QUESTIONS WE'RE MOST OFTEN ASKED ABOUT ORTHODONTIC CARE Invisalign at Suwanee Dental Care
What do orthodontic problems look like? The following are some indications that an orthodontic problem may exist: Unusual facial profile Thumb or finger sucking Overlapping and crowded teeth Missing teeth Underbite Spaced teeth Protrusion of the upper front teeth Mouth breathing or difficulty closing the lips together Difficulty chewing or discomfort in the jaw joints
When should my child be seen for orthodontic care?
Each person is a little different. However, it is recommended by the International Association for Orthodontics that about age 7 is an appropriate time for a child's first evaluation by an orthodontically trained dentist. If you suspect an orthodontic problem before age 7, we should be contacted for an earlier evaluation. Dr. Williams has treated orthodontic cases for 20 years and has had patients in some form of orthodontic therapy ranging from ages 3 to 83.
Isn't seven years of age too early?
For some patients, early diagnosis and treatment for orthodontic problems can help guide tooth eruption and facial growth, preventing more serious problems. Also, by managing early problems, later orthodontic treatment may be reduced, made easier and in some cases more economical (see the web page on two-phase orthodontic therapy). Other patients who need orthodontic treatment may first require a period of observation until an appropriate level of development has been attained.
What are benefits of straight teeth?
Properly positioned teeth are much easier to care for and clean. Correction of the bite not only helps with improved chewing and speech, but also plays an important role in reducing future wear of the teeth and stress on the supporting bone and jaw joints. Orthodontic care may also improve a person's self esteem.
How does orthodontic care improve self image?
Scientific research has repeatedly shown the mouth and face to be focal points of communication and social interaction. Appearance has been related to interpersonal popularity, social behaviors, self-expectation, personality style, and self image. There can be little doubt that an attractive facial appearance and smile can improve the quality of life and success at school, at work and socially. All factors of facial and dental esthetics are considered by the orthodontically trained dentist in planning individual treatment strategies.
Adults seem to be wearing braces more; is this a growing trend?
About 25% of our orthodontic patients are adults seeking orthodontic care because of increased awareness of the benefits and newer appliance designs that are more attractive and comfortable. Age is not a factor in orthodontic care. With the new Invisalign orthodontic technology, adults can now have straight teeth even without "braces!"
Why do adults choose to wear braces?
Many of our adult patients are being treated for problems that were not corrected when they were children. These individuals realize that improving the health of their mouth and the attractiveness of their smile and facial appearance often results in changes for the better in their personal, social and professional lives. Often, Dr. Williams needs to move a tooth into proper position to better make a bridge, improve periodontal conditions, prevent a nerve of a tooth from having to have a root canal or to better stabilize a partial denture. Not all orthodontics is done for cosmetic reasons.
Are invisible braces available for my orthodontic treatment?
Orthodontic technology has advanced greatly, enabling the use of transparent orthodontic appliances. Depending on one's individual orthodontic diagnosis, these braces may be available as an alternative. Ceramic brackets are a bit more costly and a bit more difficult for us to work with, but the benefit to your appearance is worth the additional work in most cases. On the other hand, Invisalign orthodontic aligners are far easier to use and wear for the patient and are used for more adult cases with mild to moderate needs. They are just a bit more expensive than regular orthodontic appliances, mainly due to their steep laboratory costs to the practice.
What orthodontic training has Dr. Williams completed?
Dr. Williams earned a B.S. degree in Chemistry from Auburn University. After graduating in the top ten of his class from the Medical College of Georgia School of Dentistry he practiced general family dentistry for five years before beginning continuing education training in orthodontics and TMJ therapy. Dr. Williams has completed the five year post graduate continuing education program of the United States Dental Institute. Dr. Williams was Senior TMJ Instructor for the United States Dental Institute from 1983 to 1987. He has also completed the Inline, Damon, and Invisalign Orthodontic programs in 2001.
A native of Atlanta, Dr. Williams is a member of numerous professional organizations and is active in community and civic associations. He has been chosen by his colleagues to serve as President of the Georgia Academy of General Dentistry. Helping literally thousands of patients in the Southeastern United States obtain the smile they desire has afforded Dr. Williams the experience you deserve from one of Atlanta's most highly trained dentists.
What will happen at the first visit?
At the first visit, Dr. Williams will meet with you and listen to the concerns that have brought you to our office. He will review your or your child's medical and dental history and perform a thorough and complete orthodontic examination. The goal of this appointment is to understand your problem and determine what type of orthodontic care may be indicated. Diagnostic tests may then be recommended for more in-depth treatment planning.
