense. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that the initial Orthodontic evaluation should occur at the first sign of Orthodontic problems or no later than age 7. At this early age, Orthodontic treatment may not be necessary, but vigilant examination can anticipate the most advantageous time to begin treatment.

Braces aren’t just for children and young people anymore Tooth alignment can be changed at any age if your gums and bone structure are healthy. We offer a variety of treatments that are designed for different age groups – including adults. A new smile can begin today.

Orthodontic treatment at later stages in life can dramatically improve your personal appearance and self-esteem. Improving the health of your teeth and gums is equally important. Crooked teeth and a bad bite can contribute to gum and bone loss, tooth decay, abnormal wear of the tooth enamel and surfaces, headaches and jaw joint (TMJ/TMD) pain.

Good news! The new techniques and appliances we use greatly reduce discomfort levels, decrease the frequency of visits, shorten treatment time and may allow you to choose from several options. Your options may include silver and gold stainless steel braces and ceramic cosmetic braces. They are recommended to improve mild cases of misaligned teeth.

During the initial examination, we will be able to determine the best possible treatment for your individual needs. During this initial examination, we can outline the treatment plan, time of treatment expected and the approximate cost.

Many of our patients are adults, and they agree that it’s never too late to improve their greatest asset – their smile.

Brush your teeth after meals and snacks

Brush in a circular motion above and below the braces to remove any food stuck on the braces.

Turn your toothbrush in a 45 degree angle to remove any excess food above the braces.

Turn your toothbrush the opposite direction, between and under the braces.

Brush the chewing surfaces of your teeth.

Brush the tongue side of your teeth until they are sparkling clean.

When we remove your braces, we will begin the retention stage of your treatment. Your final orthodontic result depends on your retainers, so follow through with the hard work you’ve put in so far. Remember to remove your retainer before brushing, and brush your retainer before placing it back in your mouth.

Retainers support your teeth in their correct positions and guide the teeth into a more natural position after braces. Your retainers must be worn as directed. If any problems develop, call for an EXTRA appointment. If possible DO NOT wait until your regular appointment to have repairs.

In most cases, retainers are worn 12- 24 hours a day 7 days a week for the first year that your braces are removed. Then you gradually cut back to nights only. Failure to wear retainers as directed, even for a short period of time, may cause a rapid change in your teeth positioning. Please follow homecare instructions listed below to maintain satisfactory results.

At first, you may notice a “plastic taste”. This will disappear in a day or two. You may also experience some difficulty in speech for the first two to three days. Your speech will return to normal if you read aloud to yourself.