Teeth Alignment

CHARLESTON ORTHODONTICS

At Crescent Moon Orthodontics, we offer a variety of treatments that are designed for different age groups all revolving around teeth alignment. During the initial examination, we will be able to determine the best possible treatment for your individual needs. Your new smile can begin today.

Types of Braces - Teeth Alignment Charleston

THAT WE OFFER

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DOCTOR DIRECTED CLEAR ALIGNERS - INVISALIGN®

The Invisalign System is a series of clear overlay templates called aligners that have been generated by computer simulation to gradually move the teeth. This system is available to adult patients with certain orthodontic bite problems. Ask us if you are a candidate for the Invisalign system to aid in teeth alignment.

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INVISALIGN® TEEN

Invisalign® Teen is ideal for mature teens looking to enhance their smile, but are concerned about the appearance of traditional braces. Using a series of clear, removable aligners, Invisalign Teen will work hard to straighten your teeth, and twice as hard to keep others from noticing.

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TRADITIONAL BRACES FOR TEETH ALIGNMENT

We offer traditional metal braces with both clear and rhodium-coated options.

  • Teeth Alignment Basics for

    ORTHODONTIC TREATMENTS

    • Is it required that my family dentist schedule my appointment with the orthodontist?

      No, it is not. Many of our patients are referred by their family dentist, yet many other patients take the initiative to schedule an examination themselves.

    • At what age should I schedule an appointment for an orthodontic screening?

      The American Association of Orthodontists recommends an orthodontic screening at age 7. By this age, several permanent teeth in most children have erupted, allowing us to effectively evaluate your orthodontic condition.

    • Will my teeth straighten out as they grow?

      No, they will not. The space available for the front teeth does not increase as you grow. In most people, after the permanent molars erupt, the space available for the front teeth decreases with age.

    • How do I schedule an appointment for an initial exam?

      If you or your child can potentially benefit from orthodontic treatment, simply call our office, send us an e-mail or fill out our appointment request form online. We will be happy to schedule an appointment for you. When you call to schedule your appointment, our front office staff will request some basic information from you.

    • What will happen at the initial examination appointment?

      Upon arriving, each patient and parent will be seen by the staff and doctor who will acclimate you to our office and prepare for the initial exam. We will take the necessary photographs and X-rays to allow us to make a proper diagnosis. The doctor will then complete a brief, but thorough, exam.

    • What will I learn from the initial examination?

      To read more about your first visit, see our First Visit Page.

    • There are five essential questions that we will cover during the initial examination:

      Is there an orthodontic problem, and if so, what is it?
      What must be done to correct the problem?
      Will any teeth need to be removed?
      How long will the treatment take to complete?
      How much will the treatment cost?

    • Will I need to have teeth extracted for braces?

      Removing teeth is sometimes required to achieve the best orthodontic result. Straight teeth and a balanced facial profile are the goal of orthodontics. However, because new technology has provided advanced orthodontic procedures, removing teeth is not always necessary for orthodontic treatment.

    • How long will it take to complete treatment?

      Treatment time obviously depends on each patient’s specific orthodontic problem. In general, treatment times range from 12 to 30 months. The “average” time frame a person is in braces is approximately 22 months.

    • How much will braces cost? Are financing options available? How does my insurance work?

      It is impossible to give an exact cost for treatment until we have examined you. We will cover the exact cost and financial options during the initial examination. We have many financing options available to accommodate your needs, and we will review these with you. We will also review your insurance policy and help to maximize your benefit and file your claims.

    • How often will I have appointments?

      Appointments are scheduled according to each patient’s needs. Most patients in braces will be seen every five to 10 weeks. If there are specific situations that require more frequent monitoring, we will schedule appointments accordingly.

    • Can I schedule all of my appointments after school?

      Unfortunately, we cannot schedule all appointments for students during after-school hours. However, because most appointments are scheduled five to 10 weeks apart, most patients will miss minimal school due to their orthodontic treatments. We will, however, make a sincere effort to meet your scheduling needs.

    • Can I drop my child off for an appointment?

      Yes. We understand your busy schedule, and we are happy to help you make the most of your time. On some occasions, we may request to speak with a parent when they return, so we ask that parents check in with their patient manager before dropping off their child.

    • Do braces hurt?

      Generally, braces do not “hurt.” After certain visits, teeth may be sore for a few days. In these situations, pain medications such as Advil or Tylenol will ease the discomfort. However, after most visits, patients do not feel any soreness at all! We often remind our patients, “It does not have to hurt to work!”

    • Can I return to school the day I receive my braces?

      Yes. There is no reason to miss school because of an orthodontic appointment.

    • Do you give shots?

      No. Shots are not necessary in orthodontic treatment.

    • Do you use recycled braces?

      Absolutely not! It is our belief that each patient should be provided with their own braces to achieve the best orthodontic result possible.

    • Can I still play sports?

      Yes. We recommend a mouth guard for all sports.

