Adult Treatment
Initial Exam
WHAT WILL HAPPEN AT THE EVALUATION APPOINTMENT?
A thorough examination will be conducted to decide if there is a need for orthodontic treatment. The evaluation will determine if there is enough room to accommodate all of the teeth, if the top teeth are lined up correctly with the bottom teeth, if any teeth are crooked or not oriented in the right position and if there are missing or extra teeth? The medical-dental history will also be reviewed to determine if clenching or grinding is present, and if there is a history of jaw joint problems?
IS THERE A COST FOR THIS VISIT?
No. The evaluation is free
WHAT WILL I LEARN FROM THE EVALUATION?
There are five important questions that will be answered during the consultation:
- Is there an orthodontic problem, and if so, what is it?
- What must be done to correct the problem?
- Will any permanent teeth need to be removed?
- How long will the treatment take to complete?
- How much will the treatment cost?
In addition, we will take the time to answer any other questions you may have.
HOW DO I SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT FOR A COMPLIMENTARY EVALUATION?
Call or e-mail our office today for a complimentary (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
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Common Questions
IS IT TOO LATE TO HAVE BRACES IF I AM AN ADULT?
No. Age is not a factor. Healthy teeth can be moved at any age. In fact, most orthodontic problems can be corrected as easily for adults as for children. In some cases, however, complicating factors, such as tooth loss and lack of jaw growth, may create different treatment planning needs for an adult. Twenty percent of our patients are adults seeking the treatment they did not or could not have when they were younger.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF ADULT ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT?
When left untreated, many orthodontic problems become worse. Addressing orthodontic problems earlier can often avoid the additional dental care and cost required to treat the more serious problems that develop in later years.
The benefits of orthodontic treatment for adults include:
- Improve the smile/self confidence
- Reduce appearance-consciousness
- Improve the ability to clean crooked and crowded teeth to prevent not only tooth decay, but gum disease and tooth loss
- Treatment can be very advantageous to reduce the potential for other orthodontic problems, such as abnormal wear of tooth surfaces, excessive stress on supporting bone and gum tissue, or misalignment of the jaw joints (which may result in chronic headaches and/or pain in the face or neck). Problems such as crowding, crossbites, overbites, underbites or other alignment problems can all contribute to the above
- Eliminate or reduce discomfort which may accompany TMJ (jaw joint) problems
- Correct harmful oral habits such as clenching/grinding
- Improve speech
- Guide permanent teeth into more favorable positions
- Develop space for crowded, impacted or blocked-out permanent teeth
- Improve facial balance
- Improve lip closure
If you notice a problem with your teeth, it is in your best interest to make the appointment. Untreated orthodontic problems may become worse. They may lead to tooth decay, gum disease, destruction of the bone that supports the teeth, abnormal wear of tooth surfaces, inefficient chewing function, and misalignment of the jaw joints which sometimes leads to chronic headaches or pain in the face or neck. Treatment by an orthodontist to correct a problem early may be less costly than the dental care required to treat more serious problems that can develop in later years.
Everyone wants and deserves a beautiful smile, and everyone should have a healthy one.
WILL I PAY EXTRA FOR "CLEAR" BRACES?
No. We want you to look your best and to feel as comfortable as possible while undergoing treatment.
WHAT ALTERNATIVE DO I HAVE TO WEARING BRACES?
If the thought of wearing braces is all that is stopping you from getting the smile you've always wanted, we have some very good news for you. Invisalign is a breakthrough in orthodontics that uses a clear, virtually invisible tooth-aligner to gradually move your teeth.... without metal wires or brackets. Aligners are removable and custom-made for your teeth through the combination of our expertise and the latest in 3-dimensional computer graphic technology. Invisalign straightens your teeth without calling attention to them.
WHAT ARE LINGUAL BRACES?
Lingual braces are mounted behind a patient's teeth (on the inside). They were popular many years ago before the advent of Invisalign and "clear" braces, but are seldom used anymore. They are generally less comfortable than traditional braces since they contact the tongue, require a greater number of visits to complete treatment, are more costly. Also, some people have trouble eating and talking with lingual braces.
HOW DOES ADULT TREATMENT DIFFER FROM THAT OF CHILDREN?
Adults are no longer growing and may have experienced some loss of teeth and breakdown of the bone and soft tissue (gums) that supports the teeth. For these patients, close coordination may be required among the dental specialties, (e.g., the orthodontist, oral surgeon, periodontist and family dentist), to assure that the treatment plan is well managed.
