We consider it a privilege that you have chosen our practice for your orthodontic care. You can expect excellence from Dr. Sheer and our entire orthodontic staff in a warm and comfortable environment. We understand the importance of choosing an office that truly cares about the quality of the orthodontic services it provides. Since each smile is unique, we enjoy getting to know the person behind the smile. Your smile is the signature of our reputation, and we welcome you to our practice!
Initial Orthodontic Consultation
We look forward to meeting you on your first visit to our office. Your first orthodontic treatment visit is complimentary, and Dr. Sheer will complete a thorough exam of your teeth, bite, and jaw joints. He will explain his findings, make recommendations on how to correct your specific orthodontic problem, and answer any questions you may have. This visit will determine if this is the proper time to begin treatment.
Generally, orthodontic patients will fall into one of these two categories:
-
Active orthodontic treatment is necessary and can be started in the near future. Diagnostic records are performed using state-of-the-art technology with iTero Intraoral Scanning. These digital images replace traditional impressions.
- Benefits of early treatment for those patients who have clear indications for early intervention include:
- Influence jaw growth in a positive manner.
- Harmonize the width of the dental arches.
- Improve eruption patterns.
- Lower risk of trauma to protruded upper incisors.
- Correct harmful oral habits.
- Improve aesthetics and self-esteem.
- Simplify and/or shorten treatment time for later corrective orthodontics.
- Reduce the likelihood of impacted permanent teeth.
- Improve some speech problems.
- Preserve or gain space for erupting permanent teeth.
- Benefits of early treatment for those patients who have clear indications for early intervention include:
- Recall examinations: checking on the patient from time to time as the permanent teeth come in, and the jaws and face continue to grow until the necessary treatment time is reached.
Orthodontic Treatment
Early Treatment
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends all children get a check-up with an orthodontic specialist no later than age 7.
ADVANTAGES OF EARLY TREATMENT
- Orthodontists can spot subtle problems with jaw growth and emerging teeth while some baby teeth are still present.
- While your child’s teeth may appear to be straight, there could be a problem that only an orthodontist can detect.
- A check-up may reveal that your child’s bite is fine. Or, the orthodontist may identify a developing problem but recommend monitoring the child’s growth and development and then, if indicated, begin treatment at the appropriate time for the child. In other cases, the orthodontist might find a problem that can benefit from early treatment.
- Early treatment may prevent or intercept more serious problems from developing and may make treatment at a later age shorter and less complicated. In some cases, the orthodontist will be able to achieve results that may not be possible once the face and jaws have finished growing.
- Early treatment may give your orthodontist the chance to: Guide jaw growth, Lower the risk of trauma to protruded front teeth, Correct harmful oral habits, Improve appearance, Guide permanent teeth into a more favorable position, and Create a more pleasing arrangement of teeth, lips, and face.
- Through an early orthodontic evaluation, you’ll be giving your child the best opportunity for a healthy, beautiful smile.
Adult Treatment
It is never too late to be your best, and braces are not just for kids anymore. A consultation with Dr. Sheer is the best way to determine if you can benefit from orthodontic treatment. Generally, teeth can be straightened at any age if your gums and bone structure are healthy. Orthodontic treatment at later stages in life can dramatically improve your personal appearance and self-esteem.
Improvement in the health of your teeth and gums is equally important. Crowded teeth and a bad bite can contribute to gum and bone loss, abnormal wear of the tooth enamel and surfaces, tooth decay, and sometimes jaw joint pain. The good news is that there are new techniques and materials available today. There are several options available–metal braces or translucent braces, and even transparent aligners that can be worn to improve mild cases of misaligned teeth.
Thanks to today’s smaller, less visible, more comfortable brackets, adults are finding braces more appealing. A large percentage of our patients are adults, and they agree it is never too late to improve their greatest asset–their smile.
Retention
The retention phase of treatment comes after your braces, aligners, or other orthodontic appliances have completed tooth movements. Follow these important tips to protect your hard work and investment made during your active treatment.
- Wear your retainers as Dr. Sheer has instructed.
- Take your retainers out when eating, and always put retainers in their case! (Most appliances are lost in schools or restaurants).
- Clean retainers thoroughly once a day with a toothbrush. Brushing retainers removes plaque and eliminates odors. Efferdent or other orthodontic appliance cleaners can be used, but do not take the place of brushing.
- When retainers are not in your mouth, they should ALWAYS be in a retainer case. Pets love to chew on them!
- Initially, you may find it difficult to speak. Practice speaking, reading, or singing out loud to get used to them faster.
- Retainers are breakable, so treat them with care. If your retainers are lost or broken, call us immediately.
- ALWAYS bring your retainers to your appointments.
- Keep retainers away from hot water, pockets, the washing machine, hot cars, and napkins.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best age for orthodontic treatment?
Orthodontic treatment usually begins between the ages of 9 and 14. This is because kids in this age range have a mix of baby and adult teeth, making it easier to correct certain issues. However, it’s more common today for orthodontists to recommend interventions for children as young as 6 or 7 to address developing issues. Adults can also benefit from options like braces or clear aligners.
Is 30 too old for braces?
Age 30 is not too old for braces. Many adults choose to straighten their teeth later in life for both cosmetic and functional reasons. Many adults decide to undergo orthodontic treatment. The main factor is the health of your gums, bone, and teeth. If those are in good condition, braces can be an option regardless of age. Moreover, with advancements in orthodontic technology, various options are available, such as clear aligners that are discreet and convenient.
How long do you need braces for mild crowding?
For mild crowding, patients typically need braces for a shorter duration, ranging from 6 to 12 months. However, the exact time can depend on the individual’s response to treatment and the type of braces they choose. It is important to consult with an orthodontist who can evaluate your case and provide a more accurate estimate of the treatment duration.
Do braces take longer when older?
Braces may take longer to achieve desired results in adults than in children or teenagers. As we age, our bones become denser, and our tissues are less shapeable. This means adjusting the teeth’s position can be slower for adults. While kids and teens often have braces for around 1 to 2 years, adults might wear them for up to 3 years or longer.
How painful is jaw surgery for overbite?
Oral or maxillofacial surgeons usually perform jaw surgery for an overbite under general anesthesia. As a result, there is no pain during the surgery. After the anesthesia wears off, however, it is normal for patients to experience pain for a few days. Your surgeon will usually prescribe pain medication to help manage this initial discomfort. Jaw discomfort is normal, and it responds well to pain medication.
How long does the retention phase last?
The retention phase after braces or orthodontic treatment usually lasts at least six months to one year. However, retention is an ongoing process. Many orthodontists recommend wearing retainers for an extended period, such as several years or even indefinitely. The specific duration of the retention phase can vary. It can depend on individual factors such as initial dental issues, age, stability of the teeth, and bite alignment.