The branch of dentistry that deals with the straightening and correction of problems dealing with alignment of teeth is called orthodontics.  “Ortho” comes from the Greek word meaning “straight or correct”, and “dont” means teeth.

Dr. Marx and Dr. Arjes are general dentist who have taken a considerable number of courses in the area of orthodontics so that they can offer this wonderful service to their patients; children and adults.

Crooked teeth, overlapping teeth, gaps, overbites, teeth coming in at the wrong position are only some of the reasons people consider braces for themselves or their children.  Here are some reasons to consider orthodontics you may not have been aware of:

• Crowded or crooked teeth can be a major factor in .  The crowded teeth or spaces between teeth can allow bacteria to hide and damage the gums in the area.
• A “bad bite” can affect the surfaces of our teeth causing wear patterns that can damage the tooth itself and make teeth sensitive, not to mention looking bad or feeling painful.
• Bite problems can lead to damage inside the jaw joints (TMJ) which can be the source of jaw pain, headaches, cramping of face and neck muscles.
• Misaligned teeth, crooked teeth can affect how our face looks.

Modern orthodontics uses a number of techniques to make braces faster, comfortable and effective.  Braces today usually consist of small attachments which are bonded to the teeth.  These attachments are called “brackets” and they can be silver, porcelain (white) or gold colored.  These brackets guide a small flexible wire from tooth to tooth. This wire, called the archwire, gently and slowly guides the teeth into better aligned positions.

There is nothing more rewarding and satisfying than watching someone with crooked or poorly aligned teeth end up with a terrific smile and healthy mouth, all based on the science of gently moving teeth.

Here are some important facts about orthodontics:

• Adult teeth are able to be straightened just as effectively as a younger person’s teeth; the only difference is that adults are no longer growing and so the planning is a bit different.

• If a bite problem is spotted early and the cause is sorted out, we can usually get a young person’s teeth in place and achieve a wonderful smile without removing teeth.

3.  Modern braces use very light, gentle force and except for slight
tenderness the day the archwires are changed (once a month),
there is very little discomfort.

Please contact the office, we will gladly schedule a time to take a look at your teeth and bite and see if modern braces could help you achieve the smile you have been hoping for.