Below are frequently asked questions about Orthodontics :

I'm in my 50's. Am I too old for braces?

No. Many adults are choosing tooth-colored ceramic braces which hardly show. A removable appliance may even work with certain patient problems. Orthodontics is usually the most cost effective treatment because treatment means eliminating the cosmetic problem while retaining your natural teeth. Restorative treatment always has a "life expectancy" on any restorations meaning you will have to continually do whatever treatment you choose.

My chin recedes. Is there anything that can make me look normal, besides a chin implant?

Orthodontics is a good place to start, but most times the treatment will have to be coordinated with an orthognathically trained oral surgeon.
Orthognathic surgery (jaw advancement)
Work with a team -- orthodontist and oral surgeon and restorative dentist.

My teeth are loose.

Have a teeth cleaning (prophylaxis), full mouth x-rays and periodontal probing to determine why they are loose. Chances are you will want to have a consultation with a periodontist to help determine the cause and develop a plan to treat the condition.

My denture makes me look old and it doesn't fit well. Is there anything that can be done?

The first step is to arrange for a cosmetic evaluation as your lipline (smileline) can be evaluated and proposed correction can be shown to you using computer imaging. This way you can be certain you will like the look of the new dentures.

I've heard about dental implants, what are they?

They are an excellent means of replacing missing teeth. The titanium implant, osseointegration to the bone, and a full crown goes on top. The result is a natural looking secure means of replacing teeth.

My dentist told me I've lost bone in my jaw. . . can it be re-grown?

Often the lost bone can be restored -- bony ridges can be augmented and even places where there is no bone can be improved considerably. These procedures are called guided bone regeneration or "bone grafts". Ask your dentist if you are a candidate.

How do I know if I am a good candidate for implants?
An evaluation with diagnostic records and a CT-Scan which is a 3-dimensional type x-ray that accurately measures the amount of bone remaining to anchor the implants.

How long do implants last?

Statistics indicate that they may last in excess of 30 years. Once successfully integrated with the surrounding bone, implants have long-term potential as natural teeth, if properly taken care of.

How long have implants been around?

The current cylinder type of titanium has been used in excess of 30 years. Implants were invented in 1957 in Stockholm, Sweden. They were then tested in the 1960's and introduced in Europe and the U.S. in the 1970's and early 1980's. Implants are safe and provide for an excellent option for people with missing teeth.

What is the success rate of implant?

Highly successful. Low infection potential. No rejection by the body. Ninety-five to ninety-eight percent success rate for the lower jaw, and eighty-six to ninety-two percent success rate for the upper jaw. However, implants must be maintained by the patient with proper oral hygiene and frequent dental exams and cleanings.