    • Do I need to see my family dentist while in braces?

      Yes! Regular checkups with your family dentist are important while in braces. Your family dentist will determine the intervals between cleaning appointments while you are in braces.

    • Are there foods I cannot eat while I have braces?

      Yes. Once treatment begins, we will explain the complete instructions and provide a comprehensive list of foods to avoid. Some of those foods include: ice, hard candy, raw vegetables and all sticky foods (i.e. caramel and taffy). You can avoid most emergency appointments to repair broken or damaged braces by carefully following our instructions.

    • How often should I brush my teeth while in braces?

      Patients should brush their teeth at least four times each day – after each meal and before going to bed. We will show each patient how to floss their teeth with braces and may also provide a prescription for a special fluoride, if necessary.

    • What is an emergency appointment? How are those handled?

      If your braces are causing extreme pain or if something breaks, you should call our office. In most cases, we can address these issues over the telephone. If you require an emergency appointment, we will set aside time for you.

    • Can orthodontic correction occur while a child has baby teeth?

      Yes. Some orthodontic problems are significant enough to require early intervention. However, if a patient is not yet ready for treatment, we will follow that patient’s growth and development until the time is right for treatment to begin.

    • What is Phase One (early) treatment?

      Phase One treatment, if necessary, is usually initiated on children between the ages of 7 and 10. Phase One treatment lasts about 12-21 months. The primary objective for Phase One treatment is to address significant problems to prevent them from becoming more severe and to improve self-esteem and self-image.

    • Will my child need full braces if he/she has Phase One treatment?

      It is best to assume that your child will need full braces even after Phase One treatment. The period following Phase One treatment is called the “resting period,” during which growth and tooth eruption are closely monitored. Throughout this period, parents and patients will be kept informed of future treatment recommendations.

    • Will my child need an expander?

      At the completion of the initial examination, we will determine whether a patient will need an expander.

    • Is it too late to have braces if I am already an adult?

      A surprising percentage of our patients are adults. In fact, 25 percent of all orthodontic patients are adults. Health, happiness and self-esteem are vitally important to adults. No patient is “too old” to wear braces!

    • Can I wear braces even though I have crowns and missing teeth?

      Yes. A tooth with a crown will move just like a tooth with a simple filling. When teeth are missing, orthodontic treatment will aid in the alignment of the remaining teeth.

    • Why should I choose an orthodontic specialist?

      Teeth, and sometimes entire facial structures, are permanently changed by orthodontic treatment. It is important that the treatment be appropriate and properly completed. Orthodontic specialists have extensive and specialized training that enables them to provide their patients with professional, personalized treatments.

  • Early

    ORTHODONTIC TREATMENTS

    • WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO BEGIN ORTHODONTICS?

      Though an orthodontist can enhance a smile at any age, there is an optimal time period to begin treatment. Beginning treatment at this time ensures the greatest result and the least amount of time and expense. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that the initial orthodontic evaluation should occur at the first sign of orthodontic problems or no later than age 7. Orthodontic treatment may not be necessary at this early age, but vigilant examination can anticipate the most advantageous time to begin treatment.

    • What are the benefits of early orthodontic evaluation?

      Early evaluation provides both timely detection of problems and greater opportunity for more effective treatment. Prudent intervention guides growth and development, preventing serious problems later. When orthodontic intervention is not necessary, an orthodontist can carefully monitor growth and development and begin treatment when it is ideal.

    • WHY IS AGE 7 CONSIDERED THE OPTIMAL TIME FOR SCREENING?

      By the age of 7, the first adult molars erupt, establishing the back bite. During this time, an orthodontist can evaluate front-to-back and side-to-side tooth relationships. For example, the presence of erupting incisors can indicate possible overbite, open bite, crowding, or gummy smiles. Orthodontic screenings at this age increase the chances of an incredible smile later.

    • WHAT ARE THE ADVANtAGES OF INTERCEPTIVE TREATMENT?

      Some of the most direct results of interceptive treatment are:

      • Creating room for crowded, erupting teeth
      • Creating facial symmetry through influencing jaw growth
      • Reducing the risk of trauma to protruding front teeth
      • Preserving space for unerupted teeth
      • Reducing the need for tooth removal
      • Reducing treatment time with braces

    • ARE YOU A CANDIDATE FOR ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT?

      Orthodontics is not merely for improving the aesthetics of the smile; orthodontic treatment improves bad bites (malocclusions). Malocclusions occur as a result of tooth or jaw misalignment. Malocclusions affect the way you smile, chew, clean your teeth or feel about your smile.

    • Why should malocclusions be treated?

      According to studies by the American Association of Orthodontists, untreated malocclusions can result in a variety of problems. Crowded teeth are more difficult to properly brush and floss, which may contribute to tooth decay and/or gum disease. Protruding teeth are more susceptible to accidental chipping. Crossbites can result in unfavorable growth and uneven tooth wear. Openbites can result in tongue-thrusting habits and speech impediments. Ultimately, orthodontics does more than make a pretty smile—it creates a healthier you.

