Teen Treatment
Braces
Why should I have braces?
Patients wearing Damon Clear braces
Consider this - in a recent survey of more than 1,000 Americans, 72% of the respondents agreed that people of all ages with healthy straight teeth are typically treated better in social situations than those with noticeably crooked teeth. Conversely, nearly half said that crooked teeth leave a negative first impression. With the technologies available today, it's easier than ever to improve your smile and experience the difference:
- Confidence to excel in school, work and personal life
- Clearer speech for interviews, public speaking, etc.
Compared to some of the other 'extreme' cosmetic procedures available today, improving your smile is one of the most valuable investments you can make to improve your overall appearance for a lifetime.
A straight smile is a healthy smile
Patient treated with Damon braces.
A nice smile is not only beautiful, it also promotes good health:
- Straight and evenly spaced teeth are easier to keep clean, providing better oral health. Properly aligned teeth chew more efficiently, which can aid in digestion. Ideally aligned teeth create a more perfect bite, which can reduce stress, headaches, and strain on your supporting bone and soft tissue.
- According to the American Association of Orthodontists, crooked and crowded teeth are hard to clean and maintain. This may contribute to conditions that cause not only tooth decay, but eventual gum disease and tooth loss.
When left untreated, many orthodontic problems become worse, contributing to abnormal wear of tooth surfaces, inefficient chewing function, excessive stress on gum tissue and the bone that supports the teeth, or misalignment of the jaw joints, which can result in chronic headaches or pain in the face or neck. Treatment by an orthodontic specialist to correct the original problem is often less costly than the additional dental care required to treat more serious problems that can develop in later years.
Are all braces the same?
With the revolutionary new Damon System, we don't just align the teeth; we create beautiful smiles. A number of factors are taken into account when first diagnosing your smile. Each individual's face, profile and other factors are considered in anticipating what they will look like in their 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond. The revolutionary Damon System is designed to deliver beautiful faces and smiles for a lifetime.
The Damon difference
The Damon System is not just a new product; it's a whole new way of treating patients. Use of conventional braces often requires removal of healthy teeth and/or the use of palatal expanders to make space. These approaches are often uncomfortable, take longer, and/or can leave a narrower arch and a flat profile. Damon smiles are full, natural 10-tooth smiles achieved with light, biologically-sensible forces, and are specifically designed to improve the overall facial result of each patient.
Are there less noticeable braces?
Patient on right wearing Damon Clear braces.
Braces aren't big and bulky anymore! They are much smaller than they were just a few years ago, and new materials are now used that make them very discreet. Brackets can be metal or clear, depending on the patient’s preference. Another option may be the use of Invisalign, a series of virtually invisible plastic tray aligners, instead of traditional braces.
Do teeth with braces need special care?
Yes. Patients with braces must be careful to avoid hard, sticky, chewy and crunchy foods. They must not chew on pens, pencils or fingernails because chewing on hard things can damage the braces. Damaged braces will almost always cause treatment to take longer, and will require extra trips to the office.
Patient treated with Damon braces
Keeping your teeth and braces clean requires more precision and time, and must be done every day if your teeth and gums are to be healthy during and after orthodontic treatment. Patients who do not keep their teeth clean may require more frequent visits to the dentist for a professional cleaning. Our staff teaches our patients how to care for their teeth, gums and braces during treatment. We tell patients (and/or their parents) how often to brush and floss, and, if necessary, suggest cleaning aids that might help them maintain optimal dental health.
A good reason to keep teeth, gums and braces clean during orthodontic treatment is that clean, healthy teeth move more quickly! This will help keep treatment time as short as possible.
Patients who are active in contact sports should wear a mouth guard. Talk to us about the kind of mouth guard to use while braces are on.
What is patient cooperation and how important is it during orthodontic treatment?
