Orthodontic Treatment

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 people of all ages. Orthodontic problems, which can result from genetic as well as environmental factors, must be diagnosed before treatment begins. Proper diagnosis involves taking photographs, x-rays, and dental impressions, which enable Dr. Westbrook to make informative decisions about the form of treatment necessary.

Treatment typically lasts from 6 to 30 months, depending on the patient's age, and the severity of the specific orthodontic problem. Outstanding results are also dependent on maximizing the coordination of care between you and Dr. Westbrook. We are committed to delivering the best possible service in order for you to achieve your orthodontic objectives.

Dr. Westbrook provides orthodontic treatment for adults, adolescents and children. We follow the guidelines established by the American Association of Orthodontists by recommending that an orthodontic screening takes place at age seven for all children. This early evaluation can help to determine the best time to begin any necessary treatment. Many progressive treatments are now available for patients who are aged seven to eleven years that provide significant benefits, especially when jaw irregularities are present. These treatments may also prevent certain conditions from worsening. Treating children with these types of problems during their growth stages allows our practice to achieve results that may not be possible when face and jaw bones have fully developed. This early treatment can simplify or eliminate additional treatment for the child.

Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment

1. A more attractive smile

2. Reduce self-consciousness during critical developmental years

3. Better functionality and comfort from having a proper bite

4. May increase self-confidence and interpersonal effectiveness

5. Increased ability to clean the teeth

6. Improved force distribution and minimize wear patterns on the teeth

7. Guide facial growth for a more attractive profile

8. Better long-term health of teeth and gums

9. Reduce or eliminate the need for future jaw or facial surgery

10. Guide permanent teeth into more favorable positions

11. Reduce the need to extract permanent teeth when treated at younger ages

12. Better lip closure and profile esthetics

13. Improved speech/swallowing

14. Shortened treatment time in comprehensive braces when early treatment is done

15. May eliminate the need to replace missing teeth

16. Aids in optimizing other dental treatment

17. Less strain on the muscles/jaw joints

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