BEAUTIFUL SMILES ARE A TEAM EFFORT

Your family dentist and your orthodontist work together on your behalf. When you choose an orthodontist who displays this emblem, you are being treated by a professional who has completed advanced education required by the American Dental Association to permit announcement as 'specialist in orthodontics". Creating healthy miles at any age is what we do.

MORE THAN BEAUTIFUL SMILES

Although the importance of a nice smile should never be underestimated, the orthodontic specialist has another equally significant treatment goal-to improve the health of your teeth and gums. Did you know that crooked teeth and bad bites can seriously affect general oral health and sometimes jaw joints (TMJ problems)? Crowded teeth are hard to clean and maintain and in time may contribute to tooth decay, gum disease and eventual tooth loss. Bad bites also can result in abnormal wear of tooth surfaces, difficulty in chewing and damage to supporting bone and gum tissue jaw joint (TMJ) pain and associated headaches sometimes can be attributed to crooked teeth and incorrect bites.

When left untreated, many orthodontic problems become worse. Treatment by a specialist to correct the original problem is often less costly than the additional dental care required to treat more serious problems that can develop in later years.

NEVER TOO OLD TO BE YOUR BEST - Adult Orthodontics

Orthodontic treatment is always a change for the better, regardless of your age. The biological process involved in tooth movement is the same in both adults and children. The health of your teeth, gums and supporting bone is the most important factor in determining the prospects for improving your smile and dental health.

Because an adult's facial bones are no longer growing, certain corrections cannot be accomplished with braces alone. But don't let that discourage you. Very dramatic facial changes are now being achieved with a combined approach of surgery and orthodontics. Should you require this type of treatment, your orthodontist will explain the procedures.

BRACES AND YOUR LIFESTYLE

You probably want to know if braces will interfere with your lifestyle. Absolutely not! You can do anything with braces--sing, play a musical instrument, dine out, kiss, and even have your picture taken.

There are, however, a few inconveniences, but you'll adjust quickly. Certain treats such as caramels and peanut brittle will be off limits. Also, your mouth and teeth may be a little tender after adjustments. And, of course, it will be especially important that you visit your family dentist for regular checkups. The good news is that the new You probably want to know if braces will interfere with your lifestyle. Absolutely not! You can do anything with braces; sing, play a musical instrument, dine out, kiss, and even have your picture taken.

There are, however, a few inconveniences, but you'll adjust quickly. Certain treats such as caramels and peanut brittle will be off limits. Also, your mouth and teeth may be a little tender after adjustments. And, of course, it will be especially important that you visit your family dentist for regular checkups.

DISCOVER HOW GREAT YOUR SMILE COULD BE

A consultation with an orthodontic specialist is the best way to determine if you can benefit from treatment. After an initial examination, your orthodontist usually will be able to tell you what the treatment will involve and the approximate cost. if you decide to proceed, complete diagnostic records of your mouth will be taken. These include molds of your teeth, special X-rays and photographs.

After carefully analyzing the extent of your problem, Dr. Wedell will recommend the best course of treatment for improving your smile.

AN IMPORTANT CHOICE

The decision for an adult to have his or her teeth straightened is a major one. Once you decide to have treatment, choosing who will provide it is very important because your teeth-and possibly your face-will be changed permanently.

Orthodontic specialists limit their practice to orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics unless they also have qualified in another American Dental Association (ADA) recognized specialty. By completing an advanced education program following dental school, they have learned the special skills required to manage tooth movement and guide facial development.

Specialists use the most advanced techniques available today, and because of their extensive knowledge, they can select cost-effective methods and materials for correcting individual problems.

A LIFELONG INVESTMENT IN YOURSELF

When you consider the cost of orthodontic treatment, also consider the lifelong benefits of a healthy, beautiful smile. Many former patients have said that it is the best investment they ever made-an investment in themselves.

The actual cost of treatment will, of course, depend on the severity of your problem. Your orthodontist will be glad to discuss fees with you before treatment begins. Convenient financing with an initial down payment and monthly installments usually can be arranged. Many employer-provided benefit plans now include orthodontics.

FINDING A SPECIALIST

All active members of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) are orthodontic specialists. Each has met the exacting standards of education and experience required by the AA0 for membership. These educational requirements conform to those established by the American Dental Association.* it is to your advantage to seek your orthodontic treatment from an AAO member.

Upon request, the AA0 will furnish you with a fist of members in your area. Your family dentist also can refer you to an AAO member. Remember, AA0 members are the specialists who want you to have a lifetime of beautiful, healthy smiles.

*Advanced education programs in orthodontics must include two or more academic years of full-time formal training in a program sponsored by an institution properly chartered and licensed to operate and offer instruction leading to degrees, diplomas or certificates with recognized educational validity. (From: Commission on Dental Accreditation, American Dental Association, July 1992.)