Good “patient cooperation” means that the patient is an active partner in orthodontic treatment; successful orthodontic treatment is a "two-way street" that requires a consistent, cooperative effort by both the orthodontist and patient. To successfully complete treatment, patients must carefully clean their teeth, wear rubber bands as instructed, avoid foods that might damage their braces and keep appointments as scheduled. Damaged appliances can lengthen the treatment time and may adversely affect the outcome of treatment. Patients who do their part consistently finish treatment on-time with exceptional results.
To keep teeth and gums healthy, regular visits to your family dentist are a must during orthodontic treatment.
How long does treatment take?
Patient treated with Damon braces
- 6 months shorter treatment time
- Significantly fewer office visits
Although every case is different, on average, patients treated with the Damon System (under our supervision) wear braces 16-18 months. Treatment times vary with factors that include the severity of the problem, patient growth, gum and bone response to tooth moving forces and how well the patient follows instructions. Patients who brush and floss thoroughly and regularly, avoid hard, crunchy and sticky foods, wear their rubber bands as instructed and keep their appointments usually finish treatment on time.
How do braces feel?
With a new approach to orthodontics called the Damon System, the days of having braces tightened are over. This revolutionary new approach ensures greater comfort throughout treatment. That's because Damon System braces use very light "shape memory" titanium wires to gently guide your teeth to their correct positions. So not only is your treatment shorter, it is also far more comfortable. Our patients experience very little discomfort with the Damon System.
Will I need teeth pulled?
With the Damon System, we can now treat most cases without extraction. With conventional braces, orthodontists are often forced to pull teeth in order to create space for crowded teeth. No one likes to have teeth removed, and a smile with a full display of teeth often produces a broader, natural smile and a nicer profile.
In the few cases which still require extraction, space is made to improve facial balance and symmetry to provide a natural smile and profile that will last as you age.
Will I need headgear or expanders?
Patient treated with Damon braces
In the past, creating space and developing arches required bulky headgear and palatal expanders. With the Damon System, light, biologically-sensible forces are used to develop full natural smiles, in most cases without the need for headgear or palatal expanders. It's far easier and more comfortable to get the beautiful smile you've always dreamed of.
Why are retainers needed after orthodontic treatment?
After braces are removed, the teeth can shift out of position if they are not stabilized. Retainers are designed to hold teeth in their corrected positions until the bones and gums adapt to the treatment changes. Wearing retainers exactly as instructed is the best insurance that the treatment improvements will last.
Will tooth alignment change later?
Studies have shown that as people age, their teeth may shift. This variable pattern of gradual shifting, called maturational change, probably slows down after the early 20s, but still continues to a degree throughout lifet for most people. Even children whose teeth developed into ideal alignment and bite without treatment may develop orthodontic problems as adults. The most common maturational change is crowding of the lower incisors (lower front teeth). Wearing retainers as instructed after orthodontic treatment will stabilize the correction and can prevent this change.
What about the wisdom teeth (third molars) - should they be removed?
Research suggests that wisdom teeth do not necessarily cause teeth to shift. In most cases, removal of wisdom teeth is done for general dental health reasons rather than for orthodontic health. We can provide guidance regarding removal of wisdom teeth.
What happens to teeth and gums if they are not kept clean during orthodontic treatment?
Patient treated with Damon braces
When oral hygiene has been poor, teeth can develop white spots, called “decalcification.” If plaque is not regularly removed, the patient can also develop gum disease. This is why our staff and your dentist and dental hygienist stress dental hygiene—for the good of your dental health.
How much will treatment cost?
We know that cost is a big question for anyone considering braces. The truth is, the cost for your specific treatment depends a lot on the kind of treatment you need and how long it will take. The cost of Damon System Braces is usually similar to the cost of traditional braces.
Does insurance cover Damon System treatment?
If you have orthodontic coverage, Damon System Braces are covered to the same extent as conventional braces.
What payment options are available?
We will help you find options to make your treatment affordable. Our office offers flexible and affordable monthly payment plans, many with no down payment and no interest. We also offer third-party patient financing programs specifically designed for healthcare expenses, with no down payment and monthly payments as low as $ 60. It is our aim to make it easier for you to get the treatment or procedures you want and need.
