Early Treatment

When is the best time to begin orthodontics?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that the initial orthodontic evaluation should occur at the first sign of orthodontic problems or no later than age 7. At this early age, orthodontic treatment may not be necessary, but an examination can anticipate the most advantageous time to start treatment.

What are the benefits of early orthodontic evaluation?

Early evaluation provides both timely detection of problems and greater opportunity for more effective treatment. Prudent intervention guides growth and development, preventing serious problems later. When orthodontic intervention is not necessary, Dr. Glovsky can carefully monitor growth and development and begin treatment when it is ideal.

What are the advantages of interceptive treatment?

Interceptive treatment is treatment that begins when the patient has some baby teeth present.

Some of the most direct results of interceptive treatment are:

• Creating room for crowded, erupting teeth
• Creating facial symmetry through influencing jaw growth
• Reducing the risk of trauma to protruding front teeth
• Preserving space for unerupted teeth
• Reducing the need for tooth removal
• Reducing treatment time with braces

Why should malocclusions be treated?

According to studies by the American Association of Orthodontists, untreated malocclusions can result in a variety of problems:

• Crowded teeth are more difficult to properly brush and floss, which may contribute to tooth decay and/or gum disease.
• Protruding teeth are more susceptible to accidental chipping.
• Crossbites can result in unfavorable growth and uneven tooth wear.
• Openbites can result in tongue-thrusting habits and speech impediments.

Ultimately, orthodontics does more than make a pretty smile – it creates a healthier you.

Comprehensive Treatment

Between the ages of 11 and 15 is the most common time for comprehensive orthodontic treatment. Age 12, most if not all of the permanent teeth have erupted and are in place, and crooked teeth, gaps and bad bites can easily be evaluated and treated.

Children at this age are growing rapidly, and Dr. Glovsky can often take advantage of these growth spurts to help shape the bite and teeth correctly.

Adult Treatment

If you think that braces are only for children and teenagers, think again. More and more adults are seeking orthodontic treatment to give them smiles that improve their confidence and their health. As long as you have healthy gums and bone structure, you can be a candidate to receive adult braces at our practice.

Braces can reduce your risk of gum disease, tooth loss, TMJ/TMD, and even larger health problems, such as those affecting the cardiovascular system.

When you visit our office, we will be able to provide you with an individualized treatment plan that is designed to meet your specific needs and tailored for your comfort. It is never too late to get the smile you deserve.

Empower® Brackets

The Most Complete Self Ligating Bracket System in the World.

Empower is a series of "self-ligating" bracket system made in the USA by American Orthodontics. Self-ligating braces offer several benefits for patients. They use a "self-ligation" mechanism, as opposed to the "colored rubber bands", to keep the arch wire fully engaged into the bracket slot.
This maximizes the efficiency and effectiveness of the arch wire. Here at Glovsky Orthodontics we exclusively use these high technology braces. Self-ligating braces offer several advantages such as:

• Less pain due to gentler forces
• Longer intervals between visits (patients are typically seen every 8 to 12 weeks)
• Easier to keep clean
• Faster treatment time (most patients can be treated in 12 to 24 months)

Retention

Retention is the final part of your orthodontic treatment. When braces are removed it is natural for teeth to shift. Patients are instructed to wear retainers to help prevent shifting. If the instructions for the retainers are not followed, teeth will move. Teeth may feel sore for the first few days of retainer wear. Over the counter medicine may be taken to relieve discomfort. The final orthodontic result depends on diligent retainer wear so be sure to follow through with the instructions given.

Retainer Wear and Care

Removable retainers are worn and are taken out to eat and brush. This means you will also sleep in the retainer at night. When your retainer is not in your mouth keep it in your retainer case at all times!!

• Use your toothbrush and water to clean the retainer.
• Retainers can be ruined by heat. Never put a retainer in boiling water, a dishwasher or on the dashboard of a car.
• Keep retainers beyond the reach of pets and young children. Dogs and cats like to chew on retainers.
• Retainers can be broken if placed in a pocket or in a backpack. Please use your retainer case!!
• Retainers are likely to be thrown in the trash if wrapped in a tissue or napkin or placed on a food tray.
• If your retainer is loose, broken or feels different, promptly call our office during business hours. Never try to adjust your retainer. There is a charge to replace retainers…………….So please be careful!