Early Treatment
Though an orthodontist can enhance a smile at any age, there is an optimal time period to begin orthodontic treatment. Beginning treatment at this time ensures the greatest result and the least amount of time and expense. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that the initial orthodontic evaluation should occur at the first sign of orthodontic problems or no later than age seven. At this early age, orthodontic treatment may not be necessary, but vigilant examination can anticipate the most advantageous time to begin treatment.
By the age of seven, the first adult molars erupt, establishing the back bite. During this time, an orthodontist can evaluate front-to-back and side-to-side tooth relationships. For example, the presence of erupting incisors can indicate possible overbite, open bite, crowding or gummy smiles. Timely screening increases the chances for an incredible smile.
Early evaluation provides both timely detection of problems and greater opportunity for more effective treatment. Prudent intervention guides growth and development, preventing serious problems later. When orthodontic intervention is not necessary, an orthodontist can carefully monitor growth and development and begin treatment when it is ideal.
Some of the most direct results of interceptive treatment are:
- Improved Oral Health: Straight teeth are easier to clean, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
- Boosted Confidence: A straight smile helps children feel more confident and comfortable in social situations.
- Better Speech and Functionality: Correcting alignment issues can improve speech clarity and make chewing easier.
- Long-Term Savings: Early treatment prevents more serious dental problems, potentially saving on future dental costs.
Dental Pain Eraser
At TG Orthodontics, we are committed to making your orthodontic journey as comfortable as possible. That’s why we offer the Dental Pain Eraser, an innovative device designed to provide quick and effective relief from oral pain. Whether you’re dealing with discomfort from braces, aligners, or general tooth sensitivity, the Dental Pain Eraser is a simple and safe solution for managing pain, without the need for medication.
The Dental Pain Eraser is a handheld, pen-like device that uses neuromodulation technology to instantly relieve oral pain. It emits a mild electrical pulse that calms the nerves in the affected area, blocking pain signals to the brain. This process is quick, effective, and safe, offering pain relief within seconds of use. The Dental Pain Eraser can be applied directly to sore teeth, gums, or any area in the mouth experiencing discomfort, providing targeted relief whenever you need it.
Benefits of the Dental Pain Eraser include:
- Immediate Relief: Provides rapid pain relief in seconds, without the need for medications or numbing agents.
- Drug-Free Solution: Safe for patients of all ages, including children, as it uses no chemicals or drugs.
- Portable and Easy to Use: Its compact, pen-like design makes it easy to carry and use at home, school, or on the go.
- Effective for Multiple Uses: Great for relieving pain from braces, aligners, mouth sores, and general tooth sensitivity.
The Dental Pain Eraser works by using Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) technology. When applied to the affected area, the device emits a low-frequency electrical pulse that calms the nerves and stops pain signals from reaching the brain. This non-invasive process takes just a few seconds, offering instant relief from a variety of dental pains.
At TG Orthodontics, we prioritize your comfort and care. The Dental Pain Eraser is a great tool for anyone looking for a quick, easy, and effective way to manage dental pain. It’s non-invasive, drug-free, and simple to use, making it a convenient option for patients of all ages.
If you’re looking for a fast and effective way to manage orthodontic discomfort, ask us about the Dental Pain Eraser at your next visit. Our team at TG Orthodontics is here to help you enjoy a more comfortable and pain-free orthodontic experience.
Zoom Whitening
Our teeth naturally discolor as time goes on. Our daily food and drink intake will also stain our teeth. Whether from food, smoking, coffee, a beautiful smile could be achieved. At TG Orthodontics, we believe a beautiful smile is an essential part of your confidence. That’s why we offer Zoom Teeth Whitening — a quick, effective, and professional way to achieve a brighter smile. Zoom is one of the most popular teeth whitening systems available today, known for its ability to deliver fast, noticeable results in just one visit.
What is zoom whitening?
Zoom Teeth Whitening is an in-office procedure that uses a special light-activated whitening gel to break down stains and discoloration on your teeth. The process is simple and safe, typically taking less than an hour to complete. With Zoom, you can achieve teeth that are up to eight shades whiter in a single session. With Zoom, you can expect:
- Fast Results: Zoom can whiten your teeth significantly in just one appointment, making it an excellent option for busy individuals or those preparing for a special occasion.
- Customized Treatment: The whitening gel is tailored to your specific needs, ensuring optimal results with minimal sensitivity.
- Long-Lasting Effect: With proper care and regular dental hygiene, your Zoom whitening results can last for months.
- Safe and Effective: Performed under the supervision of our experienced orthodontic team, Zoom Whitening is a safe procedure that yields impressive results.
What to expect with zoom
When you come to TG Orthodontics for Zoom Teeth Whitening, our friendly team will make sure you’re comfortable from start to finish. First, we’ll prepare your mouth by covering your gums and lips, leaving only your teeth exposed. Then, we’ll apply the Zoom whitening gel to your teeth. A special LED light is used to activate the gel, which helps to lift deep stains and discoloration. The entire process is completed in three 15-minute sessions, all during your single appointment.
After your whitening session, our team will provide you with simple aftercare instructions to maintain your bright new smile. We recommend avoiding foods and drinks that can stain your teeth, such as coffee, red wine, and tobacco products, for at least 48 hours following treatment. You’ll also receive custom whitening trays for at-home touch-ups to extend the longevity of your results.
Zoom Teeth Whitening is an excellent option for most patients looking to enhance their smile. However, it may not be suitable for everyone, such as those with extensive dental restorations or specific types of tooth sensitivity. Our team at TG Orthodontics will evaluate your oral health and help you determine if Zoom Whitening is the best choice for achieving the smile you desire.
Surgical Orthodontics
At TG Orthodontics, we understand that achieving a beautiful, healthy smile often requires more than just braces or aligners. For some patients, surgical orthodontics is a necessary step to correct complex jaw irregularities and ensure optimal function and aesthetics. Our team is here to provide expert care and guidance throughout your journey to a confident smile.
Surgical orthodontics can be life-changing for patients with significant jaw misalignments or other facial irregularities. Here are some of the benefits:
- Improved Functionality: Corrects issues related to chewing, speaking, and breathing by aligning the jaws properly.
- Enhanced Aesthetics: Improves facial symmetry and balance, which can have a positive impact on your appearance and self-confidence.
- Better Oral Health: Reduces the risk of dental problems, such as tooth wear, gum disease, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, by creating a more balanced bite.
- Long-Term Stability: Provides a permanent solution to severe orthodontic problems, reducing the likelihood of relapse.
Surgical orthodontics is generally recommended for patients over the age of 18, when the jaw has fully developed. It is ideal for those with significant jaw misalignments, such as:
- Severe overbites or underbites
- Crossbites or open bites
- Facial asymmetry or imbalance
- Difficulty chewing, speaking, or breathing
- Jaw pain or TMJ disorders
During your initial consultation, our team will assess your unique needs and help determine if surgical orthodontics is the right path for you.
how does it work?
The journey to a healthier, more functional smile through surgical orthodontics involves several key steps:
- Comprehensive Consultation and Diagnosis: Our team at TG Orthodontics will begin with a thorough evaluation, including digital imaging and 3D modeling, to assess your jaw alignment and determine if surgical orthodontics is the right solution for you.
- Pre-Surgical Orthodontics: Before surgery, you will wear braces or clear aligners to begin aligning the teeth. This phase usually lasts 12-18 months and prepares your teeth for their new positions after surgery.
- Surgical Procedure: The surgery itself is performed by an experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeon in a hospital setting. The procedure involves repositioning the jaws to improve alignment and balance. The surgery is usually completed within a few hours, and patients typically stay in the hospital for a few days.
- Post-Surgical Care and Recovery: After surgery, you will continue wearing braces or aligners to fine-tune your bite and ensure your teeth are properly aligned. This phase lasts several months, depending on your individual needs.
- Follow-Up and Maintenance: Regular follow-up visits with our team will help monitor your progress and ensure the best possible outcome.
At TG Orthodontics, we are committed to providing our patients with comprehensive care tailored to their individual needs. Our team works closely with top oral surgeons to coordinate every step of your treatment, ensuring a seamless experience and the best possible outcome. We use state-of-the-art orthodontic technology and a patient-centered approach to deliver exceptional results.
Growth Modifying Appliances
Growth modification is necessary when the patient has unbalanced growth between the upper and lower jaws. This type of treatment can only be done for patients who are still growing. Below are some of the growth modification appliances frequently used in our office:
Palatal Expanders
Palatal expanders are orthodontic devices used to widen the upper jaw, creating more space for teeth to align properly and improving overall bite function. At TG Orthodontics, we offer several types of palatal expanders tailored to each patient’s needs:
- Haas Expander (Fixed): The Haas expander is a fixed device attached to the upper molars with bands and a central acrylic plate. It gradually widens the palate by turning a small screw in the center, creating space for crowded teeth and correcting crossbites. The Haas expander is effective and reliable, particularly for younger patients with developing jaws.
- Invisalign Palatal Expander (IPE — Removable): The IPE is a removable palatal expander created by Invisalign. Designed for patients who prefer a less noticeable option, it gently expands the upper jaw over time using customized aligners. This expander offers flexibility, as it can be taken out for eating, brushing, and special occasions, while still delivering the desired results.
- Face Mask (Reverse-Pull Headgear): For children ages seven to ten with an underbite, a face mask can be used in combination with a palatal expander. This device helps guide the upper jaw forward while correcting the lower jaw position. Worn mainly at night, the face mask effectively addresses skeletal discrepancies in young children, promoting proper jaw alignment and function.
MARA Appliance (Braces)
The MARA (Mandibular Anterior Repositioning Appliance) is a fixed orthodontic appliance used alongside braces to correct overbites by encouraging the lower jaw to move forward into a proper position. The MARA appliance consists of metal components attached to the upper and lower molars, which guide the jaw’s growth and development over time. Ideal for growing patients, typically between the ages of 11-15, the MARA appliance helps achieve a balanced bite and enhances facial profile. It is a reliable and effective solution for those needing comprehensive orthodontic treatment with braces.
Mandibular Advancement (MA) with Invisalign
Mandibular Advancement (MA) with Invisalign is a modern approach to correcting overbites using clear aligners. The MA feature is specifically designed for teens and combines the benefits of Invisalign with advancements that guide the lower jaw forward while straightening the teeth. The aligners are fitted with precision wings that gradually shift the jaw into the correct position, improving the bite and facial profile. MA with Invisalign is a comfortable and discreet alternative to traditional appliances, offering an effective solution for growing patients who prefer a less noticeable treatment option.