There are so many questions that arise when making decisions about braces. Does my child need braces? Am I too old to have braces? Will it hurt? How much does it cost? Is a jaw surgery or tooth extraction absolutely necessary? How long will I need to wear braces?
Orthodontic options have changed radically. Current technologies have greatly improved the esthetics, efficiency and comfort of braces. Consumers want to be informed of these changes and depend on the Internet for information. The search engine results for “braces” yields hundreds of sites, not all reliable information. Where to look?
American Association of Orthodontics offers a comprehensive site, www.braces.org. There, you’ll find information and answers to frequently asked questions. There are several two to five minute webisodes discussing how to identify bite problems and the cosmetic benefits of orthodontics. If you need help with orthodontic terms, an illustrated glossary defines everything from accessories to wires. An Orthodontist Locator uses your zip code to list specialists in your area. You want to be sure to select a specialist in orthodontics for your orthodontic treatment.
I’ve been using the Damon System for a decade with excellent results. The website, www.damonbraces.com, provides great visuals and explains the treatment process. Everyone looks forward to the end result: a beautiful smile. A YouTube video which shows the transition can be seen at www.youtube.com/watch?v=ApTp5WiDb1E&feature=related. The Damon System is discussed, actual patients are interviewed and morphing pictures show the process from beginning to end.
Customized braces made using 3-D imaging are becoming a popular choice. Patient-specific brackets and custom wires are made specifically for the patient. This means greater comfort, shorter treatment time and fewer office visits. More can be found on custom treatment at www.ormco.com/index/ormco-products-insignia.
If you’ve been told jaw surgery is your only option, you may want to know more about TADS, Temporary Anchorage Devices. These devices also allow for the closure of large spaces so they provide an alternative to implants and bridges. Videos and information on TADS can be found at www.ormco.com/index/ormco-products-vector-developmentteam.
Much of the information above can be found on our website: www.DrRandolph.com. It’s not always easy sifting through all your options, so we have done some of it for you. We offer a comparison chart showing the differences between aligners and traditional, high-tech and ceramic braces.
If you’d just prefer to call, we’re available to answer your orthodontic questions at 661-222-3000.