  • Adult

    ORTHODONTIC TREATMENTS

    • Why should adults have orthodontic treatment?

      Braces aren’t just for kids anymore. Tooth alignment can be changed at any age if your gums and bone structure are healthy. We offer a variety of treatments that are designed for different age groups – including adults. A new smile can begin today.Orthodontic treatment at later stages in life can dramatically improve your personal appearance and self-esteem. Improving the health of your teeth and gums is equally important. Crooked teeth and a bad bite can contribute to gum and bone loss, tooth decay, abnormal wear of the tooth enamel and surfaces, headaches and jaw joint (TMJ/TMD) pain.Good news! The new techniques and appliances we use greatly reduce discomfort levels, decrease the frequency of visits, shorten treatment time and may allow you to choose from several options. Your options may include metal braces, translucent braces or transparent aligners that can be worn at night to improve mild cases of misaligned teeth.During the initial examination, we will be able to determine the best possible treatment for your individual needs. During this initial examination, we can outline the treatment plan, time of treatment expected and the approximate cost.A large percentage of our patients are adults, and they agree that it’s never too late to improve their greatest asset – their smile.

Parts of Traditional Braces For Teeth Alignment

HELPFUL INFORMATION

1

BANDS

Bands are the rings of metal that fit around the molars and sometimes premolars. Bands come in a wide range of sizes in order to provide the tightest fitting bands for every patient. The bands are sealed in position using dental cement that contains fluoride to prevent any decalcification during treatment.

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BRACKETS

The brackets hold the archwire against each tooth. Each bracket contains a slot for the archwire. Brackets may be attached directly to each tooth or to a band.

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ARCHWIRE

The main wires or archwires, are shaped specifically to fit around the arch into the bracket slots. Teeth move from the pressure that is applied by the braces. That pressure comes from the archwire, which guides the direction of the movement.

4

ELASTICS FOR TEETH ALIGNMENT

An elastic is the tiny rubber ring that ties the archwire into the bracket.

5

HOOKS

Hooks are small attachments on the brackets used to attach elastics (rubber bands).

6

COIL SPRING

The coil spring fits between brackets and over the archwire.

Glossary of Terms

ORTHODONTIC

  • Archwire

    A wire engaged in orthodontic attachments, affixed to the crowns of two or more teeth and capable of causing or guiding tooth movement.

  • Band (orthodontic)

    A thin metal ring, usually stainless steel, which serves to secure orthodontic attachments to a tooth. The band, with orthodontic attachments welded or soldered to it, is closely adapted to fit the contours of the tooth and then cemented into place.

  • Bracket

    An orthodontic attachment that is secured to a tooth (either by bonding or banding) for the purpose of engaging an archwire. Brackets can be fabricated from metal, ceramic or plastic.

  • Ceramic Brackets

    Crystalline, alumina, tooth-shade or clear synthetic sapphire brackets that are aesthetically more attractive than conventional metal attachments.

  • Crowding

    Dental malalignment caused by inadequate space for the teeth.

  • Elastics (rubber bands)

    Used to move teeth in prescribed directions (commonly connected to molar band and upper ball hook). Found in numerous colors for better appearance.

  • Gingiva

    The tissue that surrounds the teeth, consisting of a fibrous tissue that is continuous with the periodontal ligament and mucosal covering.

  • Headgear

    Generic term for extraoral traction (attached around the back side of the head) for growth modification, tooth movement and anchorage.

  • Herbst Appliance

    Generic term for extraoral traction (attached around the back side of the head) for growth modification, tooth movement and anchorage.

  • Imaging

    The process of acquiring representations of structures in either two or three dimensions.

  • Lingual

    Of or pertaining to the tongue. A term used to describe surfaces and directions toward the tongue.

  • Maxillary

    Of or pertaining to the upper jaw. May be used to describe teeth, dental restorations, orthodontic appliances or facial structures.

  • Orthodontist

    A dental specialist who has completed an advanced post-doctoral course, accredited by the American Dental Association, of at least two academic years in the special area of orthodontics.

  • Orthognathic Surgery

    Surgery to alter relationships of teeth and/or supporting bones, usually accomplished in conjunction with orthodontic therapy.

  • Overbite

    Vertical overlapping of upper teeth over lower teeth, usually measured perpendicular to the occlusal plane.

  • Radiograph

    A permanent image, performed digitally in our office, produced by ionizing radiation. Sometimes called an X-ray after the most common source of image-producing radiation.

  • Retainer

    Any orthodontic appliance, fixed or removable, used to maintain the position of the teeth following corrective treatment.

  • Retention

    The passive treatment period following active orthodontic correction during which retaining appliances may be used.

  • Straight Wire Appliance

    A variation of the edgewise appliance in which brackets are angulated to minimize multiple archwire bends. Brackets and molar tubes have specific orientation in three planes of space.