FIRST
EVALUATION
When is the best time to begin orthodontics?
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.
What are the benefits of early orthodontic evaluation?
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. When
orthodontic intervention is not necessary, an orthodontist can carefully
monitor growth and development and begin treatment when it is ideal.
Why is age 7 considered the optimal time for screening?
By the age of 7, the first adult molars erupt, establishing the
back bite. During this time, an orthodontist can evaluate front-to-back
and side-to-side tooth relationships. For example, the presence of erupting
incisors can indicate possible overbite, open bite, crowding or gummy
smiles. Timely screening increases the chances for an incredible smile.
What are the advantages of interceptive treatment?
Some of the most direct results of interceptive treatment are:
- creating room for crowded, erupting teeth
- creating facial symmetry through influencing jaw growth
- reducing the risk of trauma to protruding front teeth
- preserving space for unerupted teeth
- reducing the need for tooth removal
- reducing treatment time with braces
Are you a candidate
for orthodontic treatment?
Orthodontics are not merely for improving the aesthetics of the
smile; orthodontic treatment improves bad bites (malocclusions). Malocclusions
occur as a result of tooth or jaw misalignment. Malocclusions affect the
way you smile, chew, clean your teeth or feel about your smile.
Why should malocclusions be treated?
According to studies by the American Association of Orthodontists,
untreated malocclusions can result in a variety of problems. Crowded teeth
are more difficult to properly brush and floss, which may contribute to
tooth decay and/or gum disease. Protruding teeth are more susceptible
to accidental chipping. Crossbites can result in unfavorable growth and
uneven tooth wear. Openbites can result in tongue-thrusting habits and
speech impediments. Ultimately, orthodontics does more than make a pretty
smile—it creates a healthier you.
DEVELOPMENTAL
CARE
The Two
Phases of Treatment
Phase
One: Interceptive care helps provide adequate space for permanent teeth,
helps align permanent front teeth and improves the bite.
Phase Two: Braces
finish the alignment of both jaws and remaining permanent teeth for a
healthy attractive smile.
A specialized process that encompasses tooth straightening, jaw and facial
improvements is accomplished in two phases. In many cases, Two Phase Treatment
can have a dramatic effect on skeletal change and can save permanent teeth.
Before Two Phase Treatment techniques were developed, children began orthodontic
treatment with full braces after the complete eruption of permanent teeth.
Skeletal problems were left untreated, which later compromised the final
result. Without the first phase of treatment, it was extremely difficult
to align the upper and lower jaws so that they fit together; the skeletal
discrepancy was not functionally healthy or stable. Therefore, otherwise
preventable adult tooth extraction or jaw surgery was required.
Phase One of Two Phase Treatment is interceptive care. Treatment occurs
during a young child’s active growth years, before skeletal problems
are firmly set. Treatment plans are designed to guide and enhance a child’s
own natural growth to establish proper upper and lower jaw development.
An upper or lower jaw that is growing too much or not enough or is too
wide or too narrow can be discovered when a child is very young. Because
they are growing rapidly, children can benefit enormously from orthopedic
(“bone” correction) orthodontic treatment. Early childhood
is also an ideal time to treat aesthetic concerns that may have an impact
on a young child’s self-esteem. Phase One therapy rarely extends
longer than 12 months.
Phase Two of treatment follows after most of the permanent teeth have
erupted. The second phase of treatment finishes the alignment of both
the jaws and permanent teeth for proper function and excellent aesthetics. This second phase may last 6 to 24
months depending on the child’s growth and development and the complexity
of the treatment.
ADULT
ORTHODONTICS
Even
if you missed the chance to have orthodontic treatment as a child, it
is never too late to have a perfect, healthy smile. More adults are seeking
orthodontic treatment than ever before. An attractive smile is an asset,
which will help you in both your personal and professional life. It is
one of the best investments you can make for your self-confidence and
your health.
New orthodontic treatments are constantly being developed. Today’s
braces are smaller, more cosmetically pleasing, more resilient and more
comfortable than the appliances used
in past years. New materials have been developed so that treatment time
is minimized. You can choose between clear, silver and gold braces. In
some instances, removable appliances may be used to move teeth. The opportunity
to have the smile you want is here and now!
