Orthodontic Care
Problems with the movement and growth of the mouth need orthodontic care. This includes overbites, underbites, jaw dysfunction, or teeth that become impacted or crowded. Missing teeth can also cause a need for orthodontic care.
If you are looking for expert orthodontic care in Gastonia, North Carolina, call James B. Macomson, DDS, for an appointment.
Identifying alignment issues, fixing impacted teeth and the complications caused by the impaction, and avoiding crowding problems are just a few objections in orthodontia.
No matter how young a child is, an orthodontic exam is needed as soon as a problem is noticed with their teeth. All other children should be examined by an orthodontist by the time they are 7 years old. Complete dental growth is typically completed by age 12. Early examination of problems results in better treatment.
Children and adults with misaligned teeth will benefit from orthodontic care. Misaligned teeth affect more than just appearances. Speech and bite problems develop when teeth are not straight.
Orthodontic care includes all aspects of orthodontia available in our office. Diagnosis, guidance, and correction of dental irregularities restore smiles and function.
Call 704-867-3667 to schedule an appointment to make sure you have optimal dental function.
initial orthodontic exam
The initial orthodontic is the first step in a comprehensive treatment plan with James B. Macomson, DDS. Photos and x-rays are obtained to map out any problems that need to be addressed and help in developing the optimal treatment plan.
Dr. Macomson performs a full oral exam and discusses the photos and x-rays with the patient. If a treatment plan is needed, each step will be explained and every question answered.
At the initial visit, the patient will fill out paperwork with their full health history. A previous health history helps to identify potential dental problems that are related to some health conditions. Please arrive at the office 10 to 15 minutes before your appointment.
Some orthodontic procedures will need a mold of the teeth to begin. Advancements in dental technology have replaced the goopy mold process with digital equipment. By taking digital measurements, it is easier to create 3D imaging to visualize an entire treatment process.
If treatment is recommended, our office personnel will go over insurance and financing options. Scheduled will be discussed to start your journey to a better smile.
Call 704-867-3667 to schedule your initial consultation.
early orthodontic treatment
Early orthodontic treatment is designed to provide effective treatment for young children to avoid problems that could progress to serious problems later in life. Treating dental abnormalities early produces better long-term results for a gorgeous smile for a lifetime.
Children should have an orthodontic evaluation by the time they are age 7. At this age, early orthodontic treatment can be started to reduce the risk of misaligned teeth, gaps, or crowded teeth.
Early orthodontic treatment is also referred to as phase I of orthodontic treatment. Addressing alignment problems or skeletal issues in the jaw before the permanent teeth erupt is the goal of early treatment. Correcting abnormal growth and making sure that the permanent teeth are lined up properly can be done with palatal expanders, partial braces, and retainers.
The only way to determine if a child could benefit from early treatment is with an orthodontic consultation and dental x-rays. Issues with a narrow jaw, protruding teeth, malocclusions, or bite malformations can be treated and possibly reduce the need for future braces or aligners.
Dr. James B. Macomson in Gastonia, North Carolina, offers early orthodontic treatment to his pediatric patients. Call to schedule a consultation today.
ADolescent orthodontic treatment
The optimal time for orthodontic treatment is during adolescence unless problems with growth have been determined earlier in development. Generally, baby teeth are all shed by the ages of 11 to 13. Permanent teeth have come in, and poor alignment is first noticed. Other problems can include malocclusion (bad bite) or gaps in teeth. Once adult teeth have finished erupting, any orthodontic problems will gradually get worse as the adolescent gets older.
Since the body is still growing during adolescence, orthodontic treatments are more effective. The length of treatment is shorter than when adults present for teeth straightening. The cost of treatment is also increased after the jaw and face are fully developed.
Teenagers are notorious for requiring the application of braces, which they generally hate. Avoiding the stigma of “brace face” or “metal mouth” can be important to your teen. Dr. Macomson offers clear aligners instead of metal braces. Not only are they less noticeable, but they tend to work faster and do not require so many lifestyle changes.
No orthodontic treatment plan will be the same for each patient. However, most treatment lasts from six to 30 months. After successful treatment, a retainer will be required for several months and possibly for the remainder of adulthood.
Call James B. Macomson, DDS, to discuss treatment for your teen.
adult orthodontic treatment
More adults are seeking orthodontic services now than in the past. The availability of clear aligners is credited with the increased interest in the adult population. Investing in a straighter and more beautiful smile has significant social and professional benefits as well as improving self-image.
