Common Questions

What is an orthodontist?

An orthodontist is a specialist in the movement of teeth and the correction of jaw problems. In addition to college and dental school, an orthodontist completes three years of intensive specialty training at a graduate school approved by the ADA.

What is orthodontics?

Orthodontics is much more than just a teenage rite of passage, although approximately seventy percent of the United States population could benefit from orthodontic care. The goals and benefits of orthodontic treatment are the achievement of function, harmony and balance between the teeth, jaws and face for a lifetime of attractive, healthy smiles. Orthodontics can also relieve the unnecessary strain and discomfort that occur when teeth do not meet properly.

Orthodontic Treatment

Pediatric

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children, regardless of their orthodontic progression, receive an orthodontic evaluation by age seven. Early examination allows orthodontists to determine the best time for orthodontic treatment, and if necessary, to begin preventative treatment. Early interceptive orthodontic therapy can minimize the need for more complex treatment in the future.

Adolescent

By the time children reach adolescence, their permanent teeth are either in, or are erupting. Teenagers jaw bones are almost finished growing, making this an ideal time to correct their teeth.

People whose teeth are crooked or misaligned are often self conscious about their appearance. By starting early, you can give your child a healthy smile with a lifetime of benefits. Seeing our patients grow and mature into confident young adults is one of our greatest rewards.

Adult

No matter what your age, appearance is an important aspect of your life. You are never too old for orthodontic treatment. In fact, thirty percent of our patients are adults. Many adults seek orthodontic treatment not just for the sake of their smiles, but to improve the function of their bite. Adult orthodontics is more convenient and comfortable than ever. Technological advancements have made adulthood a great time to achieve the smile you have always wanted.

Advantages of Early Treatment

Moves the front teeth back so they will be less susceptible to injury.
Improves the relationship of upper and lower jaws, allowing more normal future growth and development.
Uses maximum advantage of growth for successful treatment.
Improves facial appearance and self-esteem
Takes advantage of the good cooperation of patients at this age.
May avoid or reduce the need for extraction of teeth when patients are older.

Orthodontic treatment can be started on certain types of tooth problems before all permanent teeth have erupted. Early treatment, usually begun after the four permanent upper and lower teeth have erupted (ages 7-9), is recommended when any of these problems are apparent
* Teeth renderings are for illustrative purposes only and may vary from actual tooth anatomy.

Working with your dentist

By working closely with your dentist, we can help you achieve your ideal smile. We maintain communication with your dentist throughout your orthodontic treatment and ensure that he or she is informed about your treatment at all times. It is extremely important that you continue to visit your family dentist regularly for routine dental care.

Questions & Concerns

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to discuss them with Dr. Johnson or any member of his staff.

Here at Jeff Johnson Orthodontics, we love to treat your kids!

We have the skills and expertise to give you that perfect smile.