APPLIANCE
CHOICES
Metal
Braces
Metal braces are the most common type. They are made of high grade stainless
steel. Today's metal braces are smaller, comfortable and attractive. Reichheld
Ting Orthodontics uses an incredibly specialized bracket that decreases
friction, allowing a significantly increased comfort level and decreased
treatment time.
Ceramic
Braces
Ceramic braces are made of translucent (clear) material. They are most
popular with adult patients, due to their cosmetic appeal.
Gold
Braces
Gold braces are stainless steel braces coated with 24-karat gold and are
popular with patients of all ages.
The Invisalign System is a series of clear overlay templates—called aligners—that have been generated by computer simulation to gradually move the teeth. This system is available to adults and teenagers with certain orthodontic bite problems. Ask us if you are a candidate for the Invisalign system.
The Doctors of Reichheld Ting Orthodontics have been recognized as an Invisalign Premier Provider, placing them among the top five percent of Invisalign practitioners in North America.
"Premier Provider status indicates to our patients and to the community that not only are we among the most experienced Invisalign practices in the country, but we are also committed to staying current with the latest Invisalign treatment techniques," said Dr. Reichheld.
For more information on Invisalign, click here.
O-RING COLORS
Your braces can be aesthetically enhanced
with different color O-rings. These will be changed at each visit so you
can always stay in style. Gray, gold or clear O-rings are also available
to cosmetically blend with your braces.
Back
to top
To view printable pdf files.
| Separators/Spacers Separators are little rubber elastics which fit in between your back teeth. They gently open small spaces between these teeth so that bands can be placed at your next visit. Your teeth may be sensitive. Any discomfort should disappear in a few days. To relieve any soreness, Tylenol or what you normally take for a headache would be fine. Foods that are sticky or chewy like gum should be avoided. Please continue to brush regularly and floss only between teeth that do not have separators in them. If a separator happens to fall out, don’t worry, enough space has been made. If you have any questions, please call during our regular office hours. A lost separator does not have to be replaced. Click here to download a printable pdf file of these instructions. |
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 Click on image to see how a rubber elastic is inserted between teeth to open a small space. |
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| Palatal Expander
The palatal expander is used to widen your narrow top jaw. It is usually painless, but some pressure may be felt as the expander is activated. 1. Your appliance needs to be activated each a day, for the number of turns you have been instructed to apply. a. Insert the key into the hole in the middle of the appliance. b. Gently and steadily push the key toward the back of your mouth. Push it as far back as possible. c. Remove the key towards the back of your throat trying not to pull forward which would reverse the previous turn!
2. You will experience a tingling sensation around your nose for a minute. 3. After several turns (or after several days), you may notice a space between your front teeth. This is a good sign!! This is only temporary and will be closed. 4. Be sure to keep your appliance free of food particles. a. You can do this by brushing your appliance while you brush your teeth, by directing your toothbrush towards the roof of your mouth. b. Rinsing with a glass of water will also help loosen food particles which my become lodged on the top of your expander. 5. If at any time you experience discomfort that does not go away or if your appliance becomes loose, please call the office. 6. If for any reason you cannot keep your scheduled appointment, do not activate your appliance beyond the instructed number of turns. Click here to download a printable pdf file of these instructions.
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Click on image to see how the expander gradually widens your top jaw. |
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| Elastics
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Teeth move best when elastics are worn consistently. Click on the top movie to see how teeth will move when elastics are worn 24/7. Click on the bottom movie to see what can happen if elastics are only worn some of the time.
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| Headgear
Some temporary discomfort may be experienced during the first night
or two. Your upper molars may become tender and even seem a little
loose. This is normal and will subside. Remember, DO NOT miss any
days; you can put yourself behind schedule . . . for one day lost
it takes THREE to catch up.
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Click to see how headgear move your teeth into the proper position. |
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Biteplane
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| Lip
Bumper Click here to download a printable pdf file of these instructions.
