Orthodontics is the branch of dentistry that specializes in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. The field of orthodontics has been around for centuries, but it was not until the early 1700s that French dentist Pierre Fauchard pioneered many of the techniques used in modern orthodontics. In 1728, Fauchard published a book called “The Surgeon Dentist” in which he described the use of dental appliances to align teeth. Orthodontics has come a long way since then, and today there are many different types of braces and other devices that can be used to straighten teeth and improve a person’s smile.

While orthodontics is often regarded as a cosmetic procedure for the beautiful appearance of well-aligned teeth, its biggest impact is on the patient’s oral health. Crooked teeth are more difficult to clean, and this can lead to gum disease and tooth decay. Orthodontic treatment can help to correct these problems and improve overall oral health.

If you are considering orthodontic treatment, be sure to consult with our Bartlesville, OK team. We will be happy to evaluate your case and recommend the best course of treatment for you.

Traditional Braces

Traditional braces are one of the most well-known forms of orthodontic treatment. Popularized due to their ability to effectively and consistently treat a wide variety of dental alignment issues, traditional braces have been used by orthodontists for decades to help patients achieve straighter teeth and a healthier bite. Traditional braces consist of metal brackets that are affixed to the front surfaces of the teeth and connected by a thin wire. The wire is periodically tightened by the orthodontist to gradually move the teeth into their correct positions. 

While traditional braces do require more frequent visits to the orthodontist than other orthodontic options, they are proven to be highly effective in even the most severe cases of misalignment.

Clear Aligners

Clear aligners are a type of orthodontic treatment that uses a series of clear, plastic trays to gradually straighten teeth. The aligners are custom-made for each patient and feature a personalized plan that helps establish a schedule for wearing each aligner before moving on to the next. Treatment with clear aligners typically takes between six and twelve months, based on the severity of the misalignment.

The benefit that sets aligners apart from braces is that they are removable, so patients can take them out to eat their favorite meals and clean their teeth as usual. There is no need to avoid certain foods or hassle while brushing and flossing around brackets and wires. Overall, you can enjoy life as normal while progressing through your treatment!

If you are considering clear aligners as an orthodontic treatment option, be sure to consult with our team! We will be able to assess your individual case and develop a customized treatment plan to help you achieve your desired results.

HealthyStart®

HealthyStart orthodontics is a system of early interceptive treatment that helps guide the development of your child’s smile and jaw development. By starting treatment at an early age, we can often avoid the need for more invasive or expensive procedures later on. HealthyStart is unique in that it uses gentle, minimally invasive techniques to gradually guide your child’s teeth into their proper positions. This not only helps improve their smile but can also improve their overall health. 

Some of the benefits of HealthyStart orthodontics include:

• Improving the facial structure for better dental and general health
• Reducing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease
• Helping to correctly align the teeth and jaws to improve function
• Improving speech development
• Creating a more pleasing smile