Why Braces?

Your dentist may have discussed with you the benefits of having healthy, straight teeth and proper jaw alignment. Crooked, crowded teeth are hard to clean and maintain. This can result in tooth decay, worsen gum disease and lead to tooth loss.

Other orthodontic problems can contribute to abnormal wear of tooth surfaces, inefficient chewing function, excessive stress on gum tissue and the bone that supports the teeth. This could lead to chronic headaches and face or neck pain. Treatment by an orthodontist can be less costly than the additional care required from dental problems arising as a result of orthodontic problems.

Straight teeth are more attractive, can improve your oral health, your appearance and your self confidence!!

Braces for All Ages

Adults

Orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age, and adults especially appreciate the benefits of a beautiful smile. At Cavanaugh Orthodontics, we take pride in treating adults as well as children. The truth is many of our patients are adults of all ages. Modern orthodontic treatment is more comfortable, less visible and often requires fewer appointments than you might expect.

Dr. Cavanaugh will work closely with your general dentist to optimize your oral health.

Kids

The American Association of Orthodontists and Dr. Cavanaugh recommend children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. The permanent first molars and incisors have usually come in by that time and crossbites, crowding and other problems can be evaluated. Not all children require early treatment. Most are simply evaluated early and monitored periodically until the appropriate time to begin orthodontic treatment.

If indicated, early interceptive treatment can make treatment during adolescence easier and more comfortable for the patient. Early treatment can regulate the width of the upper and lower dental arches, gain space for permanent teeth, correct crossbites, correct severe protrusion, correct thumb sucking, and eliminate abnormal swallowing and speech problems.

How Orthodontic Treatment Works

Orthodontic appliances can be made of metal, ceramic or plastic. They may be removable or they may be brackets bonded to teeth. By placing a constant, gentle force in a carefully controlled direction, braces slowly move teeth to a corrected position.

This is a great time to wear braces! Modern orthodontic appliances are smaller, less visible and more comfortable than they used to be. You can choose clear or metal braces, or you may be a candidate for Invisalign®, invisible braces. Wires are also less noticeable than they used to be and the latest materials move teeth faster with less discomfort to the patient.

Duration of Treatment

Treatment time typically ranges from one to three years, depending on the growth of the patient and the severity of the problem. The patient’s diligent use of any prescribed rubber bands or headgear is an important factor in achieving the most efficient results. Interceptive, early treatment or limited treatment procedures may take as few as six months.