Dr. Dustin and Dr. Henry answer your questions regarding modern orthodontic technologies. Here are a few of the responses. If you have a question, please fill out the form below. Please leave your e-mail address, so that we can respond to you directly, and, if appropriate, privately as well.
It is hard to say what the best retention option might be once we get the space closed. Sometimes it is possible to bond the teeth together, although this depends on the bite. We have a variety of options for space closure. PLease give the office a call and we can evaluate the situation.
This is the highest level of Invisalign provider. Less than 1% of doctors that offer Invisalign have completed enough continuing education hours and treated enough patients successfully to have received this honor. These Doctors have the highest level of training to manage the most difficult of Invisalign treatments.
Modern aesthetic braces are an option for patients that are not candidates for Invisalign therapy. Many patients have heard that clear brackets tend to discolor and are concerned the braces will “yellow” with time. Some first generation clear braces were made of materials that tended to discolor much like the tupperware bowl that was used to store the spaghetti sauce. Modern clear brackets are made of materials that are non-porous and DO NOT discolor when a patient enjoys their favorite foods.
While there is no set age for Invisalign Teen, we do require that all of the primay (baby) teeth be gone before a patient is a candidate. We also require that most (but not all) of the adult teeth be erupted. It is important to remember that even if your child has all of these requirements fulfilled is does not mean that he or she is an Invisalign Teen candidate.
No. Braces are handles that are glued to teeth to provide a platform with which various directional forces can be applied. There are many manufactures that claim that their particular type of braces move teeth faster, but all of these claims are grossly unsubstantiated by research. Some also claim that their type of braces can reduce the number of extractions or other appliances needed during treatment – these are also marketing ploys directed towards the public to help sell a product. The art and science of tooth movement has changed greatly over the last few years; however, most of these advances are a result in the new types of wires and how they apply force to the teeth.
It is not necessary for your general dentist to refer you to the Orthodontist. However, we do require that you be under the care of a general dentist before we begin any treatment. Our office will call and check with your dentist to make sure that the teeth, bone and gums are in good health prior to starting your Austin orthodontic treatment. Often times we also need to consult with your dentist about the goals of treatment so that we are sure to accommodate any and all crowns or other restorations that may need to be done before or after treatment.