Before orthodontic braces can be started, a patient must first have a written treatment plan made to specially meet this patient's problems. It is done using records taken during a special diagnostic appointment. We take impressions to make models of the patient's teeth, photographs to document the relationships of the teeth, and several types of x-rays to geometrically analyze the patient's skull and it's relationship to their teeth. The doctor studies the information and in two weeks the patient is invited back and a presentation is done. At this time the needed care is carefully reviewed and a final cost for the treatment is determined.

          The development of both tooth bonding and modern miniature brackets has revolutionized orthodontic braces. Once the brackets are bonded to the teeth, an orthodontic wire is attached to the brackets. The wire forms a beautiful arch but this ideal arch form is deformed by twisting it into the brackets. The orthodontic wire wants to return to its original beautiful shape and pushes or pulls the attached teeth on its way back. Each month a stronger wire is placed into the brackets so that the attached teeth will continue to move.

          After the upper and lower arches are rounded, they must next be made to fit together using elastics which are attached to both the upper and lower arches at the same time. This slides the teeth along the archwires until they fit better. This is a very simple way of viewing orthodontic braces but is just intended to give you an idea of how they work. There are many, many modifications to correct different situations and each case is treated for that patient's situation.

          Removable orthodontics can help a child grow dental bone so that the child may not need to have permanent teeth removed later on in life in order to do regular orthodontics. The early use of removable braces may also prevent the need for more expensive treatment when all of a child's adult teeth have erupted into the mouth.

          More and more people are focusing on improving their personal health. They're taking vitamins, exercising, and even straightening their teeth. Orthodontic braces not only make your teeth and smile look better but often improves chewing function. This promotes better digestion and better health.  

          Initial consultations for orthodontics are free, so if you're at all interested in improving your smile and bite, be sure to make an consultation appointment with Dr. Padolsky by calling  404-874-7428.