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Click to see how lip bumper gains space for crowded teeth. |
| Retainers |
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There are 2 kinds of retainers. The one that suits your retention needs best will be used.
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- Is
it required that my family dentist schedule my appointment with the
orthodontist?
- At
what age should I schedule an appointment for an orthodontic screening?
- Will
my teeth straighten out as they grow?
- How
do I schedule an appointment for an initial exam?
- What
will happen at the initial examination appointment?
- What
will I learn from the initial examination?
- Will
I need to have teeth extracted for braces?
- How
long will it take to complete treatment?
- How
much will braces cost? Are financing options available? How does my
insurance work?
- How
often will I have appointments?
- Can
I schedule all of my appointments after school?
- Can
I drop my child off for an appointment?
- Do
braces hurt?
- Can
I return to school the day I receive my braces?
- Do
you give shots?
- Do
you use recycled braces?
- Can
I still play sports?
- Do
I need to see my family dentist while in braces?
- Are
there foods I cannot eat while I have braces?
- How
often should I brush my teeth while in braces?
- What
is an emergency appointment? How are those handled?
- Can
orthodontic correction occur while a child has baby teeth?
- What
is Phase One (early) Treatment?
- Will
my child need full braces if he/she has Phase One treatment?
- Is
it too late to have braces if I am already an adult?
- Can
I wear braces even though I have crowns and missing teeth?
- Why
should you choose an orthodontic specialist?
1.
Is it required that my family dentist schedule my appointment with the
orthodontist?
No, it is not. Many of our patients are referred by their family
dentist, yet many other patients
take the initiative to schedule an examination
themselves.
Back to FAQ list
2. At what age should I schedule an appointment
for an orthodontic screening?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an orthodontic
screening at age 7. By this age, several permanent teeth in most children
have erupted, allowing us to effectively evaluate your orthodontic condition.
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3. Will my teeth straighten out as they
grow?
No, they will not. The space available for the front teeth does not
increase as you grow. In most people, after the permanent molars erupt,
the space available for the front teeth decreases with age.
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4. How do I schedule an appointment for
an initial exam?
If you or your child can potentially benefit from orthodontic treatment,
simply call our office, send us an e-mail
or fill out our appointment
request form online. We will be happy to schedule an appointment for
you. When you call to schedule your appointment, our front office staff
will request some basic information from you.
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5. What will happen at the initial examination
appointment?
Upon arriving, you will be welcomed by our scheduling staff at the
front desk. You will receive a tour of the office by our treatment coordinator.
Digital photographs and a digital X-ray will be taken so the doctor can
evaluate your orthodontic case. Treatment options will be explained, and
all of your questions will be answered. This visit, including radiographs
and photos, is complimentary.
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6. What will I learn from the initial examination?
There are five essential questions that we will cover during the
initial examination:
· Is there an orthodontic problem, and if so, what is it?
· What must be done to correct the problem?
· How long will the treatment take to complete?
· How much will the treatment cost?
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7. Will I need to have teeth extracted
for braces?
Removing teeth is sometimes required to achieve the best orthodontic
result. Straight teeth and a balanced facial profile are the goal of orthodontics.
However, because new technology has provided advanced orthodontic procedures,
removing teeth is not always necessary for orthodontic treatment.
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8. How long will it take to complete treatment?
Treatment time obviously depends on each patient's specific orthodontic
problem. In general, treatment times range from 12 to 30 months. The "average"
time frame a person is in braces is approximately 22 months.
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9. How much will braces cost? Are financing options
available? How does my insurance work?
It is impossible to give an exact cost for treatment until we have
examined you. We will cover the exact cost and financial options during
the initial examination. We have many financing options available to accommodate
your needs, and we will review these with you. We will also review your
insurance policy and help to maximize your benefit and file your claims.
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10. How often will I have appointments?
Appointments are scheduled according to each patient's needs. Most
patients in braces will be seen every 5 to 10 weeks. If there are specific
situations that require more frequent monitoring, we will schedule appointments
accordingly.
