Interceptive Orthodontics

Dunn Orthodontics is a leading orthodontic practice that offers various malocclusion treatments from Invisalign to braces to interceptive orthodontic treatment. Malocclusion is caused by misalignment of the tooth and jaw, which can affect a number of things, including how you smile, bite and clean teeth. Invisalign is a popular treatment that uses a progressive series of clear, removable aligners or clear plastic trays to align teeth. The treatment takes a shorter time and is recommended in both children and adults. The treatment using braces, on the other hand, offers a number of benefits, including increased self esteem, less tooth decay and fewer digestive disorders.

Statistics indicate that orthodontic treatment is predictable and immensely successful. Depending on the severity of the condition, treatment typically takes three phases, the planning stage, active phase and the retention phase. During the planning stage, the orthodontist will make a diagnosis and find the most effective ways to align the patient’s tooth. The process involves several evaluations, including medical and dental evaluations, taking panoramic x-rays, developing study casting or bite impressions and generating computer images. In the second stage of treatment, the selected diagnosis is packaged together to develop a custom treatment plan.

The whole purpose of the treatment is to help in developing the child’s jaw to make more room for future eruption of permanent teeth. The treatment also aims at improving the relationship of the lower and upper jaws. An upper or lower jaw that is not enough or growing too much can benefit from the orthodontic treatment.

The process may involve recommending custom orthodontic treatment devices to aid the alignment process and use of braces and removable devices such as Invisalign system, a face mask, and headgear among other items. During the retention phase of treatment, the use of removable devices are discontinued after the tooth is correctly aligned. Once the treatment is complete, the orthodontist develops a custom retainer to ensure the teeth don’t shift back to their previous position. The retainer also helps reform the jawbone by keeping teeth stable and well aligned. The retainers are only worn for a stipulated time frame.