Esteem Dental & Orthodontics
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Our team will be glad to answer any questions you may have over the phone or online about your appointment or to schedule your initial consultation!
Common Questions About Orthodontics and Braces
How Do I know If My Child Needs Orthodontic Care?
If you want to improve the look and feel of your smile, then you can see the orthodontist at any age. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children first visit an orthodontist around the age of seven; however, orthodontic treatment is not exclusive to children and teens. About one in every five orthodontic patients is actually over the age of 21. So whether you are considering treatment for yourself or for a child, any time is a good time to visit the orthodontist!
What Are Some Signs That Someone Needs Orthodontic Care?
There are many signs that you or your child could need orthodontic care. We’ll help you figure out what to look for!
There are some things to look out for at any age which could necessitate an appointment with an orthodontist for further evaluation.
These Symptoms Include:
- Embarrassment while talking or smiling
- Hiding your smile
- Difficulty in chewing or biting food
- Difficulty cleaning teeth or removing food stuck between your teeth
What Is Two-Phase Treatment and Why Does It Matter?
This refers to two separate parts in our approach to a great smile, to first prevent larger orthodontic treatment by helping a younger child who has moderate or severe orthodontic concerns while their teeth are still developing (Phase 1), or to subsequently address problems of alignment once all permanent teeth have erupted (Phase 2).
It isn’t a chance for orthodontists to prolong your time spent in braces or at the office, we promise! It’s simply our best way to care for you depending on how your teeth are developing and guarantee a great end result.
The first phase of treatment, Phase I, aims to treat common problems early, such as crossbites (of the front or back teeth) and crowding. This phase of treatment usually begins while the permanent front teeth are erupting (typically around the age of 8-9), and can help to turn a difficult orthodontic problem into a more manageable one. It can also greatly help improve self-confidence if embarrassment has occurred due to position of the developing teeth. We usually recommend this treatment when waiting could cause orthodontic problems or social problems to worsen.
The second phase of treatment, Phase II, is recommended after all permanent teeth have completed eruption. This serves to complete proper alignment which cannot be achieved with baby teeth present. In our office, this phase of treatment is significantly discounted due to the expense of Phase I treatment.
Does Everyone Need Phase One (Phase 1) Treatment?
No!
We evaluate to find out if this will save you time, expense and hassle down the road. But the majority of our patients can wait until they have all their permanent teeth to begin treatment.
My Braces Hurt When I Was A Kid? Do They Hurt Now?!
Braces should not be painful, but you may feel a small amount of discomfort for a couple days as your teeth, gums, cheeks, and mouth get used to your new braces.
Orthodontic technology and treatment use much lighter and smaller technology to achieve the same end result in a shorter time. Everything we use and choose works to minimize your discomfort and get you through your treatment as quick as possible.
How Long Is this Going To Take?
The amount of time spent in braces will vary depending on the individual patient because every smile responds differently to treatment. Treatment times can take anywhere between six and 30 months, but most standard treatments take about 18 months.
My Child Is Missing Teeth. Can They Still Get Braces?
At Esteem Dental we believe getting braces becomes even more necessary to prevent future orthodontic and dental problems when tooth loss occurs. Several problems could result from the spaces left by missing teeth, such as the existing teeth drifting into these spaces. In addition to being visually unattractive, drifting teeth can lead to recession of the surrounding gum tissue, bone loss, difficulty with normal dental function, and the inability to have the missing teeth properly replaced. If we can fix your dental alignment, this will often fix these problems and provide your dentist the ideal space to replace the missing teeth and restore the smile you desire.
Am I Too Old For Braces?
Never! We have a number of adult patients in our practice! We’re good about making the process great for adults as well.
You may see the pace of your transformation move a little slower than a developing child’s would, but you can still see amazing changes! We’ve treated patients in their 80s!
Do You Pull Teeth?
We do our best to help our patients keep all of their original teeth. Sometimes that requires Phase 1 care!
With Non-Extraction therapy, we aim to change the profile by manipulating the arches to make room for existing teeth, rather than extracting permanent teeth.
Don’t worry too much about which type of treatment you will need. Today’s technology means more and more we can avoid extraction, but we’ll always choose the best option for best end result, and work to minimize your worries.
Common Questions About Dentistry in Lake Nona
What is General Dentistry?
General dentistry includes all the procedures you expect when you go to the dentist. It covers cleanings, check-ups, emergency repairs, and other services such as x-rays and dental hygiene education.
What is Oral Hygiene?
Oral hygiene is the term we use to describe the act of caring for your mouth and everything in it. It’s brushing and flossing your teeth everyday. It’s the use of mouthwash and tongue scrapers. It’s wearing your night guard so that you don’t wear down your teeth if you grind them. It’s going in for a check-up and cleaning twice a year.
Oral Pathology, Radiology, & Medicine
We treat all kind of oral pathologies at Esteem Dental. What does that mean? It means that whatever is wrong with your teeth, we will work with you to treat it. You might need a filling because of a cavity or need a tooth (or teeth!) removed to prevent overcrowding. Whatever your problem might be, we are equipped to help you get on the road to oral health.
Pediatric Dentistry
We see patients from the time they get their first teeth. The reason for this is to watch as a child’s teeth and palate develop in order to make sure that everything is healthy and to head off any problems that might develop as early as possible. We are able to provide this care at a level that the child understands and we put them at ease so that they love coming to the dentist.
Preventative & Community Dentistry
Good health begins with a healthy mouth. We are committed to helping people of all ages avoid costly and painful procedures in the future by teaching preventative care such as brushing, flossing, and biannual visits to the dentist. Because we love the community we serve, we seek a variety of ways to help get the word out on good oral hygiene practices.
Family Dentistry
From child to parent to grandparent, we’ve got you covered. We serve an array of ages and are glad to see whole families work their way into oral health.
Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery
Orthodontics
Periodontics
Periodontics is a specialty that specifically relates to the gums. A patient might require a procedure like a root canal or a graft.
Prosthodontics
Sometimes a tooth has to come out. Or maybe multiple teeth. What goes in their place? A dental prosthesis like an implant or a bridge or even dentures.
General Dentistry
Learn about our philosophy of dental care and see how we can help you!
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Cosmetic Dentistry
Cosmetic dentistry allows us to repair and improve the health of your smile.
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Children’s Dentistry
We treat patients of all ages. From kids to seniors, Esteem Dental is eager to serve you.
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Restorative Dentistry
Restorative dentistry allows us to restore teeth to their original function & appearance.
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Orthodontics
Our dental office takes advantage of modern orthodontic technology, like braces and Invisalign.
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Dental Implants
Dental implants offer a natural looking replacement for teeth. It’s simpler than you may think!
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Helping You Smile Confidently
Thinking About Braces for You or Someone in Your Family?
At Esteem Dental we offer clear aligners like Invisalign. They are one of the best alternatives to metal braces. Both teens and adults love Invisalign because clear aligners offer many of the same benefits as braces with fewer restrictions. Find out if clear aligners are right for you or your family with our consult.
Esteem Dental in Lake Nona, Florida.
Esteem Dental A Proud Provider Of General Dentistry Services
The Esteem Dental team is honored to serve Lake Nona and all of South Orlando with exceptional dental care. Let us know how our dental team can serve you and your family. We can’t wait to meet you!
