Two-phase treatment
Your dentist may have discussed with you the benefits of having healthy teeth and proper jaw alignment. Crooked and crowded teeth are hard to clean and maintain which can result in tooth decay, worsened gum disease, and tooth loss. Other orthodontic problems can contribute to abnormal wear of tooth surfaces, inefficient chewing function, excessive stress on gum tissue and the bone that supports the teeth, or the misalignment of the jaw joints. These can lead to chronic headaches and face or neck pain. Treatment by an orthodontist can be more affordable than the additional care required to treat dental problems arising because of orthodontic problems. For most people, a beautiful smile is the most obvious benefit of orthodontics, and when your braces come off, you’ll feel more confident. Here at Crawford Orthodontics, we’re proud to be one of the top Lincoln braces providers.
We offer traditional braces, ceramic braces, Invisalign®, and ClearCorrect(™) Aligners.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends children see an orthodontist no later than age 7. Although most children do not need early treatment and can wait to have braces until all their adult teeth are in (about age 11-12), it is best to see an orthodontist early to evaluate their orthodontic needs. The first permanent molars and incisors have usually come in by that time and crossbites, crowding, and other problems can be evaluated. When treatment is begun early, the orthodontist can guide the growth of the jaw and guide incoming permanent teeth. Early detection and intervention of some dental problems can prevent more difficult and lengthier treatment in the future.
At the complimentary consultation, Dr. Crawford and Dr. Graff will thoroughly evaluate facial balance and any orthodontic needs your child may have, including an extensive TMJ (temporomandibular joint) evaluation. He will then determine if orthodontic treatment is necessary and when the best time to begin treatment would be. He will ensure that you are recommended the right Lincoln braces treatment for your unique situation.
Dr. Crawford and Dr. Graff will explain what the orthodontic concerns are, how they can be treated, and the approximate length of treatment time needed to give your child the best possible smile and result. Our friendly staff will give an estimate of how much your orthodontic investment will be and check your insurance benefits if needed. We’ll work hard to provide quality, low cost braces your child.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends children see an orthodontist no later than age 7. Although it is usually best to wait for all of the permanent teeth to come in before starting orthodontic treatment, there are a few occasions when early treatment is needed. Early intervention can help prevent abnormal wear of teeth, injury to protruding teeth, and some disproportionate growth of the jaws. Underbites, overbites, crossbites, and excessive crowding are also main concerns that can be evaluated during your child’s first visit. Also, teasing from peers and poor self-esteem can dictate early treatment. Dr. Crawford and Dr. Graff will make sure your child is treated at the most appropriate age.
At the complimentary consultation, Dr. Crawford or Dr. Graff will thoroughly evaluate facial balance and any orthodontic needs your child may have. He will also conduct an extensive TMJ (temporomandibular joint) evaluation. He can then determine if orthodontic treatment is indicated and when the best time to begin treatment would be.
If early treatment is indicated, then treatment will consist of fixing the immediate and serious problems with appliances and/or braces. Phase 1 treatment usually lasts 12-18 months. After the significant problems are solved, the child will be placed in a resting period where their teeth are allowed to come in without their Lincoln braces.
In this phase, the remaining permanent teeth are allowed to erupt. Selective removal of certain primary (baby) teeth may promote proper eruption of permanent teeth during this resting phase. Therefore, periodic recall appointments for observation are necessary, usually on a six-month basis. In other words, the first phase of treatment facilitates appropriate tooth position, but a second phase of treatment is necessary to finalize the bite and smile after all permanent teeth are present.
The goal of the second phase is to make sure each tooth has an exact location in the mouth where it is in harmony with the lips, cheeks, tongue, and other teeth. When this equilibrium is established, the teeth will function together properly. Braces are usually needed for an average of 24 months in this phase. Retainers are worn after braces are removed in order to ensure you retain your beautiful smile. If you're interested in investing in dependable, low cost braces for your child, turn to the team at Crawford Orthodontics.
There is no age limit to when you can give yourself a beautiful, confident smile. One of every five patients in orthodontic treatment is over 21. With new technologies such as Invisalign and ceramic braces, more adults are receiving orthodontic treatment now than ever before. If you have concerns about your teeth or facial balance, you can have your questions answered at your complimentary consultation with the Lincoln braces specialists at Crawford Orthodontics!
At your initial examination, Dr. Crawford or Dr. Graff will thoroughly evaluate facial balance and any orthodontic needs you may have, including an extensive TMJ (temporomandibular joint) evaluation. The doctors will then determine if orthodontic treatment is indicated and give treatment options that would benefit you the most.
Jaw surgery is more often required for adult orthodontic patients because their jaws are not growing. Adults also may have experienced some breakdown or loss of their teeth and bone that supports the teeth and may require periodontal treatment before, during, and/or after orthodontic treatment. We require our adult patients to have cleanings at least 3 times a year. Bone loss can also limit the amount and direction of tooth movement that is advisable.
Dr. Crawford or Dr. Graff will explain what the orthodontic concerns are, how they can be treated, and the approximate length of treatment time needed to give you the best possible smile and result. Our friendly staff will give an estimate of how much your orthodontic investment will be and also check on your insurance benefits if needed. You’re sure to receive the right low cost braces treatment for you.
