facebook
slide

Orthodontic Terms

  • bonding

    Bonding

    The process of attaching brackets to your teeth using a special safe adhesive.

  • ceph xray

    Cephalometric X-Ray

    An x-ray of the head that shows if your teeth are aligned and growing properly.

  • consultation

    Consultation

    Spaces between teeth are another common problem treated with orthodontics. Like crowding, spacing may be related to a tooth-to-jaw size disharmony.

  • Debonding

    The removal of cemented orthodontic brackets.

  • extractions

    Extractions

    Extractions of impacted or problematic wisdom teeth to make space for orthodontic treatment.

  • interceptive treatment

    Interceptive Treatment

    Orthodontic treatment that is usually done between the ages of 6 and 10. The objective of interceptive orthodontic treatment is to provide orthopedic intervention, so that later orthodontic treatment goes quicker and is less painful.

  • expander

    Interproximal reduction (IPR)

    Interproximal reduction (IPR) is the removal of small amounts of outer enamel tooth surface between two adjacent teeth. It is a means to acquire additional space to create ideal tooth alignment. Alternative names include: slenderizing, stripping, enamel reduction, and reproximation.

  • hygiene

    Oral Hygiene

    Effective brushing and flossing is one of the most critical actions needed from patients during braces. Regular visits to the general dentist for examination and cleaning are also essential. The results of inadequate oral hygiene include decalcification (white spots/marks), gingivitis (inflammation of the gums), and periodontal disease (inflammation leading to bone loss).

  • adjustment

    Orthodontic Adjustment

    An evaluation of your progress where your wires may be changed to keep your treatment on track and moving forward.

  • records

    Orthodontic Records

    These records, which include cephalometric and panoramic x-rays, digital photos and study models, help your orthodontist determine what treatment needs to be done.

  • panoramic xray

    Panoramic X-Ray

    An x-ray taken by a machine that rotates around your head to give your orthodontist a picture of your teeth, jaws and other important information.

  • surgery

    Surgery

    Orthognathic surgery is surgery performed on the bones of the jaws to change their positions. It may be considered for functional, cosmetic, or health reasons. It is surgery commonly performed on the jaws in conjunction with orthodontic treatment, which straightens the teeth.

  • two phase

    Two-Phase Treatment

    Two phase orthodontic treatment is a very specialized process that encompasses tooth straightening and physical, facial changes. The major advantage of a two-phase treatment is to maximize the opportunity to accomplish the ideal healthy, functional, and esthetic result that will remain stable throughout your life.

  • Wax Bite

    A procedure to measure how well your teeth come together. You bite a sheet of wax and leave bitemarks in the wax. This helps the orthodontist relate the upper and lower models of your teeth together.