Trying to find answers to orthodontic questions can leave you buried in information. If you’ve ever wondered what orthodontics is all about, don’t worry, you’re not alone. Orthodontics, in its simplest form, is a dedicated branch of dentistry that focuses on everything regarding your teeth, gums, and jaw. Our team, led by our specialists, Dr. William, Dr. Kraig, Dr. Scott, and Dr. Alisha, ensures that your (or your child’s) teeth grow straight and properly aligned. With offices conveniently located in Chaska, Maple Grove, Orono, and Plymouth, we’re committed to creating radiant smiles in our community. But what does all this mean, and why is it so crucial, you ask? Buckle up as we give you the best orthodontic FAQ you need!
What Is Orthodontics? How Is It Different From Dentistry?
If you’re scratching your head over what orthodontics entails, rest assured you’re not the only one. At its core, orthodontics is a branch of dentistry that concentrates on diagnosing “behind-the-scenes” (or maybe “under-the-gums”) problems with teeth. Although orthodontics may seem complex, it’s essentially about ensuring your (or your child’s) teeth develop the way they ought to.
Why is it necessary for children? Early intervention in orthodontics can help prevent more serious problems later on, such as challenges in biting, chewing, or even speaking. But it goes beyond just physical advantages – it’s also about improving self-confidence. With a set of straight teeth and a radiant smile, your child can build confidence, and we at Kottemann Orthodontics are committed to making that a reality.
What Qualifies A Person To Become An Orthodontist?
You might be wondering, “Who exactly is an orthodontist?” Well, let’s break that down. Think of an orthodontist as a dental super-specialist. They’re a dentist who decided to take their expertise a step further. After completing their regular dental training, they ventured into an additional two to three years of specialized education focusing solely on orthodontics.
That’s right! They spent that extra time learning the ins and outs of diagnosing, preventing, and correcting teeth and jaws. This means they have the know-how to ensure your or your child’s teeth are straight and functioning correctly for a healthy, happy smile. In short, orthodontists like our doctors are the superheroes of dental alignment, working tirelessly to save the day, one smile at a time!
What Different Kinds Of Treatments Do You Have?
Our treatments include traditional metal braces, which have undergone significant upgrades to become more comfortable and sleeker than ever before. These sturdy classics are perfect for addressing many different kinds of tooth problems. For patients seeking a “secret” approach (Ssh! We won’t tell if you won’t!), we proudly offer Invisalign – a series of clear, custom-made aligners that are nearly invisible and can be removed for eating and brushing, and those all-important selfies.
But that’s not all. We also provide modern options like clear braces, sometimes referred to as “ceramic” braces. Made from clear or tooth-colored ceramic, these braces seamlessly blend with your child’s teeth, delivering brilliant results while being less noticeable.
In addition to these excellent choices, we’re thrilled to offer you accelerated orthodontics. With state-of-the-art technologies like the AcceleDent System, we can reduce your treatment time by 38 to 50 percent. This pain-free, hands-free appliance gently vibrates your teeth and surrounding bone, allowing for faster tooth movement.
Furthermore, our Propel treatment is groundbreaking in its approach, temporarily decreasing the mineral content of the bone to facilitate quicker movement of existing braces. OrthoPulse, another exceptional option, uses low-intensity pulses of light energy to stimulate the bone surrounding your teeth, accelerating tooth movement by up to 50 percent.
How Old Should My Kids Be When They Start?
Determining the right time for your child’s first orthodontist visit can seem tricky. However, the American Association of Orthodontists (along with our doctors) recommends a check-up by age 7. Even though your child’s teeth might appear straight, there could be underlying issues with jaw growth and emerging teeth. So, it’s better to be safe than sorry!
Aside from age, watch for signs that your child may need an orthodontic check-up. These could include difficulty chewing or biting, thumb sucking beyond age 5, crowded or misplaced teeth, or jaws that pop or shift. At Kottemann Orthodontics, we help guide your child’s teeth to a future of dazzling smiles.
How Long Does Treatment Take To Complete?
Regarding orthodontic treatment duration, we understand you’re eager to achieve that beautiful smile as soon as possible. At Kottemann Orthodontics, we’re all about making your journey efficient and effective without compromising on the warm and friendly atmosphere we’re known for.
Now, how long does orthodontic treatment take? Well, it varies from person to person based on factors like the complexity of your case and the specific treatment option you choose. Rest assured, during your initial consultation with our fantastic team, led by Dr. William, Dr. Kraig, Dr. Scott, and Dr. Alisha; we’ll provide a personalized treatment plan and clearly show how long your orthodontic journey might take.
So, while we can only give an exact timeframe by evaluating your unique situation, trust that we’ll do everything we can to make your orthodontic treatment efficient, enjoyable, and, most importantly, worth the wait. Get ready to show off that gorgeous smile sooner than you think!
Get The Best Treatment At Kottemann Orthodontics
Navigating the world of orthodontics doesn’t have to be intimidating or overwhelming, not when you’re in the capable hands of Kottemann Orthodontics! Our dedicated team of dental superheroes, Dr. William, Dr. Kraig, Dr. Scott, and Dr. Alisha, are here to guide your journey toward a healthier, happier smile. Whether you’re in Chaska, Maple Grove, Orono, or Plymouth, we’re committed to making orthodontic care accessible, comfortable, and fun for you and your family. So why wait? Take the first step to that dazzling smile you’ve always dreamed of. Click here today to schedule a free consultation!