Straight Teeth are Healthier Teeth

A beautiful smile is a pleasure to own and a pleasure to see. We can help straighten your teeth, bring your lip and jaw into proper alignment and make your smile even better looking.

Sometimes teeth just don’t grow in evenly. Malocclusion, bad bite and protruding teeth influence appearance and can affect self-confidence. Crowded and crooked teeth are harder to brush and floss thoroughly, so they are more susceptible to tooth decay and gum disease. Misaligned teeth often affect the way teeth bite together in the mouth. Crooked teeth can affect the alignment of jaw bones, causing tension and discomfort.

Orthodontic treatments take time and investment. They take more time with adults than with teenagers. Orthodontic treatments work by exerting gentle pressure over a period of months or years to move teeth into desired positions.

Braces

Braces are still the most popular orthodontic treatment. There are three parts to braces, the bracket that attaches to each tooth, the bonding that cements the bracket to each tooth, and the archwire that runs through all the brackets. Traditionally, brackets and archwires are made of metal. Speed braces are sophisticated, miniaturized spring loaded braces that store energy. The spring is activated when the tooth is not in its correct position. This feature enables the teeth to move more rapidly. Other less visible options are now available such as clear brackets and invisible aligners.

People who wear braces can speed the process somewhat by following our instructions in maintaining excellent oral hygiene, wearing the appliance, avoiding activities and foods that could dislodge the appliances, and attending appointments as scheduled.

Retainers

Retainers are removable or fixed appliances that may only need to be worn for a certain length of time. Retainers may treat minor orthodontic issues. They keep teeth in their positions once braces have been removed.

If you are interested in orthodontic treatment, you may want to discuss with Dr. Wong-Pau. We may choose to refer more complicated cases in this area to a specialist, called an orthodontist.