Orthodontic Treatment
Patient Education on Orthodontic Treatment
What Is Orthodontics?
Patient education is the foundation of a good relationship between you and your orthodontic team. Orthodontics is the specialty of dentistry focused on the diagnosis and treatment of dental and associated facial irregularities. The results of orthodontic treatment can be dramatic — beautiful smiles, improved dental health and an enhanced quality of life for many people of all ages.
Orthodontic problems, which can result from genetic and environmental factors, must be diagnosed by your orthodontist in McAllen TX before treatment begins. Proper diagnosis involves taking photographs, X-rays, and dental impressions, which enable our practice to make informative decisions about the form of treatment necessary.
Common Orthodontic Problems in Adults and Children
In children, common concerns include crowding, where teeth don’t have enough room to erupt properly, as well as spacing issues and malocclusions such as crossbites, overbites, and underbites. Early thumb-sucking habits or prolonged pacifier use can also contribute to bite problems that benefit from timely orthodontic evaluation.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children receive their first orthodontic screening around age 7, when early intervention can make a meaningful difference. The purpose of these screenings is both to assess emerging orthodontic problems the child may have and to provide education to parents on their child’s development.
Adults often seek care for many of the same concerns, including crowding, gaps between teeth, protruding front teeth, and bite misalignment that was never addressed in childhood. Tooth shifting after a previous treatment or following tooth loss is also a frequent reason adults pursue care. No matter your age, a skilled orthodontist in McAllen TX can evaluate your smile and recommend a treatment path that fits your needs and goals.
Orthodontic Services Offered At Freels Orthodontics
Dr. Freels has completed years of specialized education and training to be able to provide our McAllen patients with the highest quality of care. Here at Freels Orthodontics, we are pleased to offer orthodontic services, including:
- Clear Aligners: Using gradual force, clear aligners gently move teeth into alignment without the use of metal wires or brackets. Clear aligners are made with very strong plastic material that is fabricated specifically to fit the patient’s teeth.
- Damon Braces: Using a combination of tieless brackets and high-tech archwires, Damon braces have been clinically proven to be a faster, more comfortable alternative to traditional braces.
- Interceptive Orthodontics: Phase 1 orthodontic treatment reduces the need for tooth extraction and jaw surgery, corrects certain problems as they appear, encourages better facial development, shortens the length of orthodontic treatment needed later on, and leaves patients with a better overall result in the end.
- Invisalign: The inconvenience and discomfort often associated with traditional braces keep some of our patients from wanting to straighten their teeth. For these patients, Invisalign could be the perfect solution.
- Lingual Braces: These braces attach to the inside surface of your teeth, also known as the “lingual” or tongue side. This makes your orthodontic care invisible to the rest of the world.
- Opal Seal: This sealant and primer in one helps us prime your teeth for brackets to keep them firmly in place. At the same time, it acts as a seal to protect your teeth from decalcification and decay.
- Orthodontic Emergencies: As a rule, if you experience severe pain or have an appliance problem you can’t take care of on your own, call our office and schedule an appointment.
- Orthodontic Mouthguards: Braces are an investment worth protecting. Even if you don’t always wear a mouthguard while playing sports, you’ll want to reconsider while wearing braces.
- Retention: The reason we need retainers in order to keep our teeth in their post-braces position is that it takes time for our teeth, gums, and jaw bones to get used to this new arrangement.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Orthodontic Process
How do I know if I need orthodontic treatment?
The best way to find out is through a professional evaluation. Many people don’t realize they have a bite or alignment issue until an orthodontist identifies it. Common signs include crowded or overlapping teeth, difficulty chewing, jaw discomfort, and teeth that don’t meet evenly. We offer free initial consultations as part of our commitment to accessible patient education.
How long does orthodontic treatment typically take?
Treatment typically lasts from 6 to 30 months, depending on age and the severity of the orthodontic problem. Outstanding results are also dependent on our relationship with you and your commitment to your appointments. We are committed to delivering the best possible service in order for you to achieve your beautiful smile.
Will I need to wear a retainer after treatment?
Yes. Retainers are a critical part of the process and a topic we emphasize in patient education at every stage of treatment. After braces or aligners are removed, teeth can shift back toward their original positions. Wearing your retainer as directed protects your results for the long term.
How Dr. Freels Can Help
If you want to feel great about your smile and would like a consultation, please give Freels Orthodontics a quick call at 956.631.8181. We would love to listen to your concerns and find a treatment plan that is perfect for you from your orthodontist in McAllen TX.