Both children and adults can benefit from a beautiful, healthy smile. Straight teeth not only make it easier to brush and floss, they also play an important role in building self-esteem, confidence and a positive self-image.
Children
In the past, orthodontic treatment was often postponed until the adolescent years when all the permanent teeth came into the mouth. We now know that many orthodontic problems can be treated earlier and much easier by working with the growth that takes place in younger children. We follow the American Association of Orthodontists’ recommendation that every child have an orthodontic evaluation by age 7, or earlier if a problem is detected. Although treatment may not begin at this young age, an early examination allows us to monitor your child’s dental development through our “Growth and Guidance” program. We have found that early detection can often reduce the need for removal of permanent teeth. In many cases, positive orthodontic results can be achieved which would not otherwise be possible once the face and jaws have finished growing.
Adults
Dr Polk has had a 10% higher percentage than the national average of adult patients for over 34 yearts. Beautiful, healthy smiles are possible for almost anyone. From age 7 to age 77, the biological process of tooth movement is the same in adults and children. In fact, it’s the condition of a person’s teeth, gums and supporting bone that is the most important element in deciding whether or not to begin treatment. Properly aligned teeth are not only easier to clean, they can go a long way to improving a person’s self-esteem and confidence.
Whether you are considering orthodontic care to enhance your appearance or to correct a poor bite that has contributed to dental problems, we would love to talk with you about the benefits of adult orthodontics.
Why Braces?
Crooked and crowded teeth are hard to clean and maintain. This can result in tooth decay, gum disease and early tooth loss. Other orthodontic problems can contribute to abnormal wear of tooth surfaces, inefficient chewing function, excessive stress on gum and bone tissues that support the teeth, or poor function of the jaw joints, which can lead to chronic headaches and face or neck pain. Treatment by an orthodontist can be less costly than the additional care required to treat dental problems arising as a result of orthodontic problems. For most people, a beautiful smile is the most obvious benefit of orthodontics. After your braces come off, you’ll feel more self-confident.
Essixtm Clear Aligners and Retainers
The invisible Essix appliance is used as a retainer and a tooth aligner and fits over the entire arch of teeth. Similar to Invisalign trays, Essix retainers have no wires, but Dr. Polk believes that they are much better for precision results because the adjustments are made by Dr. Polk in his office. This also reduces cost and they are easy to wear.