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11. Can I schedule all of my appointments after
school?
Unfortunately, we cannot schedule all appointments for students during
after-school hours. However, because most appointments are scheduled 5
to 10 weeks apart, most patients will miss minimal school due to their
orthodontic treatments. We will, however, make a sincere effort to meet
your scheduling needs.
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12. Can I drop my child off for an appointment?
Yes. We understand your busy schedule, and we are happy to help you
make the most of your time. On some occasions, we may request to speak
with a parent when they return, so we ask that parents check in with the
orthodontic assistant before leaving the office.
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13. Do braces hurt?
Generally, braces do not "hurt." After certain visits,
teeth may be sore for a few days. In these situations, pain medications
such as Advil or Tylenol will ease the discomfort. However, after most
visits, patients do not feel any soreness at all! We often remind our
patients, “It does not have to hurt to work!”
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14. Can I return to school the day I receive
my braces?
Yes. There is no reason to miss school because of an orthodontic
appointment.
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15. Do you give shots?
No. Shots are not necessary in orthodontic treatment.
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16. Do you use recycled braces?
Absolutely not! All appliances are new and sterilized. Nothing in
our office is recycled. Ever.
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17. Can I still play sports?
Yes. We recommend a mouth guard for all sports.
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18. Do I need to see my family dentist while
in braces?
Yes! Regular checkups with your family dentist are important while
in braces. Your family dentist will determine the intervals between cleaning
appointments while you are in braces.
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19. Are there foods I cannot eat while I have
braces?
Yes. Once treatment begins, we will explain the complete instructions
and provide a comprehensive list of foods to avoid. Some of those foods
include: ice, hard candy, raw vegetables and all sticky foods (i.e. caramel
and taffy). You can avoid most emergency appointments to repair broken
or damaged braces by carefully following our instructions.
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20. How often should I brush my teeth while in
braces?
Patients should brush their teeth at least four times each day: after
each meal and before going to bed. We will show each patient how to floss
their teeth with braces and may also provide a prescription for a special
fluoride, if necessary.
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21. What is an emergency appointment? How are
those handled?
If your braces are causing extreme pain or if something breaks, you
should call our office. In most cases we can address these issues over
the telephone. If you require an emergency appointment, we will set aside
time for you. Please see “in case of emergency”
for more detailed information.
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22. Can orthodontic correction occur while a
child has baby teeth?
Yes. Some orthodontic problems are significant enough to require
early intervention. However, if a patient is not yet ready for treatment,
we will follow that patient's growth and development until the time is
right for treatment to begin.
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23. What is Phase One (early) Treatment?
Phase One treatment, if necessary, is usually initiated on children
between the ages of 7 and 10. Phase One treatment lasts about 12-21 months.
The primary objective for Phase One treatment is to address significant
problems to prevent them from becoming more severe and to improve self-esteem
and self-image. Phase One Treatment is also known as Developmental or
Interceptive Care. For more information see Developmental
Care.
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24. Will my child need full braces if he/she
has Phase One treatment?
It is best to assume that your child will need full braces even after
Phase One treatment. The period following Phase One treatment is called
the "resting period," during which growth and tooth eruption
are closely monitored. Throughout this period, parents and patients will
be kept informed of future treatment recommendations.
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25. Is it too late to have braces if I am already
an adult?
A surprising percentage of our patients are adults. In fact, 25%
of all orthodontic patients are adults. Health, happiness and self-esteem
are vitally important to adults. No patient is "too old" to
wear braces! For more information see Adult Orthodontics.
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26. Can I wear braces even though I have
crowns and missing teeth?
Yes. A tooth with a crown will move just like a tooth with a simple
filling. When teeth are missing, orthodontic treatment will aid in the
alignment of the remaining teeth.
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27. Why should you choose an orthodontic
specialist?
Teeth, and sometimes entire facial structures, are permanently changed
by orthodontic treatment. It is important that the treatment be appropriate
and properly completed. Orthodontic specialists have extensive and specialized
training that enables them to provide their patients with professional,
personalized treatments.
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