Orthodontic treatment is not “one size fits all”. Each patient is unique
and treatment plans are individualized accordingly. Listed below
are the different types of treatment. Please note, depending on the
clinical presentation at the time of visit, not all treatments are
applicable to every patient.
Interceptive treatment
This constitutes relatively mild to moderate intervention when
children are in mixed dentition (ages 6-9). This type of intervention
is targeted and not comprehensive.
Examples include maintenance of space, tooth rotation, reduction
of tooth overlap, correction of cross bite or reduction in tooth flaring. When most of the
permanent teeth have erupted the patient is re-evaluated for further orthodontic treatment.
Phase I treatment
This type of treatment is for those patients whose growth patterns indicate that more complex dentition
problems are likely to develop unless early intervention is implemented. Patients who are candidates
for Phase I treatment are typically in middle/late dentition (ages 8-12).
Examples include expansion appliances and functional appliances. When most of the permanent teeth
have erupted the patient is re-evaluated for further orthodontic treatment.
Comprehensive treatment
This type of treatment generally refers to full fixed braces
for children or adults. Fixed braces can be applied to patients
in late mixed or permanent dentition.
Typical patients are in this type of treatment to reduce flaring,
overlap, alignment, and correction of malocclusion. Once
completed, long-term retention is generally required.
Adult treatment
Sometimes adults are hesitant to enter into orthodontic treatment
because “braces are for kids”. However, recent advancements in orthodontic treatment methods that are less noticeable than
standard metal braces — including ceramic braces, IncognitoTM,
Invisalign® and In-Ovation® L — have made adult treatment a
viable option for many.
Corrective jaw surgery (orthognathic surgery) treats and corrects abnormalities of the facial bones,
specifically the jaws and the teeth. Often, these abnormalities cause difficulty associated with chewing,
talking, sleeping and other routine activities.Orthognathic surgery corrects these problems and, in
conjunction with orthodontic treatment, will improve the overall appearance of the facial profile and
facial aesthetic.
Orthognathic surgery is only recommended if orthodontic treatment cannot correct the problem.
With the latest advances in orthodontics, surgery can be avoided in most cases. In consultation
with
an oral surgeon, we will determine whether orthognathic surgery is the optimal treatment option.
There are a variety of orthodontic options for adult patients. To find out which option is best suited
for your condition, please discuss with Dr. Ta.