DIFFERENCES THAT SEPARATE ADULT TREATMENT FROM THAT OF CHILDREN:
LACK OF JAW GROWTH: The distance or amount the teeth can be moved with braces alone may not be enough to adequately address a severe jaw discrepancy problem in the adult patient. On occasion, these cases may require jaw surgery.
GUM OR BONE LOSS (PERIODONTAL BREAKDOWN): Adults are more likely to have experienced damage or loss of the gum tissue and bone supporting their teeth (periodontal disease). Periodontal disease is a chronic bacterial infection that affects the gums and bone supporting the teeth. It can affect one tooth or many teeth. Periodontal disease begins when the bacteria in plaque (the sticky, colorless film that constantly forms on your teeth) causes inflammation in the gums.
The mildest form of the disease is called gingivitis. The gums become red, swell and bleed easily. Gingivitis is often linked to poor oral hygiene and is often reversible with professional treatment and good oral home care.
Untreated gingivitis can advance to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease. With time, plaque can spread and grow below the gum line. Toxins produced by the bacteria in plaque irritate the gums and stimulate a chronic inflammatory response in which the body, in essence, turns on itself and the tissues and bone that support the teeth are broken down and destroyed. Gums separate from the teeth, forming pockets (spaces between the teeth and gums) that become infected. As the disease progresses, the pockets deepen and more gum tissue and bone are destroyed until, eventually, teeth can become loose and may have to be removed.
The good news is that teeth that are properly aligned are less prone to gum disease.
Periodontal treatment by the patient’s dentist or a periodontist may be necessary before, during and/or after orthodontic treatment. Severe bone loss can also limit the amount and direction of tooth movement that is advisable. Adults who have a history of or concerns about periodontal disease might also see a periodontist (a dental specialist who treats diseases of the gums and bone) during the course of orthodontic treatment.
WORN, DAMAGED OR MISSING TEETH: Extra space resulting from missing teeth that are not replaced may lead to progressive shifting and drifting of other teeth, which, in turn, worsens the bite, increases the potential for periodontal problems and makes any treatment more difficult. Worn, damaged or missing teeth can make orthodontic treatment more challenging. Teeth may gradually wear and move into positions where they can be restored only after precise orthodontic movement. Damaged or broken teeth may not look good or function well even after orthodontic treatment unless they are carefully restored by the patient's dentist.
I HAVE PAINFUL JAW MUSCLES AND JAW JOINTS- CAN AN ORTHODONTIST HELP?
Yes. One of the problems commonly associated with jaw muscle and jaw joint discomfort is bruxing, that is, habitual grinding or clenching of the teeth, particularly at night. Bruxism is a muscle habit pattern that can cause severe wearing of the teeth, and overloading and trauma to the jaw joint structures. Acute or chronically sore and painful jaw muscles may accompany the bruxing habit. A well-trained orthodontist (specialist) can help diagnose this problem, and may recommend the placement of a bite splint or nightguard appliance that can protect the teeth and relieve discomfort by helping the jaw muscles to relax. In extreme cases, structural damage within the jaw joints may require joint surgery and/or restoration of damaged teeth. Referral to an oral surgeon may be suggested for some of these problems.
CAN I STILL HAVE BRACES IF I HAVE MISSING TEETH?
Yes. When permanent teeth are missing, it is common for the remaining teeth to drift, tip or shift. This movement can create a poor bite and uneven spacing that lead to functional, esthetic and periodontal problems. Many complicated tooth restorations, such as implants, crowns and bridges, can be best accomplished when the remaining teeth are properly aligned and the bite has been corrected. Orthodontic treatment will provide proper alignment for your dentist to replace the missing teeth.
WILL I HAVE TO HAVE ANY TEETH REMOVED FOR BRACES?
Today’s (Damon System) technology has resulted in advanced orthodontic procedures that rarely require the removal of teeth. Straight teeth and a balanced facial profile are always the goal.
I SEE ADS FOR PERFECT TEETH IN ONLY 1 OR 2 VISITS TO THE DENTIST. WILL THAT GIVE ME STRAIGHT TEETH?
Be wary of ads like this- a quick fix generally serves only to mask (cover-up) underlying problems, leaving more serious problems to develop in the future. For example, the potential for periodontal problems increases dramatically when a dentist uses veneers to fill in areas where teeth are crowded (in an effort to provide the illusion of straight teeth), since access for oral hygiene is then severely restricted.. Crooked teeth should be evaluated by an orthodontist (specialist) so that the most appropriate treatment plan can be prescribed.
HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE TO COMPLETE TREATMENT?
Treatment time obviously depends on each patient's specific orthodontic problem, but treatments today range from 5-30 months.
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.
WHAT PAYMENT OPTIONS ARE AVAILABLE?
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 $ 50. It is our aim to make it easier for you to get the treatment or procedures you want and need.
HOW DOES MY INSURANCE WORK?
Today many dental policies include orthodontic benefits. As a courtesy, if you provide us with the necessary information, we will be happy to contact your insurance carrier for you to determine your orthodontic benefits. Since we participate with most insurance companies, we will be happy to complete and file the necessary insurance claims on your behalf.
HOW OFTEN WILL I HAVE APPOINTMENTS?
Appointments are scheduled according to each individual patient's needs. With the latest technology, most patients are seen every 6-10 weeks. If there are specific situations that require more frequent monitoring, appointments may be scheduled more often.
DO BRACES HURT?
With the latest technology, many of our patients do not report soreness following their visits! Occasionally, teeth may be sore for a day or two, and in these situations, the discomfort can be managed with medications, such as ibuprofen (e.g., Advil, Motrin) or acetaminophen (e.g., Tylenol). We often remind our patients that, it does not have to hurt to work!
DO YOU GIVE SHOTS?
No. Shots are not necessary for orthodontic treatment.
DO I NEED TO SEE MY FAMILY DENTIST WHILE IN BRACES?
Yes. Regular check-ups with your family dentist are very important while in braces.
ARE THERE FOODS I CANNOT EAT WHILE I HAVE BRACES?
Yes. Click to View a List of Items to Avoid While Wearing Braces. Emergency appointments to repair broken or damaged braces can be avoided by carefully following instructions regarding foods.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD I BRUSH MY TEETH WHILE IN BRACES?
Patients should brush their teeth after each meal and brush and floss at bedtime. We also recommend the use of antibacterial and fluoride rinses to help protect the teeth. The specific details of our oral hygiene program will be reviewed in depth following appliance placement.
WHAT IS AN EMERGENCY APPOINTMENT? HOW ARE THOSE HANDLED?
If something happens and your braces are causing discomfort or if something is broken, you should call our office. In most cases, these issues are simple to resolve and often do not require a special visit.
WHAT IF THE EMERGENCY OCCURS AFTER NORMAL OFFICE HOURS?
We are available after normal working hours for emergencies. To reach us after hours, simply call the office and listen for the number where we can be reached.
CAN I WEAR BRACES EVEN THOUGH I HAVE CROWNS AND MISSING TEETH?
Yes. A tooth with a crown will move just like a tooth with a simple filling.
WILL I HAVE TO WEAR RETAINERS?
Orthodontics is a process of moving teeth through the bone into new positions. Once the teeth have been moved into their desired positions, retainers will be placed to maintain the correction. Once stabilization occurs, we encourage our patients to continue to wear their retainers on a nightly basis to maintain their beautiful smile.
WHAT MAKES DR. SMITH AN EXCEPTIONAL ORTHODONTIST?
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 of specialty 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. * Finally, it is notable that The Consumer’s Research Council of America, an independent Washington, D.C.- based research organization, recognized Dr. Smith as one of the best oral health care specialists (orthodontists) in the United States.
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. Smith, you will 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.
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.
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
What adults are saying...
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I noticed a change in both my appearance and my speech within just 1 month of treatment. Tony |
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I expected straight teeth, but now people say I am beautiful. Charlene |
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At first, I was uncomfortable with the thought of having braces at my age. But the results I saw from my Damon Braces were so dramatic. I feel like I got a facelift! My friends and family say I look ten years younger. Catherine |
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After years of living with very crooked teeth, I was told I would need surgery to fix my smile. With the Damon System, surgery wasn't required. I never thought I could look this good, so comfortably, and in such a short time. Andrew |
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Not only do I like my teeth, but I can see how a full smile has made a dramatic change in my whole face. It gives me a new sense of confidence. Tammy |
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One Adult's Story...
For Sherry, it wasn't only about straightening her teeth, it was about turning back the clock for a more youthful appearance and it changed her whole face. Her smile became wider and fuller the appearance of dark triangles at the corners of her mouth disappeared. In just a matter of months, she had a more youthful look and a whole new outlook on life. The Damon System actually changed her entire face. It was almost like a face-lift.
When it comes to looking better, many adults today are opting for extensive and invasive procedures like plastic surgery and facelifts. But many people like Sherry have chosen to change their looks and their lives with the Damon System Bracelift™.
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