Orthodontics is a specialty of dentistry concerned with the alignment of teeth and to improve appearance.
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.
Although patients of any age can benefit from orthodontic braces, they tend to work much quicker on pre-teens and teenagers since they are still experiencing jaw growth. The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that children should first see an orthodontist around the age of seven years-old. An orthodontic examination may be beneficial before age seven if facial or oral irregularities are noted.
Today, an increasing number of adults are choosing to wear clear braces to straighten their teeth and correct malocclusions (bad bites).
Clear braces are a great alternative to metal braces. They are less noticeable than metal braces and are perfect for teens and adults who don't want metal to mar their smiles.
Clear braces are the same size and shape as metal braces, except that they have tooth-colored or clear brackets that blend in to teeth. Some even use tooth-colored wires to be even less noticeable.
Poorly aligned teeth often cause problems speaking, biting and chewing. Most irregularities are genetic or occur as a result of developmental issues. Conversely, some irregularities are acquired or greatly exacerbated by certain habits and behaviors such as:
Orthodontic braces, clear and metal braces are predictable, versatile and incredibly successful at realigning the teeth. Braces work in the same way regardless of the age of the patient, but the treatment time is greatly reduced in patients who are still experiencing jaw growth and have not been affected by gum disease. In short, an adult can experience the same beautiful end results as a teenager, but treatment often takes longer.
Braces consist of bands, wires and/or brackets. Bands are fixed around the teeth or tooth and used as anchors for the appliance, while brackets are bonded to the front of the tooth. Arch wires are passed through the brackets and attached to the bands. Tightening the arch wire puts tension on the teeth, gradually moving them to their proper position. Braces are usually adjusted monthly to bring about the desired results, which may be achieved within a few months to a few years. Today's braces are smaller, lighter and show far less metal than in the past.
We usually recommend braces to improve the patient's:
When children and teenagers are treated, we plan the final outcome to be one of great stability. Many of our patients undergo treatment without the need of extractions, providing a beautiful smile, versus one that is collapsed as seen in treatments done in past decades. This allows for their jaw to have great balance and avoids locking of their jaw. This, in the long run, avoids the occurrence of TMJ problems.
Orthodontics can do so much more that just straighten your teeth. It can help in the treatment of headaches and TMJ problems. Both of these are mainly due to bite irregularities and severe wear, causing many of the muscles of the head to overwork themselves. The consequence is the onset of headache symptoms. Many patients contact us as a last resort to address their problems. As the patient’s bite is reorganized into the right position, muscle strain is alleviated, therefore correcting the source of the headaches.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment with our office if your are considering braces.
Don't hesitate to contact us to discuss any aspect of your dental health - we don't charge for giving advice!
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Greatest dentist and staff ever. Always the best service and care.
I've been seeing Dr. Schott for 14 years. I've moved away from the island, but him and his awesome staff are well worth the hour drive every time!
It's worth my family's hour travel to get the best care. Dr. Schott and his staff are wonderful.
Dr. Schott does excellent and professional dental work. I switched to him from another dentist I had been seeing for 25+ yrs!! His office staff and dental assistant couldn't be nicer... Courteous and oh so friendly!! I will continue to travel out of my way (a half an hour further) for this exceptional team, well worth it!!
Due to my past experiences with dentists I arrived with no expectations. I left with complete and utter satisfaction with the entire experience from start to finish. Everyone here was just wonderful!
Truly gentle dentistry, Dr. Schott is pleasant and personable, as are all the folks on his staff.
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Painless Pete is the best!!!
I really like Dr. Schott and his team. Everyone I have seen is super, nice, and very professional. I just received a new crown and Dr. Schott took care in making it look great. I am loving my renewed smile!