What can I do to get my braces off sooner?
Follow our instructions carefully, keeping your teeth and gums clean and wear your appliances as instructed, and your cooperation may help speed up your treatment.
My child wants to get his/her tongue pierced. Will this interfere with orthodontic treatment?
Tongue-piercing jewelry may contribute to breakage of appliances and to tooth and gum damage from contact with the stud.
What makes Dr. Smith such an exceptional orthodontist?
Teeth and sometimes entire facial structures are permanently changed by orthodontic treatment. It is very important that the treatment be appropriate and properly completed by a well-trained specialist.
When you and your family see Dr. Alan Smith, you’ll get the most advanced, most caring orthodontic treatment possible. He has helped Rhode Island and southern New England residents achieve their goals of better oral health, improved facial appearance and higher self-esteem since 1990.
It takes special training to be an orthodontist. Dr. Smith attended the University of Rhode Island, College of Pharmacy, graduating with a BS in 1982. He then enrolled at the Georgetown University School of Dentistry, where he attended one of the premier dental schools in the United States and received a DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery). After graduating near the top of his class from Georgetown in 1986, Dr. Smith completed a one-year general practice residency in dentistry in 1987 at an affiliated hospital of the Yale University School of Medicine. Dr. Smith completed his training in orthodontics in 1989 at the Temple University School of Dentistry in Philadelphia, earning a MSD (Master of Science in Dentistry) and a certificate as a specialist in orthodontics. Here, Dr. Smith trained under many well known leaders of the orthodontic profession, and became exceptionally proficient with the latest technological advances in orthodontics and dentistry.
Dr. Smith’s outstanding credentials combined with his love for children, his genuine concern for the well-being of his patients, and his fascination with the science of orthodontics make him an exceptional orthodontist.
Also, it is notable that The Consumer’s Research Council of America, an independent Washington, D.C.- based research organization, selected Dr. Smith as one of the BEST oral health care specialists (orthodontists) in the United States.
Schedule Your Complimentary Examination Now.
Serving the Providence, Rhode Island area including Cranston, Coventry,
East Greenwich, Johnston, North Kingstown, Warwick, and West Warwick areas
500 Tollgate Road, Warwick, Rhode Island (RI) 02886 • 401.739.3900 fax 401.739.8626
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Invisalign
Dr. Smith is a Certified Invisalign Provider.
Bummed out about having braces?
Invisalign Teen gives you a whole new way to wear braces for a "clearly" amazing smile!
I have enough to worry about...
...now I need braces, too?
The team has a game this Friday night, homecoming is in a month, and what about my yearbook pictures?! Don't stress; with Invisalign Teen you won't need to turn down any dates, wear a paper bag over your head, or hide out in your room for two years! Invisalign Teen aligners are a perfect fit for your lifestyle, because aligners are:
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Pizza, Popcorn…no Problem!
You've probably heard from friends that with braces you won't be able to eat anything. With Invisalign Teen you can eat whatever you want! Unlike traditional metal braces, your Invisalign Teen aligners are removable, which means you can go ahead and eat all the things you love without worrying about breaking a bracket or losing a rubber band. Cheers!
It´s your life, keep it that way!
Invisalign aligners are really comfortable and very durable. They fit-in with any of your extracurricular activities. So, whether you're swimming a 50 meter race, out on the field throwing the football, or playing the clarinet with the school's band, you don't have to worry about your braces getting in the way!
See What Other Teens Are Saying:
Invisalign is on Facebook and Twitter! Connect with other teens to share your Invisalign experience and find out what other people have to say about their treatment.
E-mail or call our office today for a FREE consultation!
Schedule Your Complimentary Examination Now.
Serving the Providence, Rhode Island area including Cranston, Coventry,
East Greenwich, Johnston, North Kingstown, Warwick, and West Warwick areas
500 Tollgate Road, Warwick, Rhode Island (RI) 02886 • 401.739.3900 fax 401.739.8626
| STATE OF THE ART CARE |
Home | Dr. Smith | Philosophy | Complimentary Exam
Treatment | New
Technologies | Common Questions | Office
Location
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Your Suggestions | Games
Copyright © 2000-2003 Tollgate Orthodontics
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Invisalign FAQ
What is Invisalign Teen?
