Growth modification and early treatment

The American Association of Orthodontist recommends that a checkup should be done when a child is seven years old. This will give the orthodontist a chance to guide jaw growth, lower the risk of trauma to protruded front teeth, correct harmful oral habits, improve appearance, guide permanent teeth into a more favorable position and create a more pleasing arrangement of teeth, lips and face.

Orthodontists can diagnose problems with jaw growth and emerging teeth while some baby teeth are still present. Early treatment can help prevent more serious problems from developing at a later age and can reduce the complexity of later treatment. Growth modification can only be done at a young age when growth is present. Modification of jaw growth is not possible in adults and orthognathic surgery will have to be done to correct the jaw relationship. Dr Poon has instituted many early treatment for children successfully preventing the need for complex orthodontic treatment later.

Metal Braces (Colored)

Metal braces (stainless steel) are the most popular type of braces used throughout the country. If you choose metal braces for your treatment plan, Twin City Medical, utilizes the most comfortable, efficient, and technologically advanced metal braces available. Many patients enjoy having different colors placed on their braces as a means of personal expression and fun. Because it's so simple to change the colors, feel free to swap them at every visit!

Transparent Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces consist of wires and clear, ceramic brackets. These brackets are glued to the front of your teeth. The wires (one for each set of teeth) are attached to the brackets with transparent, tiny elastics called ligatures. Ceramic braces function just like traditional braces: the wire is shaped into the ideal position of your teeth, then threaded through the brackets. As the wires struggle to get back to their original shape, they gradually pressure your teeth into that shape as well. Your orthodontist will tighten the wires every four to six weeks.

Lingual Braces (Hidden behind teeth)

Always wanted to correct your smile quickly, without anyone knowing you are wearing braces? Lingual braces are a great option for those who want straight teeth and a beautiful smile without showing any braces. Lingual braces are placed behind the teeth so no one can see them.

Invisalign

Invisalign braces are great for people who do not have severe problems. The "braces" consist of strong plastic trays that are fabricated especially for you. They are indeed invisible. If your bite is not severely off and your teeth are not severely crooked, then Invisalign would be a good choice. You would be able to get your teeth straightened without anyone seeing that you are wearing "braces"!

This appeals to many adults, especially people who wore traditional braces as children and then need more treatment later in life.

Orthodontics combined with orthognathic surgery

In severe conditions whereby the jaws are not in the right relationship, orthodontics combined with jaw surgery (orthognathic surgery) is done to improve facial aesthetics and correct the bite. Such problems include protruding/ receding jaws, deep overbite, open bite, or the shifting of lower jaw to one side. This treatment is done in adults when growth has stopped.