Orthodontics
Early Treatment
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. Although it is best to begin treatment after all of the permanent teeth erupt, in some cases, early treatment may be necessary. Early evaluation provides both timely detection of problems and greater opportunity for more effective treatment. Prudent intervention guides growth and development, preventing serious problems later.
Early treatment may help prevent the risk of trauma to protruding front teeth, abnormal wear of the teeth and jaw disproportion. Dr. Tracy Paul can also examine your child's bite for the presence of crossbites, underbites, overbites and severe crowding.
At the complimentary consultation, Dr. Tracy Paul will thoroughly examine your child's facial balance and any other orthodontic concerns. He will also perform a thorough TMJ (temporomandibular joint) examination.
Dr. Paul will then determine if orthodontic treatment is necessary and the best time to initiate it. When orthodontic intervention is not necessary, he can carefully monitor growth and development and begin treatment when it is ideal. If early treatment is necessary, Dr. Paul will explain what orthodontic treatment is needed, the most suitable approach, and the approximate amount of time needed to give your child the best possible smile.
Dr. Paul's friendly staff will give you an estimate treatment fees and also check on your insurance benefits if needed.
Adolescent Treatment
Between the ages of 11 and 15 is the most common time for orthodontic treatment, and for good reasons. By 12, most if not all of the permanent teeth have erupted and are in place, and crooked teeth, gaps and bad bites can easily be detected. These problems will hardly ever correct themselves, so this is when most parents decide to seek orthodontic treatment.
This is also a good time for orthodontic treatment because many negative associations of braces are not present. Many children in this age range undergo orthodontic treatment, and children are very often able to be convinced to wear braces because they see their friends wearing them, too, and want to fit in.
Besides the benefits of fitting in with their friends, children at this age are growing rapidly, and orthodontists can usually take advantage of these growth spurts to help shape the bite and teeth correctly. And children at this age have high metabolisms, which can help shorten overall treatment time and reduce the discomfort of orthodontic treatment.
Following a thorough examination, including a TMJ (temporomandibular joint) evaluation, Dr. Paul will determine if orthodontic treatment is indicated and the best time to begin. Prior to treatment, he will discuss the best treatment approach to improve your child's smile, the length of time needed and treatment fees. Our staff will be glad to check on your insurance benefits if needed.
Adult Treatment
When it comes to achieving a beautiful, confident smile-there is no age limit! Braces aren't just for kids anymore. Tooth alignment can be changed 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. 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 Invisalign® clear aligners or translucent ceramic braces.
During the initial examination, Dr. Paul will thoroughly evaluate facial balance and any orthodontic needs you may have, including an extensive TMJ (temporomandibular joint) evaluation. He will then 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.
A large percentage of our patients are adults, and they agree that it's never too late to improve their greatest asset - their smile.