Invisalign is the invisible way to straighten teeth without braces. Invisalign uses a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually straighten teeth, without metal or wires.
How does Invisalign Teen work?
Invisalign uses 3-D computer imaging technology to depict the complete treatment plan from the initial position to the final desired (treatment) position from which a series of custom-made, clear "aligners" are produced. Each "aligner" moves teeth incrementally and is worn for about two weeks, then replaced by the next in the series until the final position is achieved.
What are the primary benefits of Invisalign Teen?
- Invisalign is clear. You can straighten your teeth without anyone knowing.
- Invisalign is removable. Unlike braces, you can eat and drink what you want during treatment. You can also brush and floss normally to maintain good oral hygiene.
- Invisalign is comfortable. There are no metal brackets or wires as with braces to cause mouth irritation, and no metal or wires means your periodic check and adjustment appointments are straightforward and short.
What are aligners made of?
Aligners are made of clear, strong medical grade plastic that is virtually invisible when worn.
What do aligners look like?
Aligners are clear and look similar to tooth-whitening trays, but are custom-made for a better fit to move teeth. Some orthodontists refer to them as "contact lenses for teeth."
Is this a new way to straighten teeth?
With over 800,000 cases already treated, there is a fast-growing body of clinical research supporting the effectiveness of the Invisalign system. With a robust library of clinical articles published in peer-reviewed journals, inclusion in several academic textbooks and a comprehensive collection of case-based research, the clinical evidence in support of the Invisalign system is well established.
How old is the company?
Align Technology, Inc., the company that manufactures Invisalign, was founded in 1997. Since then, Align has manufactured over 15,000,000 aligners.
Do doctors need special training in order to use Invisalign Teen?
Yes. Specific training is needed. All orthodontists (specialists) treating patients with Invisalign Teen must be "Invisilign certified."
How does Invisalign Teen effectively move teeth?
Invisalign aligners move teeth through the appropriate placement of controlled force on the teeth. Invisalign Teen not only controls forces, but also controls the timing of the force application. At each aligner stage (generally every two weeks), only certain teeth are allowed to move, and these movements are determined by the orthodontic treatment plan for that particular stage. This results in an efficient force delivery system.
Schedule Your Complimentary Examination Now.
Serving the Providence, Rhode Island area including Cranston, Coventry,
East Greenwich, Johnston, North Kingstown, Warwick, and West Warwick areas
500 Tollgate Road, Warwick, Rhode Island (RI) 02886 • 401.739.3900 fax 401.739.8626
| STATE OF THE ART CARE |
Home | Dr. Smith | Philosophy | Complimentary Exam
Treatment | New
Technologies | Common Questions | Office
Location
Payment Options | Contact Us | Email
Your Suggestions | Games
Copyright © 2000-2003 Tollgate Orthodontics
Website Designed by
Testimonials
he following is a sample of the compliments we have received from our patients:
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"You and your staff have been very pleasant and thorough in your care of my two daughters. My wife and I are delighted with their treatment and the follow-up care- their smiles are beautiful! We highly recommend Dr. Smith (and his caring staff) to anyone seeking orthodontic treatment." –Ron L. 
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Schedule Your Complimentary Examination Now.
Serving the Providence, Rhode Island area including Cranston, Coventry,
East Greenwich, Johnston, North Kingstown, Warwick, and West Warwick areas
500 Tollgate Road, Warwick, Rhode Island (RI) 02886 • 401.739.3900 fax 401.739.8626
| STATE OF THE ART CARE |
Home | Dr. Smith | Philosophy | Complimentary Exam
Treatment | New
Technologies | Common Questions | Office
Location
Payment Options | Contact Us | Email
Your Suggestions | Games
Copyright © 2000-2003 Tollgate Orthodontics
Website Designed by