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About two years ago our family began seeing Dr Mead. Dr Mead merges cutting edge technology and great technique to provide excellent dental care. He is fantastic with our kids. Going to the Dentist is no longer a chore but an enjoyable experience. The staff are very nice, the text reminders about appointments are very helpful and we never have to wait for our appointment they are always on time. Thanks Dr Mead š
- Ken Livingston
Invisalign is a series of āinvisibleā aligners created through 3-D imaging technology that moves teeth in kindest, gentlest way until an ideal alignment as possible can be achieved.
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Oral Orthopedics
Orthodontics and oral orthopedics is the formal name of the dental speciality that is associated with the correction of malocclusions and bad bites.
The purpose of diagnosing the need for orthodontics is two fold ā
1 ā We first place the bone and joint in the proper place so going forward problems such as extractions, TMJ, and sleep apnea can be avoided.
2 ā We create a healthy bite that puts the teeth in proper alignment which prevents excessive wear, gum recession, and unnecessary force on roots that can cause nerve problems.
There are several dental malocclusions that can be treated with orthodontics such as crowding, teeth spaced too far apart, teeth donāt meet at all, or meet in an abnormal way.
The key to orthodontics and the philosophy that Downtown Dental Syracuse puts forth is early intervention between the age of 7-12 and no extractions of permanent teeth.
Types of Orthodontic Treatments We Provide
Two Phase Early Intervention
Normally beginning between the ages of 7-12 a combination of appliances and braces are used to shape and move the bone to proper placement so there is sufficient room for the permanent teeth to erupt without the need for extractions. There is then a ābreakā where the appliances and braces are removed until all the permanent teeth erupt. Once this happens regular braces are placed to align the teeth properly.
Fixed metal or ceramic āwhiteā braces
Normally these are used when an adolescent or adult has all or most of their permanent teeth in place. Brackets are places and a series of wires are used to align the teeth properly until an ideal bite is achieved.
Invisalign
Clear plastic aligners are placed in succession to make teeth move at a slow comfortable rate until they are aligned properly. Several white attachments or ābuttonsā are placed on teeth to allow the teeth to be moved into proper alignment.
Where is was once thought that all cases were not possible through invisalign it is now almost always a choice for most types of dental malocclusions.
Frequently Asked Questions
1). What is orthodontics and how does it help?
Orthodontics is a specialized area of dentistry focused on correcting misaligned teeth and bite issues. It helps improve both the function and appearance of your smile while supporting long-term oral health.
2). Who should consider orthodontic care?
Orthodontic care can benefit both children and adults. If you have concerns about tooth alignment, bite issues, or the overall appearance of your smile, an evaluation can help determine the right approach for your needs.
3). Why is proper tooth alignment important?
Proper alignment makes your teeth easier to clean, improves how your bite functions, and reduces the risk of issues such as uneven wear, gum disease, and difficulty chewing or speaking.
4). At what age should someone see an orthodontic provider?
Orthodontic evaluations are typically recommended around age 7, but treatment can be effective at any age. Many adults choose orthodontic care to improve both their oral health and confidence.
5). Can orthodontics improve more than just appearance?
Yes. Orthodontic treatment not only enhances your smile but also improves bite function, supports better oral hygiene, and helps prevent future dental concerns.
6). How do I know if I have an orthodontic problem?
Common signs include crooked or crowded teeth, gaps, or difficulty biting and chewing. Even mild symptoms can benefit from an evaluation to determine if treatment is recommended.
7). How long do orthodontic results typically last?
With proper care and maintenance, orthodontic results can last for many years. Wearing retainers as recommended and maintaining good oral hygiene are key to preserving your results.
8). Does orthodontic care support long-term oral health?
Yes. Properly aligned teeth are easier to clean and maintain, which reduces the risk of tooth decay and gum disease over time.
9). Why is the age range of 7ā12 considered ideal for early orthodontic evaluation?
During this stage, the jaw is still developing, allowing for more effective guidance of growth and tooth positioning before all permanent teeth have fully erupted.
10). Can orthodontic treatment help prevent future dental and health issues?
Yes. Proper alignment can reduce the risk of excessive tooth wear, gum problems, jaw discomfort, and other complications associated with an improper bite.