Early Treatment (Phase I treatment)

The American Association recommends that children be seen by an orthodontist by the age of seven. Early orthodontic intervention can address jaw growth problems that, if untreated, could lead to the need for a costly surgery later in life. It is also recommended to treat such problems as severe crowding, cross-bites, and finger/thumb sucking habits early. Addressing these issues between the ages of 7-10 decreases the likelihood that permanent teeth will become impacted (“stuck”) and require a surgical procedure to bring them into the mouth. Phase I treatment can also prevent asymmetric jaw growth as well as the need for extraction of permanent teeth later on.

Comprehensive Treatment (Phase II treatment)

This is also referred to as “full braces,” and we can start treatment when most of the permanent teeth have erupted. The goals of Phase II treatment are aligning the teeth, establishing a healthy bite, and maximizing facial esthetics. Treatment times will vary depending on the complexity of a person’s dentition. Average treatment times range from 14-18 months for simpler cases and from 24-36 months for more difficult cases. Phase II treatments can be accomplished with metal or clear brackets as well as Invisalign Teen.

Adult Treatment

Braces are not just for kids anymore! With more adults seeking to achieve their best smile, we are happy to treat adults of any age. Many adults feel more comfortable with our more esthetic treatment options such as Invisalign or clear brackets.

Surgical Orthodontics (age 17 and up)

Sometimes, in order to correct or straighten teeth, more than orthodontic correction is needed. Examples are severe overbites as well as jaw asymmetries. Often, a combination of orthodontic treatment and orthognathic (jaw) surgery must be performed. This surgery will be performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon at a specific time during the orthodontic treatment.