Treatments
Orthodontics for All Ages
Early Treatment
Early treatment can be a highly rewarding form of treatment for eligible children. This treatment takes advantage of the child’s stage of development to guide growth in a way that is beneficial toward the final goal of aligned teeth. Jaw and bite relationships can benefit from this type of treatment. The window for early treatment is usually between the ages of 9-11 years of age, highlighting the importance of early orthodontic screening. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that most children should have an orthodontic screening by age 7. This allows Dr. Quirk and Dr. Wheeler to determine if orthodontic treatment will be required and the best time for the patient to be treated.
Traditional Treatment
Traditional treatment usually takes place when the patient is a teenager. This treatment can be a follow-up to early treatment or part of a first approach to enhancing a patient’s smile. The patient usually has almost all of their permanent teeth. Jaw adjustments are usually possible because growth can be modified at this time. Treatments at this age typically include braces, clear aligners, and other appliances when needed. The goal is to align the teeth and correct the bite relationship to create an aesthetically balanced smile.
Adult Treatment
It is never too late to seek orthodontic treatment. You can align your teeth and enhance your overall facial symmetry regardless of age. However, there are a few key differences while treating adult patients. Adult patients have jaws that are completely done growing. Any major jaw adjustments would require orthognathic surgery. However, adults can still achieve amazing results without surgery. In terms of treatments for adults, we offer aesthetic options including clear braces and clear aligners to choose from.
Clear Braces
Ceramic braces work just like traditional metal braces with one key difference: ceramic braces are more discreet. Ceramic braces are made of clear materials that make them less visible on the teeth. There is a trade-off, Ceramic braces are larger and more brittle than their metal counterparts. We know that aesthetic concerns are a top priority to all patients and for this reason, we recommend clear braces on the upper teeth to all of our patients.
Metal Braces
Traditional metal braces involve metal brackets made of high-grade stainless steel and an archwire to guide movement. These braces are the most dependable appliance because they have been around the longest. However, this does not mean that traditional metal braces have not evolved. Today’s metal braces are smaller, more comfortable, and more effective than ever before. You can also customize your braces with colored elastics to express yourself through your smile.
Clear Aligners
Invisalign & 3M Clarity
Clear aligners offer an aesthetic alternative to braces. At QW Orthodontics, we put forward two kinds of aligners: Invisalign and 3M Clarity. Both are very high-quality brands. The aligners consist of removable clear trays that allow for maximum flexibility while undergoing treatment. The aligners are virtually invisible and can be removed to eat, perform your oral health routine, or even play an instrument. These aligners blend directly into your new routine.
Retainers
Retainers are a crucial part of maintaining the results you have worked so hard for! Your retainer can be removable or fixed and its job is to keep your teeth in their new spots long enough for the bone around them to harden. Dr. Quirk and Dr. Wheeler will prescribe the correct retainer for you and will instruct you on how to care for it and how often to wear it. If you fail to use your retainer as instructed, you risk the possibility of regression of your teeth to their original spots.