What type of diagnostic tests might be needed?
Orthodontic records usually include x-rays, photographs or computer images of the teeth and face, and models of the teeth evaluated on a precision bite simulating instrument. These diagnostic studies are prepared using the latest in orthodontic diagnostic technology and provide the basis for Dr. Williams' analysis of your individual condition, and recommendations of specific treatment alternatives. Together, we will decide a course of treatment for your individual needs.
If there is a history of pain or dysfunction of the jaw, should it be mentioned to the doctor?
In addition to Dr. Williams' expertise in orthodontics , he is also an expert in jaw problems. If there is a history of jaw pain or dysfunction, Dr. Williams will pay particular attention to this area during the first visit and will request the most appropriate type of diagnostic studies for your benefit.
Is orthodontic care expensive?
Orthodontic care often eliminates the need for other dental and medical treatment, thus reducing future health care costs. Actually, your investment in orthodontic therapy at this time may be quite modest considering the lifetime benefits of optimal facial appearance, an attractive and healthy smile, and optimal health and function of the jaw
Do I have to pay for orthodontic care all at once?
As a service to our patients, we provide a number of payment options. We have worked hard to eliminate any potential budget barriers to receiving the treatment you deserve. We want to make sure you'll find the orthodontic care we provide is comfortably affordable.
Do you accept my orthodontic insurance?
Yes, we are happy to accept assignment from your insurance plan and are eager to help you receive the maximum benefit from your plan. Please remember that most plans pay only a portion of your fee. You are, of course, responsible for any amount not covered by your plan.
Should I continue to see the hygienist while wearing braces?
Definitely! It is very important to continue your regular dental checkups to prevent or detect dental decay, and to monitor the health of the supporting structures. Periodic professional dental cleaning by your dental hygienist will prevent dental disease and maintain overall dental health. We recommend a special mechanical toothbrush called the Rotadent to aid in cleaning around braces for all our orthodontic patients. For those patients who need it, we recommend hygiene visits every 3 months also. Clean teeth will prevent the scaring of tooth enamel while wearing braces.
How long does orthodontic treatment take?
Each patient requires a unique treatment plan. In general however, with the new high-tech appliances available, full treatment can often be completed in 9 to 18 months. The usual time of treatment is 24 months and a long treatment may be up to 36 months. Of course highly complex cases, or those that are best treated in two phases, may take longer.
Are the teeth sore during treatment?
New developments have made modern orthodontic treatment quite comfortable. Dr. Williams has also received specialized training with the new Damon SL appliance system and the Invisalign Orthodontic System that allow greater comfort with lighter forces, less frequent appointments and shorter treatment times than traditional braces. We are proud to be the first office in Suwanee to provide these revolutionary braces with smooth, easy-to-clean surfaces that feel comfortable against your lips and cheeks.
When will my appointments be scheduled?
We share your concerns about missing school or work and schedule appointments so that each patient receives a fair proportion of convenient appointments. Visits during treatment will typically be scheduled at 6 to 10 week intervals and work or school-accepted excuses will be provided.
What if I have a problem with my braces after hours or on the weekend?
Orthodontic emergencies are rare, but if you have a problem we respond quickly. Our voice mail and email will allow you to connect with us outside normal office hours. We're available when you need us.
What else is unique about Suwanee Dental Care?
Our Caring Staff: Always cheerful and friendly, our staff has one goal in mind - to make your orthodontic experience successful, fun and rewarding. Computerized Analysis: Jaw tracking and muscular testing for imbalance can detect the ideal jaw position. We have sonography for detecting joint pathology. Corrected Tomograms. Once available only in hospitals, these high-tech x-ray machines permit precise imaging of a structure deep within the body for clear viewing. Orthodontic Lab: Having an orthodontic lab that we work closely with allows direct supervision and quality control, as well as speedy delivery, of orthodontic appliances needed in your treatment. Continuing Education: Never content with yesterday's knowledge, Dr. Williams and our professional staff regularly attend continuing education courses and seminars. We stay on the cutting edge of treatment and technology. We feel that patients of a professional practice deserve nothing less. Leading edge of technology and knowledge: If its new and worth having, we usually have it. From air abrasion "no drill" dentistry, to BriteSmile tooth whitening, to Invisalign orthodontic aligners, we stay on the leading edge for you.
What can we expect from your practice?
You can expect a unique combination of art, science and experience. One of our continuous objectives is to treat you so well that you feel comfortable in recommending us to your friends and family.
How can I learn more about Suwanee Dental Care and Dr. Williams?
Browse the rest of the web site for starters. Call us at 770-614-7300 for an examination.