How to Know If You Should See An Orthodontist?
One of the most frequent questions people ask us is how to know if they need to see an orthodontist. It can be challenging to provide an answer without a thorough consultation. Even if your teeth look straight, there may be underlying concerns that aren’t immediately visible. While these bite discrepancies aren’t as noticeable as crooked teeth, they can seriously damage your oral health.
Only orthodontic specialists can thoroughly evaluate your needs. Some telltale signs that you may need orthodontic treatment include:
- Gapped, jagged, or missing teeth
- Crowded or overlapping teeth
- Crooked teeth
- Misaligned bottom and top teeth
- Jaw irregularity
During your complimentary exam, we will gather information and diagnostic data. After a comprehensive evaluation of your smile—including 3D digital scans, digital X-rays, and photos—we will discuss your treatment options. You will have ample time to talk about treatment options with Drs. Harvey and Thomas.
Our goal is to make orthodontic care affordable to everyone. We don’t believe that your finances should get in the way of a great smile. Whether you need Damon Braces, Damon Clear Ceramic Braces, clear aligners, or other treatment modalities, we will find a solution that matches your lifestyle.
Schedule a complimentary consultation with the experts at Harvey and Thomas Orthodontics now!
Types of Orthodontic Treatment
Enjoying a more natural smile is easier than ever. Modern breakthroughs have changed the alignment experience with convenient and comfortable treatments that are light years ahead of the appliances you may remember from growing up.
Harvey and Thomas Orthodontics specializes in leading the orthodontics industry. That’s why we use the most advanced braces technology available for your smile. Damon System Braces— available in metal or Clear Ceramic—and clear aligners are at the forefront of alignment science. Find out more about your options during a complimentary consultation.
Learn more about the types of orthodontic treatment offered at Harvey and Thomas Orthodontics.
DAMON CLEAR CERAMIC BRACES
Also known as ceramic braces, clear braces offer an unbeatable level of comfort with a stylish profile. Clear braces are made of a translucent ceramic that virtually disappears into the patient’s mouth. Plus, they are made with a high-grade ceramic that provides a lasting and unforgettable smile.
DAMON BRACES
Damon Braces use a self-ligating bracket that doesn’t require manual adjustment appointments. The Damon System features contoured components that fit comfortably in your mouth. The thickness and strength of the wire will change depending on where you are in your treatment cycle. Wearers of Damon Braces enjoy a less visible treatment with fewer in-office appointments.
CLEAR ALIGNERS
Clear aligners offer a nearly-invisible treatment experience that prioritizes comfort and discretion. Patients with clear aligners must keep their aligners in for at least 20-22 hours every day and regularly replace their aligners. We offer clear aligner options from Invisalign, Spark, and our own affordable in-house service.
How Does Orthodontic Treatment Work?
There are many different options for your orthodontic experience. While there are many different types of orthodontic treatment, they all observe a similar principle. They all apply gradual force to align the teeth, which rejuvenates your smile.
Your treatment may consist of a couple of different components:
- Braces (brackets) connected to a wire apply gentle pressure that gradually straightens (align) teeth, thereby improving your smile.
- Clear plastic aligners, similarly, may be used to accomplish tooth alignment and smile enhancement as well.
- Other auxiliaries, i.e., elastic rubber bands or springs, are often used in conjunction with braces and aligners. These auxiliaries correct crooked bites and make the top and bottom jaws fit seamlessly together.
At Harvey and Thomas Orthodontics, we pride ourselves on getting better results with less invasive, more conservative treatment modalities. Our orthodontic specialists will never prescribe headgear for your child, and things like expanders and permanent teeth removal are essentially a thing of the past as well! While we’re big into non-extraction, there are circumstances where we may recommend the removal of teeth.
Once you complete your treatment, you will need to wear a retainer. Without a retainer, your teeth will want to drift back to their original alignment.
Retainers come in removable and fixed designs. In order to get ideal results, we advocate leveraging both methods. Both of these options are included as part of your treatment fee.
First, by wearing a fixed wire retainer, you will help your upper and lower front teeth. We bond this appliance in place but will make exceptions if you specifically request no glued-in wires.
Secondly, wearing one of our 3D printed, custom-fit, special polymer, airway-conscious removable retainers will help your new smile stand the test of time.
The Best Orthodontist in Mobile, Alabama
The experts at Harvey and Thomas Orthodontics know that your smile is one of your most valuable assets. We pledge to provide you with quality service and a premium customer experience.
It’s always a great time to enjoy the perks of a natural and full smile. We are proud to help people across the Mobile area with Damon Braces, Damon Clear Ceramic Braces, clear aligners and more! Get started with a complimentary consultation!