Orthodontics at Total Health Dental Care

Orthodontics is a dental specialty focused on diagnosing, preventing, and treating dental and facial irregularities, such as misaligned teeth and bite problems. Orthodontic treatments, like braces, help improve the function and appearance of your teeth.

Invisalign aligners are the highest quality clear aligner therapy used to straighten smiles in orthodontics. Invisalign aligners are a series of clear aligners that fit your teeth very tightly, with each Invisalign aligner designed by your Total Health dentist to be slightly straighter than the last. Slowly and safely, Invisalign will move your teeth into proper alignment without any need for braces.

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. Early assessments help identify potential issues and determine the best time for treatment.

Traditional braces use metal brackets and wires to apply consistent pressure to your teeth, gradually moving them into the desired position. Periodic adjustments are made by your orthodontist to ensure progress and address any necessary changes.

The duration of orthodontic treatment varies depending on the individual’s specific needs. On average, most teens wear braces for 18 to 24 months. Your orthodontist will provide a more accurate timeline based on the treatment plan.

You may experience some discomfort or soreness after getting braces and following adjustments. This is normal and temporary, as it indicates that the braces are effectively moving your teeth. Over-the-counter pain relievers and orthodontic wax can help alleviate discomfort.

Yes, your teen can still participate in sports and play musical instruments while wearing braces. For contact sports, we recommend wearing a mouthguard to protect their teeth and braces.

To prevent damage to the braces, avoid sticky, hard, and chewy foods, such as gum, popcorn, caramel, and hard candies. Cutting food into smaller pieces and avoiding biting into hard items directly can also help protect the braces.

Yes, wearing a retainer is an essential part of the orthodontic treatment to maintain the results achieved by braces. Your orthodontist will provide specific instructions on how long and how often to wear the retainer.

The cost of braces varies depending on the complexity of the case and the duration of treatment. During your no-cost consultation, we will provide a detailed estimate and discuss financing options to make orthodontic treatment affordable.

Many dental insurance plans offer partial coverage for orthodontic treatments, including braces. It's essential to review your specific insurance policy to understand your coverage and any out-of-pocket expenses. Our team can help you navigate your insurance benefits and provide financing options if needed.