Treatments

The Right Age for Orthodontics

The right age to begin orthodontic treatment can vary. However, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age seven. Early assessment allows us to identify potential issues and determine the best time to start treatment, which can simplify future procedures and lead to better outcomes.

For adults, it's never too late to improve your smile. Orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age, and adults especially appreciate the benefits of a beautiful and healthy smile. Whether you're considering braces or clear aligners, we're here to guide you through your options and determine the ideal time to begin.

Phase 1 & Phase 2

During the initial complimentary orthodontic evaluation, Dr. Cranford may determine that treatment is not necessary until all the permanent teeth have finished erupting. As a result, we would like to maintain our relationship with you and your child at regular six-month intervals for continued complimentary evaluations to ensure that dental development and eruption are proceeding normally.

Phase 1, also known as early interceptive treatment, typically begins between the ages of six and ten. This phase targets developing dental issues early, which can reduce the need for more invasive treatments later on. The goal is to correct jaw growth, address overcrowding, and ensure that permanent teeth have the space to emerge correctly.

Phase 2 treatment usually starts once most of the permanent teeth have erupted, generally around the age of eleven to thirteen. This stage focuses on aligning the teeth perfectly and adjusting the bite, ensuring each tooth is in the ideal position for both function and aesthetics.

Transforming Smiles with Braces

Braces are a time-tested solution for correcting dental misalignments and achieving beautifully aligned smiles.

Traditional metal braces are the most common type of braces. Crafted from nickel-free high-grade steel, they have evolved to be smaller and more comfortable than ever before. At each appointment, you can personalize your braces with a variety of colorful elastics, allowing you to customize your look while your smile transforms.

Ceramic braces offer a less noticeable alternative to traditional metal braces using clear or tooth-colored brackets. These braces blend in with your teeth, providing an aesthetic solution without sacrificing functionality. Ideal for patients who seek a discreet way to straighten their teeth, ceramic braces deliver the same effective results with a subtler appearance.

Clear Aligners

Clear aligners offer a virtually invisible way to straighten your teeth without visible metal brackets. We use Invisalign and other aligners to provide a clear, custom-fit solution for straightening teeth. These aligners are removable, allowing for easier eating and cleaning, and are custom-made using advanced 3D-imaging technology to ensure a precise, comfortable fit. Perfect for both adults and teens, clear aligners are a discreet and effective way to achieve your ideal smile.

Secure New Smile with Retainers

Retainers are crucial for maintaining the position of your teeth after orthodontic treatment to ensure long-lasting results.

Fixed retainers consist of a thin wire bonded discreetly behind the lower or upper front teeth, providing a permanent solution to keep teeth in their new position. Ideal for those who prefer not to worry about removable options, these retainers are durable and effective, requiring minimal maintenance aside from regular cleaning as part of your dental hygiene routine.

Hawley retainers are traditional, removable retainers made from a combination of metal wire and acrylic. They are designed to fit comfortably over the roof of the mouth or along the lower teeth. Their durability and ease of cleaning make them a popular choice for long-term use.

Essix retainers are made from clear, strong plastic that snugly covers all the teeth, making them virtually invisible when worn. These retainers are favored for their aesthetic appeal and are particularly effective at maintaining the alignment of teeth after braces. Lightweight and comfortable, Essix retainers are an excellent choice for patients seeking a discreet post-treatment option.

Technology at Cranford Orthodontics

Embrace the future of orthodontics with our advanced diagnostic and treatment technologies.

The iTero scanner revolutionizes the way we plan and monitor orthodontic treatments, providing highly accurate, 3D digital impressions of your teeth. This technology eliminates the need for uncomfortable traditional molds, offering a faster, more comfortable patient experience and precise fitting for Invisalign aligners and other orthodontic appliances.

Our digital X-ray technology significantly reduces radiation exposure compared to traditional X-rays while providing instant, high-resolution images. These detailed images allow us to diagnose underlying issues more accurately and efficiently, facilitating a more effective treatment plan tailored to your specific orthodontic needs.

Digital photography is an integral part of our practice, used for accurate before-and-after comparisons and ongoing treatment assessments. This technology enhances our ability to track treatment progress, adjust plans as needed, and share visual results with patients, ensuring transparency and involvement throughout their orthodontic journey.