Orthodontics
With the comprehensive range of treatment options available from Thompson Center for Dentistry, we can help you or your child address a number of common orthodontic issues. Whether you are concerned about teeth misalignment, crowding, or bite irregularities that may be affecting both the appearance and function of your teeth, our team is extensively trained in some of the most advanced techniques to correct orthodontic problems with beautiful results.
What is Orthodontics?
Orthodontics is a field of dentistry which focuses on movement of the teeth, bite alignment, and jaw position. When the teeth, bite, and jaws are not aligned properly, individuals can experience a number of functional and aesthetic issues that have an effect on their livelihood as well as their self-esteem. With advanced orthodontic techniques, teeth that appear crooked, misaligned, or crowded can be moved into a straighter, more even position. Orthodontics can also help patients affected by overbite, underbite, crossbite, and other malocclusion conditions. The field of orthodontics has seen many unique innovations over the years, allowing patients of all ages to address their orthodontic concerns in more discreet, effective, and comfortable ways.
Family Orthodontics
Here at Thompson Center for Dentistry, we offer state-of-the-art orthodontic solutions for the entire family. Whether you are considering orthodontic treatment for your child or for yourself, our practice can help you meet your needs with the latest treatment options and results that give you new reasons to smile!
Child and Early-Phase Orthodontics
Adult Orthodontics
While orthodontic treatments are often associated with adolescents, the fact is that a large and growing percentage of adults are opting to correct orthodontic problems as well. One of the reasons for this is likely because of the many new types of orthodontic treatment available that can resolve lifelong functional and aesthetic issues utilizing more discreet and comfortable techniques. With clear and ceramic braces, clear plastic teeth aligners, and other innovative modalities, adults can achieve straighter teeth and an improved bite without concern about how their smile will look during treatment.
There are many similarities between orthodontic treatment for children and adults, but there is one significant difference: the teeth and jaws in an adult are already fully developed. With that in mind, treatment may take a bit longer to achieve optimal results; however, the length of treatment greatly depends on each individual’s needs and goals, the complexity of their orthodontic concerns, and other factors. Many adult patients can attain exceptional outcomes more discreetly and comfortably than ever before, without experiencing treatment periods that are excessively longer than the normal range. Our dentist will be happy to meet with you for an initial consultation and oral evaluation to discuss your needs and talk with you about the many types of treatment available that can provide the best results without disrupting your lifestyle.
What are My Orthodontic Treatment Options?
From standard braces to procedures designed to improve common orthodontic concerns without sacrificing the appearance of your smile during treatment, Thompson Center for Dentistry offers a range of options to suit the needs of both children and adults.
Our orthodontic treatments include:
Phase 1 Growth Development
The goal of Phase One treatment is to develop the jaw to accommodate all permanent teeth and improve the way the jaws fits together. Children can exhibit early signs of jaw problems and crowding; therefore, evaluating around age 6 is recommended. If children are snoring and having a hard time breathing, it is a good idea to check on their jaw positions and possible excess tissues that may prevent them from getting enough oxygen.
Traditional Braces
Traditional braces are some of the most effective treatments available for patients with moderate to severe orthodontic concerns. Using a system of brackets and wires, braces are delicately placed along the teeth with the goal of gradually moving them into a more desirable position. Thompson Center for Dentistry offers many different types of braces to suit the needs of both children and adults.
Invisalign® and Invisalign Teen®
Invisalign® is one of the most popular orthodontic treatments available. This system of clear, removable aligners is designed to help patients with mild to moderate orthodontic issues address their concerns in a more discreet way. Our practice offers both formulations of this treatment: Invisalign® for adults and Invisalign Teen® for our younger patients.
PROPEL® Orthodontics
PROPEL® offers an innovative technique that can accelerate the orthodontic treatment process for many patients. This procedure can be an excellent complement to orthodontic procedures such as Invisalign®, ultimately helping to dramatically reduce the overall treatment time necessary to achieve the best results. Working in conjunction with your orthodontic appliance, PROPEL® is known to help the treatment process go faster and smoother.
Retainers
An orthodontic retainer is typically the last step of the treatment process. This oral appliance is designed to help stabilize and secure the results that have been achieved with braces or other orthodontic techniques. The length of time you will need to wear your retainer will depend on your individual treatment plan. Our dentist will talk with you about your needs and determine the type of retainer that will optimize your results.
Please contact Thompson Center for Dentistry with any questions you may have, or to schedule a consultation. We will be happy to evaluate your needs and create an orthodontic treatment plan designed to bring you a beautiful new smile!