Early Treatment
This stage of treatment usually takes place between the ages of 7-11 and is reserved for patients that have moderate to severe orthodontic problems. This phase is normally completed before all of the permanent teeth have erupted and can vary from patient to patient. Our doctors are conservative with Phase I treatment and do not recommend it unless it can make a significant difference for the patient. A common procedure in our office is to expand the upper jaw. This is best done early and can have a profound effect on both the bite and the airway.
Comprehensive Orthodontic Treatment
Comprehensive, or full, orthodontic treatment is for teens and adults alike. Regardless of age, it is designed to achieve our final goals of health, stability, and aesthetics. There are many tools to achieve these goals, and we offer a variety of options to choose from depending on your needs. Angel Aligners are the most aesthetic option as they are nearly invisible, but our fully custom LightForce® braces are small and clear, making them much less noticeable than the notorious "metal-mouth" braces that many adults remember. Plus, new heat-activated archwires use your body heat to help teeth move more quickly and with less pain than in the past.
TMJ Treatment- Splint Therapy
This is an important phase of treatment for those patients suffering from pain, dysfunction, and a general decline of the chewing system. This treatment usually involves full-time wear of a clear stabilization splint in order for the joints and the muscles to heal and repair themselves before the patient is ready for full orthodontic treatment. Traditionally splint therapy has been reserved for adult patients but recent research indicates that splint therapy can be very important for growing patients as well. Damage to the jaw joints can negatively affect growth of the lower jaw and face.
