An orthodontist in Oak Creek is a dental specialist who straightens teeth. Not only are straight teeth more attractive than crooked teeth, they provide health benefits. For example, they are easier to clean than are crooked teeth, which reduces the risks of tooth decay and gum disease.
What Is Interceptive Orthodontics?
Interceptive orthodontics, also known as early intervention orthodontics, describes orthodontic procedures done during the first phase of orthodontic treatment. The American Academy of Orthodontics now recommends that all children see an orthodontist by the time they are seven years old. Their adult teeth will have started growing in, and the orthodontist will be able to spot developing problems, like crowding or uneven development of the jaw. The orthodontist will then recommend a treatment. The second phase, if needed, will involve straightening the teeth when the child’s adult teeth have all grown in.
What Is the Herbst Appliance?
The Herbst appliance is an orthodontic treatment used to correct severe bite issues caused by problems with the lower jaw. It can be used instead of headgear. The best candidates are children between nine and fourteen years old, for their jawbones are still growing and developing.
The Herbst appliance works by correcting the position of the jaw. It consists of bands around some of the molars, and those bands are connected to a system of rods and sleeves. The patient will usually have to wear the appliance for nine to twelve months.
What Types of Braces Are Offered?
Patients can get traditional metal braces, clear braces, or Invisalign. The clear braces are ceramic braces made from a very hard substance called monocrystalline sapphire, which also has the advantage of being translucent. The archwire is thus the only visible part.
Contact Griffin Orthodontics or visit our website to schedule an appointment with an orthodontist in Oak Creek.
