Though an orthodontist can enhance a smile at any age, there is an optimal time period to begin treatment. Beginning treatment at this time ensures the greatest result and the least amount of time and expense. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that the initial orthodontic evaluation should occur at the first sign of orthodontic problems or no later than age 7. At this early age, orthodontic treatment may not be necessary, but vigilant examination can anticipate the most advantageous time to begin treatment.

Invisalign®, Invisalign Teen®, and Clear Aligners

Invisalign® and clear aligners are a series of removable trays that are custom made to hug and move your teeth a little at a time using plastic and in some cases move teeth more effectively than traditional braces. The trays are removable which makes eating and brushing/flossing that much easier.

Clear (Ceramic) Braces

Ceramic braces are the beautiful clear braces that match the teeth! The great thing about these is you can add colors and make them pop or use with clear ties and have them blend in depending on what you have going on that month. While they are less prominent, they do require more attention to oral hygiene as ceramic braces are larger and more brittle than the metal. For this reason ceramics tend to be used more for older teenagers and adults usually on the top teeth more than the lower.

Metal Braces

Metal braces are the most common type of braces and are smaller and more comfortable than ever. They are durable, easy to keep clean, and can be dressed up with different colored elastics bands for a unique smile every month.

Interceptive Orthodontic Treatment

This type of treatment often occurs between the ages of 8-10 years and is intended to lessen the severity of developing oral problems.

Comprehensive Orthodontic Treatment

This is the terminology used to describe full braces. Dr. Evan Cox treats children, adolescents and adults.

Dentofacial Orthopedics

This is the process of modifying and/or directing jaw growth in a favorable manner. This is frequently employed in children and adolescents to correct bite problems associated with jaw imbalances.

Surgical Orthodontics

This involves comprehensive orthodontic treatment (full braces) to align the teeth and jaw surgery to correct the bite. This treatment is generally indicated for an individual with substantial jaw imbalances and little to no growth potential remaining.

Temporary Anchorage Devices (TADS)

TADS are titanium mini screws that can be placed between the roots of teeth or in the roof of the mouth. They work as tiny anchors from which to apply force. TADS may eliminate the need for headgear and help perform movements that cannot otherwise be accomplished without extensive elastic wear or jaw surgery.

Braces Safe Foods

Soft food such as pasta, rice, soft bread, mashed potatoes, apple sauce, bananas, soft cooked chicken and seafood, meatballs, lunch meat, cooked vegetables, Jell-O, ice cream, chocolate, plus anything else you can think of that is soft and gentle for your braces!

Foods to Avoid with Braces

Sticky foods – laughy taffy, caramel, licorice
Crunchy foods – Hard granola bars, chips, popcorn, ice
Hard foods – hard candies, nuts, pita chips
Foods you bite into – apples , corn on the cob, carrots

Food/Drinks with Aligners or Retainers

During clear aligner treatment and when wearing clear retainers, it is important to remove your appliances while eating or drinking anything other than water. Drinking any other liquids may cause cavities or permanent staining on your teeth. Always remove trays, brush after eating, and replace the trays right away.