What is an orthodontist?
All orthodontists are dentists, but only about 6 percent of dentists are orthodontists. An orthodontist is a specialist in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. Orthodontists must first attend college, and then complete a four-year dental graduate program at a university dental school or other institution accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association (ADA). They must then successfully complete an additional two- to three-year residency program of advanced education in orthodontics. This residency program must also be accredited by the ADA. Through this training, the orthodontist learns the skills required to manage tooth movement (orthodontics) and guide facial development (dentofacial orthopedics).
Only dentists who have successfully completed this advanced specialty education may call themselves orthodontists.
What is the American Association of Orthodontists?
The American Association of Orthodontists is the national organization of dental specialists who limit their practice to orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics. Founded in 1900, the AAO is the oldest and largest dental specialty organization in the United States and Canada. To date, the AAO has more than 14,600 members, including more than 2,000 international members from outside North America. This membership consists of approximately 94 percent of all orthodontists who currently practice in the United States.
The AAO is dedicated to advancing the art and science of orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics, improving the health of the public by promoting quality orthodontic care, and supporting the successful practice of orthodontics. All members must meet the specialty educational requirements as defined by the Commission on Dental Education of the American Dental Association.
The American Dental Association has recognized that “specialists are necessary to protect the public, nurture the art and science of dentistry, and improve the quality of care.”
FAQ
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.
Metal braces are the most common type. They are made of high-grade stainless steel. Today’s metal braces are smaller, more comfortable and more attractive.
Ceramic braces are made of translucent (clear) material. They are most popular with adult patients, due to their cosmetic appeal. The only drawback to ceramic brackets are that they are more fragile, and the elastic ties can discolor between orthodontic visits.
Invisalign – Virtually undetectable, and hardly noticeable that you’re straightening your teeth.
- NO wires or brackets
- Elimination of common braces emergencies
- Using a series of clear, removable aligners that are almost invisible
- NO worries of hygiene issues due to brushing around brackets
- Eat whatever you like
- Available for ages 8 to 80
Clearly Different
The Invisalign® System combines advanced 3-D computer graphics technology with 100-year-old science of orthodontics. Invisalign® aligners are designed to move your teeth in small steps to the desired final position prescribed by Dr. McConnell. Each aligner is precisely calibrated and manufactured to fit your mouth at each stage of the treatment plan. Your first step is to visit our office to determine if Invisalign® is right for you. After sending precise treatment instructions, Invisalign® uses advanced computer technology to translate these instructions in a sequence of finely calibrated aligners. Each aligner is worn for one week and only taken out to eat, brush and floss. As you replace each aligner with the next, your teeth will begin to move gradually — week-by-week until the final alignment prescribed is attained. Then you’ll be smiling like you never have before!
Many of our patients had never considered traditional braces but are now happily and comfortably improving their smiles with Invisalign®.
HOW DOES INVISALIGN® WORK?
- Wear each set of Aligners for one week.
- Remove only to eat, drink, brush and floss.
- Your teeth will move gradually each week.
- Most visits are every 8-10 weeks.
MILLIONS of people worldwide have discovered INVISALIGN!
When we remove your braces, we will begin the retention stage of your treatment. Your final orthodontic result depends on your retainers, so follow through with the hard work you’ve put in so far. Remember to remove your retainer before brushing, and brush your retainer before placing it back in your mouth.
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