Monthly Archives

March 2018

Mar 14
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Do Young Children Need Braces?

By | Blog

When it comes to braces for children, it’s hard to know all the right steps to take as a parent. When do I bring my child to their first dental check-up? What is an Orthodontist and why is important to see them in addition to my dentist? How young is too young for braces?

Orthodontists and Dentists

First, it’s important to know the difference between and Orthodontist and a Dentist. Dentistry is a branch of medicine that consists of the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases, disorders and conditions of the teeth (i.e. cavities, fillings, crowns, veneers, etc.). Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry which specialises in the treatment of alignment in teeth and jaws. These alignment problems are treated with braces fro children, teens and adults.

The First Assessment

The American Association of Orthodontics recommends bringing children in for their first orthodontic assessment at age 7 (but it can be sooner if there are particular concerns over the alignment of teeth). Some bite issues are hard to see to the untrained eye, so it is important to bring your child in to be assessed when they are young. Since the teeth and jaws are still developing at this stage, we have a better opportunity to correct any problems before growth is complete with particular braces for children. With kids, Orthodontists mainly use “phase 1” or “early orthodontic treatment” to correct bite or jaw issues with specialty braces/devices. This treatment starts between 6-10 years of age (when the adult teeth are coming in) and about 1 in 5 children need it.

Early Braces For Children

We offer 3 types of early orthodontic treatment at our clinic:

  1. Functional braces
  2. URA “upper removable appliance” braces
  3. Invisalign clear braces with wings

Recently, Invisalign has released a new, innovative brace specifically for early orthodontic treatment in children. At the moment, we are the only practice in the country to use this modern technology!

Is Your Child Ready?

While some children are ready for early treatment, some may not be. If so, the Orthodontist will keep your details in their system to review your child in the future (when more of the adult teeth are in). We advise parents to be proactive with their children’s teeth and bring to see both a Dentist and Orthodontist to check the overall health and alignment of their teeth.

Want to bring your child in for an orthodontic assessment? We are offering complimentary consultations to children during the Easter School Holidays at our clinic in Blackrock, Dublin!

 

Mar 01
0

Can I Have Invisalign Clear Braces?

By | Blog

When most people think of orthodontics, they imagine unsightly and painful metal braces. However, recent advances in orthodontic care allow patients to straighten their teeth without metal wires and brackets. If you’re looking for a discreet teeth straightening option, you should strongly consider Invisalign.

Invisalign technology uses clear plastic aligner trays to slowly move your teeth into their correct positions.

What Problems Does Invisalign Fix?

Gaps: Gaps can leave your teeth vulnerable to decay and your gums vulnerable to infection. Invisalign can easily bring teeth together and close considerable gaps.

Crowding: Crowding occurs when the teeth grow too close together and displace each other. Crowding makes it difficult to floss and brush properly and can increase one’s risk of gum disease or tooth decay.

Improper Bite: The misalignment of teeth can lead to an improper bite, which can in turn cause a number of jaw complications. Common bite problems include an overbite, underbite, and crossbite. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder is one condition associated with bite issues.

 

The Benefits of Invisalign

Though many people recognise the aesthetic and medical drawbacks that can come with an un-straightened smile, many still have been unconvinced to pursue orthodontic treatment due to the many drawbacks that come with traditional braces. After all, who wants uncomfortable and unsightly metal braces? Now, you don’t have to settle for metal braces when straightening your teeth. Invisalign can straighten almost any set of teeth in a matter of months. Here are just a few benefits you can expect when straightening your teeth with Invisalign.

Discreet Straightening: Thanks to Invisalign’s clear plastic trays, no one will know that you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment unless you tell them. Since the trays are removable, you can clean your teeth and eat as you normally would.

Boosted Confidence: Frequent smiling is an important indicator of confidence. Invisalign can give you a straight, good-looking smile that you aren’t afraid to show off. This can drastically improve others’ perceptions of you.

Improved Oral Health: If malocclusion is making it difficult for you to clean your teeth or chew your food properly, it’s only a matter of time before you start noticing considerable health problems. A straight set of teeth is important for your appearance and your overall wellbeing.

 

How to Choose the Right Orthodontist

If you have crooked teeth and would like to discuss your treatment options you should consult with a specialist orthodontist.

For the best results, selecting an experienced Orthodontist can make all the difference.

Dr O’Donnell is an expert in Invisalign and all types of orthodontic treatment. She will always talk to you about all your options. We will evaluate your specific issues on your initial consultation. Creating beautiful smiles no matter how challenging is what we do!

 

Schedule a Complimentary Consultation Today

As a new patient, you can take advantage of a FREE initial consultation. The friendly team at (INSERT) Orthodontics will make you feel comfortable and pampered as we discuss you or your child’s smile, explain your treatment options and provide the information you need to make a wise decision about your oral health.

Call us today on (01) 210 4588 or fill out a contact us form.

 

Dr O’Donnell Is proud to be part of the Your Smile Specialist group of leading Specialist Orthodontist.