First and foremost in orthodontic treatment is, of course, braces.  Ever the classic look, braces are used to move teeth.  But how?  They allow total three-dimensional control over movement.  Rigidly attached, braces can move teeth in any direction because they allow a fixed "handle" to which a force can be applied.  Teeth are attached to bone through a ligament.  When the force is applied (through a wire), the ligament stretches in some areas and compresses in others, allowing the surrounding bone to be remodeled, which then allows the tooth to move.  Many improvements have been made to braces over their 100+ year history.  We offer the latest, most advanced non-metal (ceramic) based braces available.  They look great with clear ties or with colors, giving you the flexibility to minimize or maximize the amount of attention you want.  Unlike most providers, we offer these advanced braces at no additional charge.  In the hands of any properly trained professional, any brand or type of braces will effectively move teeth and give you a great result.  Why not have a little fun in the meantime?

Clear aligners can also be used to move teeth to improve your smile.  They are a good alternative for those who think braces are icky and won't change their minds.  Aligners, however, differ from braces and have several drawbacks.  First and foremost, they are removable and require you to actually wear them of your own free will if they are to be successful.  Additionally, they are not as effective because there is no rigid attachment to the teeth like braces.  This has been improved somewhat over the years with the incorporation of, ironically, "attachments", or tooth-colored bumps that allow a little more directional control over tooth movement.  Also differing from braces, aligners achieve movement over a series of many steps, or small incremental changes, which each set of aligners allows.  The forces applied with braces through the wires are more consistent.  Because of these differences, aligners are not the ideal choice when looking for an ideal end result.  But, hey, if you really still want them, we will give them to you!  The system we have chosen matches our braces and is equal in quality, 3M Clarity.  They focus on quality and customer service, which means good things for you.  You can visit their website, https://www.3m.com/3M/en_US/types-of-braces-and-treatment-us/clear-aligners/, to see for yourself.

It's never too late for orthodontic treatment.  I have treated patients up to age 70.  If you have teeth, chances are they can be moved, resulting in a better smile, more functional bite, and improved self-confidence.  Come see me and I'll tell you what I can do for you.

Braces are not exclusively used for full mouth treatment.  You may want just your upper or lower teeth straightened.  There may only be a few teeth that bother you, or just one.  If it's out of place, I can move it!  Limited treatment is cheaper and faster than full treatment and may only last a few months depending on the desired result.  Just open big and let me have a look.

Adolescent age is the typical age for comprehensive treatment.  Comprehensive includes an evaluation of upper and lower teeth, how they fit together, and their relationship and harmony to the face, smile and jaws.  This is the time when the most change can be achieved and treatment is most efficient and effective.

Treatment can and should be done early in certain cases to intercept and correct issues before they get worse and to help the rest of the teeth come in better.  Growth can also be modified to correct some jaw problems and potentially avoid surgery in the future.

Whitening always makes me think of Erik Estrada in Chip's Patrol, better known as Poncherello.  Teeth so white you can't tell where one ends and another begins.  Seriously, though, there are several options for whitening.  You can do it yourself with take-home kits that use either universal or custom fit trays.  This method typically takes about two weeks.   Application is in two hour increments or overnight.  This is the better option for those of you with sensitive teeth and a higher level of patience.  You can also risk the pain of in-office whitening that is done in 15 minute increments, a better option for less sensitive teeth combined with an "I want results now" attitude.  Both work well and can improve two or three shades with each application.  Any method will lessen over time and must be maintained or repeated to keep those whites pearly.  I use Opalescence products.  Check it out at opalescence.com if you want to learn more.

Retainers are used to keep teeth straight or to make minor changes.  There are several types and many variations.  Removable retainers can be, uh, removed, and are generally either clear (like aligners) or with a visible wire (classic type, see pictures).  Fixed retainers are attached to the teeth and cannot be removed unless you really, really want to take them out, i.e. with a pair of pliers (not recommended).  Which type you need depends on several factors, such as how your teeth looked to begin with, what types of movements or changes have occurred throughout your treatment, your age, your personality (not kidding, somewhat), and your doctor's personal preference.  I will let you know at the beginning of your treatment which type I expect you will need.