Orthodontics 101
Treatment Overview
Children as young as 7 years of age may benefit from an orthodontic evaluation
as occasionally some preventative treatment may be indicated.
Most patients begin orthodontic treatment between ages 9 and 16, but this
varies depending on each individual. Because teenagers are still growing, the
teen years are often the optimal time to correct orthodontic problems and achieve
excellent results.
Today, orthodontic treatment is a viable option for almost any adult. It is
well recognized that when left untreated, many orthodontic problems may become
worse. When you have a “bad bite”, your teeth may be crowded, excessively
spaced or may not fit together correctly. Such conditions may lead to dental
health problems. Crowded teeth are hard to clean and, given time, may contribute
to tooth decay, gum disease and even tooth loss. Bad bites can also result
in abnormal wearing of tooth surfaces, difficulty chewing and damage to supporting
bone and gum tissue. Poorly aligned teeth can contribute to pain in the jaw joints.
Dr. Ravassipour and his staff offer quality state-of-the-art treatment options
to assist in correcting these problems.
Your Visit(s)
During your first visit we will help you get acquainted with
our office and staff and Dr. Ravassipour will conduct a thorough exam of your
teeth, bite and facial esthetics to help best assess your orthodontic needs and
treatment time frame.
Subsequent treatment visits are scheduled every 4-8 weeks and may last 15-45
minutes, depending on the treatment necessary. We appreciate that you have a
busy schedule as well, so rest assured that we make every effort to have you
in (and out) on time!
We hope you and your family will feel completely at home in our office. We
offer drinks for your refreshment as well as a comfortable waiting area complete
with a children’s play space and an X-Box for kids and adults alike!
FAQs
What is an orthodontist?
Orthodontists are qualified dentists, who after graduating from dental school,
go on to additional full-time university-based education in an accredited orthodontic
residency program supervised by orthodontists. Dr. Ravassipour’s training
consisted of 3 years with hospital, research, and clinical experiences. By learning
about tooth movement (orthodontics) and guidance of facial development (dentofacial
orthopedics), orthodontists are the uniquely educated experts in dentistry to
straighten teeth and align jaws. Orthodontists diagnose, prevent and treat dental
and facial irregularities. They regularly treat young children, teens and adults.
What are diagnostic records?
Diagnostic records include photographs and impressions made of the teeth, as
well as x-rays to properly evaluate your needs. These diagnostic records collectively
enable Dr. Ravassipour to develop an appropriate treatment plan for you.
When should I begin treatment?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children get a
check-up with an orthodontist no later than age seven. Although few orthodontic
problems need to be corrected at that age, an early exam allows the orthodontist
to offer advice and guidance as to when the appropriate age to start treatment
would be. Dr Ravassipour can guide you as to when to start treatment.
How long will my treatment take?
The length of treatment varies depending on the complexity of the orthodontic
problem that requires correction, growth and tissue response to treatment, as
well as the level of patient cooperation during their treatment. On average treatment
lasts approximately two years, but orthodontic care requires a team approach
in which the family dentist, the orthodontist and the patient play key roles
that can impact the length of treatment and the quality of the end result.
What will my treatment cost?
Fees for orthodontic care vary with the complexity of the treatment. Dr Ravassipour
and his staff will work hard to provide you with accurate anticipated treatment
fees, payment options and insurance benefits.
Are there different types of braces?
Braces vary in appearance. Some braces are clear and nearly invisible, while
others are made of stainless steel and may or may not have colored elastics around
them. All braces are designed to enable the orthodontist to move teeth
in three dimensions. The mechanics or techniques used for moving teeth vary as
well. Dr. Ravassipour will talk with you in detail about the best approach to
your orthodontic treatment.
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