"Can you straighten my teeth?" is the most common question patients ask when they visit an orthodontist. Here are some things that may help us answer that question for you.
Although one of the main by-products of treatment is straight teeth, orthodontics is mainly the treatment of growth or functional problems which cause malocclusion (incorrect bite) in the teeth.
Because each case is unique, the orthodontist must have a thorough knowledge of anatomy of the mouth, face, and head as well as an understanding of growth and development and apply that knowledge to the individual. In addition, the orthodontist must be aware of potential problems a patient may have with growth and development which would lead to the emergence of orthodontic problems. This knowledge is gained through a two to three year post-graduate program in orthodontics preceded by a four year program in dental school and an undergraduate college degree.
Beyond evaluating how to straighten the teeth, orthodontists must examine a number of elements such as:
In diagnosis, the orthodontist must take all these elements into consideration and, by applying forces to and through the teeth, modify the growth patterns and muscular and skeletal structures of the patient.
It is because so much training and knowledge is required to recognize and properly diagnose each case that Briss Orthodontics insists on a high degree of doctor-patient involvement. The orthodontist plans the treatment and discusses the treatment options with patients and parents and treats each patient at every visit.
For more information on Orthodontics and Orthodontic Treatment, visit the American Association of Orthodontists online.
Initial Consultation
During this first visit, the orthodontist performs a preliminary examination. From this exam, the doctor will be able to determine if and when treatment will be required. Adults can usually start treatment immediately. Young children may not need to start immediately unless treatment is required to correct problems that warrant early intervention. For children under 18 years of age, this initial consultation is free.
You can book an initial consultation by calling our office at 978-256-2526. Initial visits are usually about 15 to 20 minutes in length.
Diagnosis and Treatment
The first step prior to beginning treatment is a one-hour visit which involves the gathering of diagnostic records.
The diagnostic records include:
At the next visit, the Case Presentation, the orthodontist will review the records with adult patients or with the parents of patients under 18. At this time, the doctor will outline the intended treatment plan and the length of treatment.
Active treatment begins when active tooth moving appliances (braces) are placed on the teeth. The length of treatment can range from as little as a few months to as much as three or four years depending on the individual circumstances.
Treatment can involve either fixed appliances, ones that cannot be removed by the patient, or removable appliances or a combination of both. Braces are the most common fixed appliance used to begin treatment. Braces are placed at a scheduled 2-1/2 hour visit.
Once the braces are placed, treatment proceeds with regularly scheduled visits in which the orthodontist will assess the progress of treatment and will adjust existing appliances as necessary or will fit new appliances. At Briss Orthodontics, patients are treated personally by the orthodontist at each visit.
A true family practice, Dr. David S. Briss and staff at Briss Orthodontics are committed to providing high quality treatment in a pleasant and comfortable atmosphere. Dr. Briss is committed to providing as much personal treatment as possible. He is also a faculty member at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, allowing him to keep up-to-date on the latest techniques and materials.
A truly family practice, you will meet Dr. David S. Briss and Mrs. Sharon Briss, our office manager, with occasional visits from Dr. Barry Briss and our former office manager, Mrs. Ann Briss, and our part-time greeter, Miss Molly Briss.
We are dedicated to providing the highest quality treatment and to treating each patient with dignity, respect and caring. This dedication involves continual expansion of skills and knowledge, high involvement in the orthodontic community, being available to our patients, and respecting our patients' time by staying on schedule with appointments and treatment as much as possible.
Member of the American Association of Orthodontists
E.&O.E.