Early Interceptive Treatment
It is recommended that a child be evaluated by an orthodontist by age 7. This allows for an assessment of growth and development in order to determine if there are any issues that should be addressed earlier rather than later.
Early orthodontic treatment may be recommended to correct crossbites, tooth positioning causing tooth wear or gum issues, severe crowding and/or jaw discrepancies that affect the bite or profile
In many cases, orthodontic needs can be addressed in a single phase of treatment in the early teenage years. For this reason, children who do not require early treatment are generally seen as a courtesy for an annual check-up. This allows Dr. Curran to monitor your child’s growth and development and make the right decisions regarding treatment timing.
Braces
Braces are a tool that can be used in order to move your teeth into the desired position. Dr. Curran uses a self-ligating bracket which promotes a low friction system that moves your teeth gently and efficiently. Often, extractions can be avoided using this approach, since gentle expansion allows for development of a stunning smile.
Dr. Curran focuses on facial balance and proportions when treatment planning each case on an individual basis. Having an amazing smile is so much more than having straight teeth. How teeth fit into the framework of the face, the microesthetics tailored to each individual, and a stable, functional result are all key aspects during treatment planning to ensure a beautiful end result.
Clear Aligners
Aligners can be an option for patients who have concerns with their appearance during
orthodontic treatment. The latest technology is used in order to fabricate a series of custom acrylic trays for patients to use during the course of their treatment. These trays are worn approximately 22 hours a day, and are removed during eating, drinking, and brushing. Gentle pressure moves the teeth into the desired positions over time.
Dr. Curran would be happy to discuss the pros and cons of traditional braces and clear aligners to obtain your treatment goals.
Re-treatment
The use of orthodontic retainers is recommended for life (or for as long as you want straight teeth!). Unfortunately, nothing in our bodies remains the same as we age, and our teeth are no different. If retainers are not worn, relapse can occur. We are happy to discuss treatment options to improve and refine aspects of your smile resulting from relapse.
Surgical Orthodontics
In general, the position of the teeth is related to the position of the jaw bones in which they are located. Occasionally, the top and bottom jaw grow out of balance with one another and the resulting position of the teeth is compromised. This imbalance can not only affect the bite and function of the teeth, but also result in a change in an individual’s facial appearance.
A surgical option may be offered in combination with orthodontic treatment to restore normal function and facial balance. In some cases, surgical orthodontics can offer improvements in patients affected by obstructive sleep apnea for which other methods of treatment have been ineffective. This is a specific area of interest to Dr. Curran, and the subject of her Masters thesis and lecture at the National level.