Secrets to Success

Want some tips to make your orthodontic experience easier?

Check out these helpful hints and practical suggestions.

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  See what a difference orthodontia can make!

Not sure about investing your time and money in orthodontic treatment?

These photographs show examples of how straightened teeth and a properly aligned bite can impact your appearance.

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  Frequently Asked Questions

Exactly what is an orthodontist, and how is that different from a dentist?

An orthodontist is a dental specialist who has spent at least two additional years, in a school accredited by the American Dental Association, studying human growth and development, genetics, biophysics, embryology, engineering, and other relevant subjects.

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Most people come to an orthodontist for two reasons: either their dentist has said they have a problem with misaligned teeth or they are concerned about their appearance.

People end up with crooked teeth for a variety of reasons—some genetic, some environmental. While Mother Nature blesses some of us with perfect smiles, others of us are born with small jaws, missing or larger than normal teeth, or involuntary conditions such as premature loss of baby teeth, enlarged adenoids or tonsils, widely spaced teeth, protruding teeth (often called “buck” teeth), an overbite, or an underbite. Habits and behaviors such as thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, bruxism (tooth grinding), and jaw clenching can also interfere with the proper development and formation of teeth. That’s where orthodontics comes in.

The word “orthodontics” comes from the Greek words “orthos,” which means correct, and “dons,” which means tooth. Orthodontic treatment means “correcting teeth.” While an attractive smile is certainly a significant benefit of properly aligned teeth, it is by no means the only reason to consider orthodontia. Common malocclusion (bad bite) problems include excessive wearing down of teeth, difficulty in chewing or eating, strained facial muscles, jaw pain, headache, respiratory complications, speech impediments, halitosis (bad breath), and gum disease. Recent research has even shown a connection between dental health and heart problems. And many people are unaware of the impact orthodontic treatment can have on facial structure and profile. (See our Before and After Pictures page.)

In essence, straightening teeth is done through an extended period of properly applied pressure. As the position of each tooth changes bit by bit, the appliances and devices being used in your treatment process are adjusted to increase, reduce, or maintain that pressure.

While many of our patients come to us through a recommendation from their dentist, a referral is not necessary. If you are unhappy with your smile or are experiencing discomfort or pain when you chew, please feel free to call our office for a consultation.