If Dr. Bordeaux recommends starting orthodontic treatment at this time, diagnostic records, which take approximately 30 to 45 minutes to complete, are made to determine the best course of treatment. Complete diagnostic records typically include a medical/dental history, clinical examination, plaster study models of the teeth, photos of the patients face and teeth, and digital X-rays. This information is used to develop a custom treatment plan for each patient. These records are also helpful in tracking the progress of treatment as the teeth move under orthodontic care.
After Dr. Bordeaux has evaluated the diagnostic records of the patients case, he will discuss the personalized treatment options/plan in detail. This will be presented visually on computer with our consult program, thus ensuring your understanding of the recommendations.
Bordeaux Orthodontics accepts assignment from most insurance plans. Insurance coverage will be confirmed upon arrival at the office to help you determine available benefits. Assignment of benefits to us is available in most instances, and we will bill your company as a courtesy to you. We will help in every way we can in filing your claim and handling insurance questions from our office on your behalf.
Though an orthodontist can enhance a smile at any age, there is an optimal time period to begin treatment. Many orthodontic problems are easier to correct if detected at an early age before jaw growth has slowed. Early treatment may mean that a patient can avoid surgery and more serious complications. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child first visit an orthodontist by age 7 or earlier if a problem is detected by parents, the family dentist or the childs physician. At this early age, orthodontic treatment may not be necessary, but vigilant examination can anticipate the most advantageous time to begin treatment.
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.
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. Phase I, or early interceptive treatment, is limited orthodontic treatment (i.e. expander or partial braces) before all of the permanent teeth have erupted. Such treatment can occur between the ages of six and ten. Timely screening increases the chances for an incredible smile.
Creating room for crowded, erupting teeth Creating facial symmetry through influencing jaw growth Reducing the risk of trauma to protruding front teeth Correcting crossbites, overbites, underbites or harmful oral habits Preserving space for unerupted teeth Reducing the need for tooth removal Reducing treatment time with full braces
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.
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. Cross bites can result in unfavorable growth and uneven tooth wear. Open bites can result in tongue-thrusting habits and speech impediments. Ultimately, orthodontics does more than make a pretty smile-it creates a healthier you.