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Orthodontics

Types of Orthodontics Available:
•	Traditional Orthodontics
•	Invisalign
•	Removable Orthodontics
•	Instant Orthodontics

Orthodontics

Orthodontics consists of diagnosing and treating malocclusions or “bad bites” such as teeth crowding, spaces between teeth, overbites and under bites. These conditions may be inherited or caused by trauma, habits such as nail biting or thumb sucking, and drifting of loose teeth due to gum disease. Misaligned teeth contribute to poor dental health because they are hard to clean. Difficulty in cleaning can lead to decay and gum disease, chewing problems and jaw, head and neck aches. Teeth that are in proper alignment are more attractive, younger looking and healthier. There are several ways in which teeth can be guided into proper position within an efficient treatment time to create a pleasing facial balance. The good news is that teeth can be moved at any age! This has helped many of our patients by building their self-confidence and helping them with their social and professional success.

Dr. Mello is specifically trained in orthodontic care and can assess your specific needs and explain the best type of braces for your case. During the initial consultation, you'll be able to talk to her about the specific changes you would like to make in your appearance. She will explain the different options available to you, the procedure itself and its risks and limitations. She will discuss cost estimates, since they vary according to length and difficulty on the case. Patient references are always available.

Traditional Orthodontics

Traditional Orthodontics involves the use of metal brackets that are bonded to the front of your teeth. Wires and elastic bands are used to apply pressure to move your teeth into proper alignment. A popular alternative to metal brackets are ceramic brackets; these brackets greatly reduce that “metal mouth” look. With traditional Orthodontics, most cases can be completed in six to 18 months, depending on the severity of the original condition and the treatment outcome desired.

Invisalign

Invisalign is the latest advance in Orthodontics. It is the invisible way of straighten teeth without braces. Using advanced 3-D computer imaging technology to project tooth movement, Invisalign creates a series of clear, custom-made aligners that gradually move your teeth. You wear each aligner for about two weeks, moving to the next set, until your teeth are straight. The advantages of Invisalign over traditional Orthodontics include:

· They are nearly invisible;
· They are comfortable with no wires or brackets to cause mouth scores;
· They are removable, so you can still eat and drink what you want,
· They permit normal brushing and flossing, to maintain healthy gums and teeth.

Removable Orthodontics

With removable orthodontics, the patient wears a removable retainer-like appliance that has various springs and attachments on it to create pressure to move the teeth into proper alignment. The use of these appliances is case-sensitive and in most cases cannot achieve what traditional or Invisalign ortho can do. But for many cases, this is an excellent option provided patient compliance is excellent.

Instant Orthodontics

With modern dental technology, uneven teeth can be reshaped and laminated with tech ceramics. We call this instant Orthodontics, using veneers or laminates instead of braces to make teeth look straight. It can close large gaps and correct some overcrowding in as little as 1-2 days. It is typically a pain-free procedure requiring only the use of local anesthetics. You are a candidate for this if you would like your teeth to look straighter and cannot commit to the time for conventional Orthodontics. The extent to which this approach can be used depends on how crowded and crooked the teeth are to begin with. Sometimes a combination of limited traditional Orthodontics and ceramic enhancement may be the best choice.

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