Orthodontics

These problems can be caused by the prolonged use of pacifiers or by sucking thumbs in infancy, injuries, or because one's teeth and jaw are growing at different speeds.

Orthodontic appliances like dental braces and retainers put pressure on your teeth and jaws in order to push or pull them into alignment, to close gaps or to remove overlaps.

Additional Benefits

Fixing your teeth can provide benefits you may have never imagined. Poorly aligned teeth may hurt your tongue or gums. They may not allow proper chewing and affect digestion. Irregularities in the roof of your mouth may block nasal cavities and lead to breathing difficulties. Oral bacteria that dissolves calcium and pushes it into the arteries may cause cardiovascular disease. People who wear braces naturally learn how to take good care of their teeth and reducing oral bacteria in their mouths.

The Right Age for Orthodontic Treatment

Although orthodontic treatment can begin at any age, orthodontists recommend interceptive treatment when a child is 8 or 9 years old. This is usually when one's permanent teeth are coming into place. Interceptive treatment can reduce the period of wearing braces by 3 to 6 months. Plus, the later treatment starts the more it hurts.

Orthodontic treatment takes 2 to 2 1/2 years to complete. Your regular dentist may recommend an orthodontist. It is always best to get a second opinion before you start such treatment. After an initial assessment, the orthodontist may use braces, headgear, or a face bow.

You will have to visit your orthodontist about once a month to have your braces checked and adjusted. And when your braces are removed, you may have to wear retainers for some time. Some types of these are metal, invisalign, adult, ceramic, lingual and clear dental braces. If you don't like the idea of being seen in adult braces, you can choose invisalign, invisible braces.

Cost of Dental Braces

Orthodontic treatment for two years involving braces on the upper and lower teeth should cost you about $5000. Dental schools may provide you with a cheaper option. You can check to see if your health plan covers such treatment. Ceramic brackets, x-rays, extractions, special appliances, etc., are all extra.

You may well say that $5000 is a lot of money, but then a smile is worth at least that, isn't it?

For a complimentary examination appointment to check the condition of your teeth for any symptoms requiring our orthodontics services, please contact us online or call 650-965-1234.

We'll answer any questions you may have, and give you a free written estimate regarding costs and insurance benefits before you leave.

Call us today!

Dr. Burch