- Dental ExaminationYou do — in fact, it’s more important than ever! Keeping teeth free of plaque (and potentially, decay) can be challenging when you’re wearing braces. Your dentist can help you avoid these problems with frequent cleanings and exams.
- X-rays
- Teeth CleaningYou know how important brushing and flossing are for keeping a healthy smile — especially now that you’re in orthodontic treatment. But sometimes it’s harder to clean your teeth effectively around an appliance’s brackets and wires. Here are some tools and tips you can try for better tooth cleaning.
- Fluoride TreatmentDepending on your situation, we may recommend an in-office or at-home supplemental fluoride treatment to boost your cavity resistance. An antiseptic rinse may also be recommended, to ease minor gum inflammation or irritation.
- Dental Bonding
- Gingivectomy and Gingivoplasty
- DenturesTo stay fresh and germ-free, all retainers need proper cleaning. A Hawley-type retainer can be brushed gently with a regular toothbrush — but a brush may scratch the clear aligner types. Denture cleaners, in powder or tablet form, as well as special retainer cleaners, can be used to clean most removable retainers. Fixed retainers are cleaned by brushing and flossing; a floss threader or interproximal brush can also be a helpful cleaning tool when needed.
- Oral SurgeryOne is SEVERE CROSSBITE, a condition where many or all of the upper teeth close inside the lower teeth. To treat this problem, a device called a palatal expander can be used, which gradually and painlessly widens the upper jaw; it’s especially effective when the jaw itself hasn’t fully developed. If we wait too long, a more complicated treatment — or even oral surgery — might be required to correct the problem.
- Jaw SurgeryJaw surgery can be used to remedy severe orthodontic problems involving the relationship between the teeth and jaws, including the correction of underbites (the most frequent surgical correction) and congenital abnormalities (birth defects) related to jaw development. It can even help alleviate sleep apnea, a potentially life-threatening condition.
- Maxillofacial SurgeryDr. Boese, Jr. is Past President of the Yosemite Dental Society and has been the regional California Dental Association P.A.C. Delegate for the last 10 years. Dr. Boese, Jr. has lectured on the pharmacological support and treatment of TMJ patients. He was trained by Dr. Mark Piper as a Level Two Practitioner whose emphasis was in advanced TMJ diagnosis and treatment planning with pharmacological support and splint therapy. Dr. Boese, Jr. has also been trained by Dr. William Arnett, the respected oral maxillofacial surgeon, using his computerized soft tissue and cephalometric treatment planning protocol for orthodontic and oral maxillofacial surgery patients.
- Tooth ExtractionsAnother condition that may benefit from early treatment is SEVERE CROWDING. This occurs when the jaws are too small to accommodate all of the permanent teeth. Either palatal expansion or tooth extraction may be recommended at this point, to help the adult teeth erupt (emerge from below the gums) properly. Even if braces are required later, the treatment time will likely be shorter and less complicated.
- OrthodonticsAt Orthodontics Exclusively, we take great pride in the outcome of our patients’ treatment. As your local FRESNO AND MERCED ORTHODONTIC EXPERTS, we only offer the most state-of-the-art treatment options so you receive the best in care. Our quality orthodontic care is perfect for patients of any age, with treatment plans that ensure healthy, beautiful smiles for every patient.
- Invisalign OrthodonticsThere’s a technology that’s (literally) putting a smile on plenty of young faces: the Invisalign® system of clear, removable aligners made especially for teens! If you (or a teenager you know) are a candidate for this treatment, you might find it’s the best fit for your lifestyle: It lets you eat what you want, makes it easier to clean your teeth — and best of all, it’s virtually invisible.
- BracesOne day in the not-too-distant future, your braces will come off. In a few moments, you’ll be free of bands and brackets, able to eat what you want and run your tongue over smooth, clean teeth. But, even on this happy occasion, please remember that you’re not quite done with orthodontic treatment yet: The next phase, called retention, is just beginning.
- Teeth WhiteningDo NOT eat, drink or smoke during treatment. Do NOT smoke immediately after treatment – wait for at least two hours. Foods and drinks containing strong colors should be avoided for at least 48 hours or consumed in moderation. Use gel at room temperature. When gel is not in use, store in a cool place.