6800 Palm Avenue . Sebastopol . California 95472 |
Generally orthodontic correction may be done at any age, but the best time to begin treatment depends on the type or severity of the malocclusion. Dr. Chan has the training and experience to discuss with you the best age for the most effective treatment with the least time and expense. Ages 7-10 years is the best time for an initial examination, but may not necessarily indicate that treatment should begin at this time. Early examination is recommended because it can uncover existing or potential conditions that may respond to interceptive orthodontic treatment. This early, sometimes simple treatment, can often decrease the necessity and cost of full orthodontic treatment at a later date. |
A treatment plan is developed specifically for each individual patient. Appliances used to reposition the teeth will vary depending on the patient's malocclusion and may include braces cemented directly to the teeth, appliances worn around the head or neck, removable appliances or a combination of these. Sometimes certain teeth must be removed to provide space for crowded teeth. Occasionally a combination of orthodontics and jaw surgery is required. After the appliances are removed, it is often necessary to wear a retainer and th length of time it is to be worn will be determined by Dr. Chan |
patient's dental and facial structures, the cooperation of the patient and severity of the malocclusion. In some individuals, teeth respond to treatment more readily than others.
from a year to three years; patients with mild problems may require less time. Following active treatment, most patients remain under the supervision of an orthodontist for one or more additional years to assure that their teeth remain in stable alignment. For children, treatment may be recommended in two stages: an initial phase during the early years to favorably affect the facial and skeletal growth or to intercept more severe crowding. A second phase following full eruption of the permanent teeth may be recommended in which poorly erupted teeth are brought into a more ideal alignment. For additional information on the benefits of orthodontic treatment, please visit the website of the American Association of Orthodontics at www.aaortho.org. |
When Should Orthodontic Treatment Begin? |
Orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics is that special branch of dentistry involving the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. The technical term for crooked, crowded or protruding teeth is "malocclusion" which literally means "bad bite". The practice of orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics involves the design, application and control of corrective appliances, commonly called braces, to treat and correct these irregularities. |
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The primary goal of the orthodontist is to improve oral health. Crooked and crowded teeth are hard to maintain and clean, and poorly maintained teeth can cause tooth decay, eventual tooth loss and gum disease. Crooked and crowded teeth can also cause a malocclusion, which can result in jaw and joint dysfunction and may often be associated with severe pain. Most often, you feel better when you look better and a pleasing smile is a vital asset to one's self-confidence. A individual's self- esteem often improves as orthodontic treatment brings teeth, lips and face into harmony with each other. |
Orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age. While the cessation of growth of the face and jaws may be a limitation, the tissues involved in the movement of teeth respond essentially the same in adults as in children. The health of the teeth and periodontal supporting structures is important in determining the improvement that can be achieved. Spacing between teeth, protruding front teeth, tipping of teeth into a space that was not maintained after premature extraction , and teeth that for any reason have moved into abnormal position all can be improved by adult orthodontics. Treatment may also be a benefit in preparation for other dental care or for dysfunction of the temporomandibular joint, facial pain or severe headaches that may be associated with a malocclusion. |
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Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics 707.823.1200 |
How Is Treatment Accomplished? |
What About Adult Orthodontics? |
How Long Will Treatment Take? |
Why is Orthodontic Treatment Important? |
What is Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics? |
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