The Damon System bracket is self-ligating, so it eliminates the need for elastic ties to keep the wire in. Without a tie, the braces stay clean and friction is reduced, allowing your treatment to progress more efficiently and with less discomfort along the way.
Damon System braces are available with both a metal and a clear option.
Surgical orthodontics is a combined treatment by our doctors and an oral surgeon to correct jaw abnormalities. These issues are determined after reviewing the patient’s X-rays and models.
The orthodontist initially levels and aligns the teeth in the jawbone, then the oral surgeon positions the jaws into a more normal position to allow the bite to come together ideally. This procedure results in the improved ability to chew, speak, and breathe, while also delivering tremendous facial aesthetics.
We embrace the latest in orthodontic technologies to reduce the overall need for this method, however it can still be required in those with improper bites, as well as those with facial aesthetic concerns. All growth must be complete before jaw surgery can be performed (jaw growth is usually complete by 16 years with girls and 18 with boys), however it is very common to begin correcting tooth position while a patient is still growing.
The temporomandibular joint connects the jaw to the skull. Pain in this area is characterized as Temporomandibular Disorder. This joint is similar to many others in the body, and as such, is susceptible to conditions like ankylosis, arthritis, and dislocations.
TMD Symptoms Include:
Should you notice any of these symptoms, please contact our office. Our specialists can diagnose and provide you with treatment options.
Ever wanted to get beautiful, straight teeth – without braces? Invisalign may be right for you.
Invisalign offers a cutting-edge approach to orthodontics by using a series of custom-made, invisible aligners. Using 3-D computer imaging, each aligner is created specific to your teeth and gradually and gently shifts your teeth into place. The best part about the whole process is that most people won’t even know you are wearing the aligners. So you can smile with confidence, both during and after your treatment.
There are no metal brackets or wires to tighten. The clear aligners are virtually invisible to other people so no one will notice you are wearing the aligners. The aligners are also removable, which means you can eat what you want, brush your teeth with ease and floss with no problems. With the complete, virtual treatment plan, you can see the anticipated results before even starting your treatment. Since you have a series of aligners instead of metal wires and brackets, you actually need to visit our office less often to get adjustments.
Using modern 3-D imaging technology, a custom set of aligners is made for you. Every two weeks, you switch to a new aligner. As you switch aligners, your teeth gradually and comfortably shift, resulting in a beautiful smile. Dr. Nick will have you come by the office every six weeks to confirm the progress of your treatment. On average, you will be in treatment for 9 – 15 months and wear 18 – 30 different aligners. However, actual treatment times will depend on your particular case.
The quick answer is that your daily life will be basically unaffected by Invisalign. Since the aligners are removable, you can eat and drink whatever you want. That being said, you will need to wear your aligners for 20 -22 hours a day, so you should only remove them for eating, brushing and flossing.
How long will treatment last?The length of treatment depends on the complexity of your case. The average case takes about 12 months to complete for a typical adult patient.
What if I have already had braces?Many Invisalign patients have undergone traditional braces treatment, most frequently during their youth. However, teeth can shift with age, and Invisalign is an excellent treatment option for adults.
How often will I need to see my Invisalign doctor?We will schedule your appointments according to your specific case. Usually, patients visit our office every 4 – 6 weeks for Invisalign.
How many people have been treated with Invisalign?Invisalign has been used to treat more than two million patients worldwide.
Invisalign TeenWorried about having metal braces for Prom, yearbook photos, or playing sports? Invisalign clear aligners are virtually invisible and most people do not even notice them. Since they are removable, you can eat what you want without any worry of breaking a bracket or rubber band.
Clear – Virtually invisible and do not show up in photos
Removable – Eat what you want, when you want
Maximum Comfort – Since the aligners gradually shift your teeth, Invisalign is extremely comfortable to wear
Customized – Each set is specific to you, so they are optimized for fast results
Ever hear that you won’t be able to eat anything with braces? Not with Invisalign. Because it is completely removable, you can eat all your favorites, from corn on the cob to popcorn or apples.
Invisalign will not interfere with any of your extracurricular activities. Not only are the aligners removable, they are very durable. No matter if you are acting, playing soccer, running cross country or part of the school band, Invisalign will let you continue to do all the activities you love.
There are orthodontic advantages to treating certain cases in two separate stages. The goal of the Phase I treatment is to develop facial harmony, healthy bones and gums, and adequate room for permanent teeth. Children sometimes exhibit early signs of jaw problems as they grow and develop. For example, an upper or lower jaw that is growing too much or not enough can benefit from early orthodontic treatment. A crowded jaw can also benefit from early observation and treatment. Phase I treatment can prevent the removal of permanent teeth due to excessive overbite or overcrowding and increases efficiency during Phase II treatment.
Generally, we use a growth-modifying appliance for skeletal problems, limiting the need for braces, to create necessary space for patients between 8-12 years of age. In our practice, approximately 25 percent of patients evaluated between these ages undergo early treatment. Our goals for these cases are: