Our Services
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Metal Braces
Metal braces are made of high-quality, stainless steel, and they are what most people think of when you talk about braces. Metal braces are bonded to the front of each tooth and connected by a series of arch wires that gently move your teeth into alignment. Our braces allow you to choose your own custom color combinations at each visit. Today’s metal braces are smaller, more comfortable, and more attractive than older models.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces move teeth just as efficiently as metal braces, except the brackets are clear, so they are less noticeable. However, they can still be paired with colored ties for a more vibrant statement, if desired.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners are made from durable plastic and move teeth without brackets and wires. Instead, patients progress through a series of aligners that gradually move teeth into alignment. They are customized, comfortable, and removable. However, clear aligners have some limitations and may not be a great option for every single person.
Baptist Orthodontics designs and fabricates their own aligners with the help of a company called SureSmile. What makes this process unique is that it allows Dr. Baptist to fully design her aligners start-to-finish using the SureSmile software. We then order the 3D prints, and make the aligners in-office.
Dr. Baptist prefers this process because it gives her full control of tooth movements, allows for faster turn-around times, and provides stronger aligners that move the teeth more predictably.
Retainers
Once your orthodontic treatment is complete, you will be responsible for keeping your teeth straight by wearing a retainer. Retainers prevent your teeth from shifting and should be worn as prescribed by Dr. Baptist for as long as you want your teeth to remain straight. There are different types of retainers that we can/will provide:
Essix retainers: These are clear and can be removed by the patient when eating, brushing, etc. They are great for holding the exact position of the teeth after orthodontic treatment and are desirable for their nearly-invisible esthetics.
Hawley retainers: These are made of a strong acrylic with metal wires that work together to hold the teeth in place. They can be personalized with a wide variety of colors making them fun and unique. They are removable and durable, making them a great option to wear as a long -term retainer.
Permanent Retainer: Also called ”bonded” or “fixed” retainers, these are small pieces of wire that are closely adapted and bonded to the inside of the teeth. They serve as extra stability in difficult cases, but should always be accompanied by one of our removable retainers mentioned above. Despite their name, they will need to be removed or repaired after an extended period of time by a doctor. Bonded retainers make brushing and flossing more difficult, and therefore, Dr. Baptist only uses them in very specific circumstances.
Carriere Motion Appliance
This unique appliance is used BEFORE starting braces or aligner treatment when there is a significant “overbite” present. This technique allows patients to wear rubber bands to correct their “overbite” early, while their enthusiasm and cooperation are at their highest. Dr. Baptist has seen wonderful results using this appliance, and it often speeds up overall treatment times.
Want to see how it works? Click the video to see an explanation!
Early Treatment
The American Association of Orthodontics recommends that children be screened by an orthodontist when they are 7 years old. Early screening allows orthodontists to recognize potential problems and correct them before they become more serious. You do not need to wait for a dentists’ referral to make an appointment with us. Early treatment, also known as “Phase I treatment,” is used to correct dental problems that can cause severe crowding, tooth fracture, root resorption, asymmetrical jaw growth, etc. if left untreated throughout childhood. In other words, it reduces the need for extraction of permanent teeth or surgical intervention in later years. It can also be utilized for young kids who are experiencing low self-esteem from their teeth.
Adolescent Treatment
On average, most children are ready for full upper and lower braces or aligners around the age of 12. Children at this age are growing rapidly, and orthodontists can usually take advantage of these growth spurts to help align the teeth and bite appropriately. Additionally, many teens and pre-teens benefit from braces at this age because of the increased self-esteem that comes with having straight teeth.
Adult Treatment
There is no age limit for orthodontics! More adults are getting orthodontic treatment than ever before, and their increased responsibility generates gorgeous treatment results! In certain cases, we may need to get permission from your general dentist, dental specialist, or medical provider before beginning treatment if there are underlying dental or medical concerns.