About Orthodontics

For most people, achieving a healthy, beautiful smile is the reason for receiving orthodontic care. If you're self-conscious about your smile, correcting your concerns with braces will greatly improve the way you look and feel.

When your treatment is complete, you will have the smile you've always dreamed of and the confidence to show it off! We also want you to feel comfortable and confident throughout your entire orthodontic experience, and our practice is dedicated to making sure that you receive the quality care you deserve.

What is Orthodontics?

Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that specializes in the diagnostics, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. Many technical terms and names of the biological structures are formed from the Greek and Latin roots. "Ortho" means straight and "odont" means tooth.

The technical term for orthodontic problems is referred to as "malocclusion", which means "bad bite". The practice of orthodontics requires professional skill in the design, application and control of corrective appliances to bring teeth, lips and jaws into proper alignment and achieve facial balance. Orthodontic treatment achieves not only a correct bite, but also beautiful smiles, improved dental health and increased self-esteem and self-confidence. 

What is an Orthodontist?

An orthodontist is an Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthodopedics specialist who after dental school completes and American Dental Association accredited post-doctoral course of at least two academic years in the area of orthodontics.

Only dentists who have successfully completed an advanced specialty program may call themselves orthodontists. All orthodontists are dentists, but only six percent of dentists are orthodontists.

The American Board of Orthodontics is the only orthodontic specialty board recognized by the American Dental Association, and less than 20 percent of orthodontists are board certified. Dr. Studebaker is a Board Certified Orthodontist.

How Orthodontic Treatment Works 

Orthodontic appliances are made of metal, ceramic, or plastic. They may be removable or they may be brackets bonded to the teeth. By placing a constant, gentle force in a carefully controlled direction, braces slowly move teeth to the proper position.

Gone are the days when a metal band with a bracket was placed around each tooth. You can now choose clear or metal brackets and, in some cases, the color of your appliance. Wires are far less noticeable, and the latest materials are designed to move teeth faster with more comfort. Today, any age is a great age to wear braces!

Duration of Treatment

Treatment time varies and can last between one and three years, depending on several factors including age, treatment method, and how minor or severe your case is. A big factor in a successful treatment is you! The more involved and diligent you are, the more efficient your treatment will be. For children, receiving interceptive or early treatment can also help provide a quicker treatment time.

Before beginning your orthodontic care, your doctor will discuss all of your options and provide an estimate for how long your full treatment may take. Please contact our practice to schedule an appointment and learn more about orthodontics and the treatments we provide.