While adolescence is the ideal time to receive orthodontic treatment, it is never too old to seek dental corrections for the betterment of lifestyle or appearance. Adult orthodontics is different in a couple of ways because the bones and teeth are already mature. Some orthodontic appliances will not work for an adult like they do in an adolescent or child. Adults are also more prone to gum disease which can create a less than ideal prognosis when expecting teeth and bones to move where they should be. If gum disease is found during the orthodontic evaluation, it will need to be treated any other treatments can begin.
Oral hygiene will also be imperative during orthodontics. Professional cleanings and a good home oral routine should be adhered to for maintaining periodontal health.
When looking for straighter teeth in adults, there are several options available. Regular metal braces can still be used, but most adults prefer clear braces or clear aligners. Retainers must also be worn for the prescribed amount of time to prevent the teeth from moving back into their original position.
James B. Macomson, DDS, provides orthodontic services for adults in Gastonia, North Carolina.
SMART MOVES® CLEAR ALIGNERS
James B. Macomson, DDS, offers Smart Moves Clear Aligners for patients who prefer to avoid metal braces. Smart Moves provides excellent teeth alignment and a beautiful smile using state-of-the-art technology.
Smart Moves incorporates soft and hard aligners to encourage teeth to move into the perfect position. A progressive series of aligners is custom-made for each patient for precise and comfortable tooth movement. Smart Moves aligners are nearly invisible, making them perfect for teens or adults.
Retainers are essential to keep teeth in position, but if the teeth move too much, Smart Moves are great for realignment.
Smart Moves can also be used to prep the mouth for more comprehensive orthodontic treatments. If a dental implant is necessary but the surrounding teeth need to make room, these clear aligners will provide excellent results.
Aligners are a good choice for patients wishing to avoid major life changes to straighten their teeth. They can be removed for eating, playing sports, and cleaning.
Dr. Macomson will help you explore all options and determine if Smart Moves aligners are the best for your needs. Call 704-867-3667 for a consultation appointment.
fixed appliances (Common name-brace)
Our orthodontist can align your teeth into a strong, straight position when he provides braces. We will bond brackets and wires to your teeth in order to gently shift them so you can have a healthy, beautiful smile. Please schedule an appointment at the practice of James B. Macomson, DDS, MSO, PA if you want to benefit from our braces in Gastonia, North Carolina.
Braces are an orthodontic treatment option that can help you achieve a smile that is straighter and healthier. One of the most common orthodontic treatments available, braces work to improve your smile by gradually, gently realigning your teeth. Braces consist of a system of metal brackets, wires and bands. The brackets are attached to the front of your teeth and are connected to each other through the use of a metal wire and bands. As we adjust the wire, the braces guide your teeth to their ideal positions in your smile. Ceramic braces are also often available, which are the same color as your teeth for a more discreet orthodontic option.
If you have ever wanted your smile to be straighter and more attractive, braces may be right for your smile. With braces, we are able to correct orthodontic issues such as:
Crowded teeth
Gapped teeth
Misaligned teeth
Problems with the bite, including crossbite, open bite, underbite and overbite
During your treatment, you will visit our office on a regular basis so we can make sure that your braces are adjusted as needed to continue progressing toward a straighter, healthier smile. Our skilled orthodontist and team will help you reach all of your oral health and appearance goals through personalized, high-quality care. To learn more about braces, please contact our office today.
orthodontic retainers
After you experience an orthodontic treatment, you can keep the results for a lifetime by wearing a retainer. Our orthodontist helps to produce this oral appliance so it fits comfortably in your mouth and keeps your teeth in their new position. Contact Dr. James B. Macomson if you want to learn more about our retainers in Gastonia, North Carolina.
A retainer is a custom-made oral appliance often used to maintain the alignment of your teeth after orthodontic treatment. If you have finished your orthodontic treatment, our orthodontist may recommend a retainer to keep your smile properly aligned. As you age, your teeth tend to shift; the retainer ensures that your teeth remain in correct alignment for optimal oral health, functionality and appearance. There are three main types of retainers available:
Hawley retainers consist of wires and clasps embedded in a plastic body that covers the roof of the mouth (for the upper arch) or lies along the tongue-side of the teeth (for the lower arch). The clasps fit around certain teeth to anchor the retainer in place, while the wire arches across the front of the teeth to maintain their alignment.
Clear retainers are made of clear plastic and fit snugly over the teeth. A clear retainer is usually more discreet than a Hawley retainer, although it may not be as durable.
Fixed retainers, also called bonded or permanent retainers, are permanently attached to the backside of the front teeth. They prevent the teeth from shifting out of place and can only be removed by a dental professional.
Our orthodontist will help you determine whether you need a retainer after your orthodontic treatment. For more information, we welcome you to call us today!