Orthodontics North Canton Ohio

Achieve Your Beautiful Smile with Advanced Orthodontics at Thomas & Associates in North Canton, Ohio

Thomas & Associates provides orthodontics care and offers the most advanced teeth straightening technology.

Ditch the Metal Mouth: Modern Orthodontic Solutions for Adults & Children

When you think of orthodontics, do you think of kids with a mouthful of metal wires? At Thomas & Associates, we want to change your way of thinking. We offer the most advanced teeth straightening technology and it’s not just for kids.

What is Orthodontics?

Orthodontics is the practice of treating dental malocclusion or “bad bite.” This dental problem has a broad range, from crowded, crooked or missing teeth to overbites, underbites and cross bites. Dentists often identify these problems in children as their mouth develops, but adults can also get great benefit from orthodontic work, even if it’s a correction that has simply been put off.

Braces for your child

Your child should receive an orthodontic evaluation by age 7. Early intervention is a big advantage for children, allowing for treatment of problems that can cause pain or future developmental problems. Often early treatment can aid in shortening treatment that may be needed later on. Dr. Thomas can advise you as to what treatment is appropriate and how it may impact future treatment that may be necessary.

In most cases, a child will wear braces for about 24 months, although treatment does vary based on the condition and age of the patient. When braces are removed the patient is fitted with a retainer.

Adult braces

Adults who are considering braces will receive a thorough evaluation to determine whether other treatments may be necessary before or in conjunction with braces. While adult treatment can take a little longer because facial bones have stopped growing, orthodontic procedures have been successful in improving painful conditions as well as cosmetic issues that can detract from appearance and confidence.

What to expect

Your first orthodontic visit with Dr. Thomas will include a complete exam, x-rays of the teeth, head and jaw, and creation of plaster molds of the teeth. Our focus is on creating a treatment plan that perfectly suits you. With many new and advanced options for correcting dental problems, we can customize your experience for the best results in the shortest amount of time.

Once a treatment plan is chosen and the orthodontic appliance is constructed, you will be scheduled for regular visits to our office. During these visits, adjustments are made based on your treatment. It is important during this time to keep your appointments and use any devices prescribed, such as rubber bands, to keep your treatment on track.

Your braces or orthodontic appliance will be removed once your dental problem has been corrected. You will then be fitted with a retainer, fixed or removable, or a combination of the two, in order to maintain the new position of your teeth. It is important to use your retainer as directed.

The importance of your retainer

Patients often ask their how long they have to wear their retainers after having their braces removed. Today, the answer is usually, “For as long as you want your teeth to be straight.” This doesn’t mean you are wearing a retainer 24-7 for the rest of your life, but it is important to follow the directions if you want to maintain the correction you worked so hard to attain.

Braces move teeth through use of force, tightening wires to push teeth in a particular direction. Once removed, it takes time for the bones and ligaments to re-tighten and hold the teeth securely in their new position. It can take up to a year for the teeth to stabilize.

Depending on your situation, you may be fitted with a permanent retainer, in which a wire is fitted and cemented behind the teeth, where it is invisible. Often this is done with bottom teeth and you receive a removable retainer that is custom fit for your top teeth.

During the first 3 to 6 months, you will probably be directed to wear your retainer 22 hours a day, eventually reducing time so that you are wearing it every night for at least the first year. It is crucial that you follow your instructions to prevent your teeth from slowly drifting out of alignment.

Braces today

Braces have come a long way from the silver brackets and wires of 30 years ago. Today, children and adults alike are fitted with braces that are tooth-colored, multi-colored or even invisible, so no matter what your age or circumstances, you can choose to have a beautiful smile without concern about the treatment period. Most people feel the time it takes is well worth it for the benefits in both comfort and appearance.

Ask us about our advanced techniques and orthodontic materials that offer quicker and more comfortable treatment no matter your age or dental problem. Dr. Thomas wants to help you have the beautiful smile you deserve.

If you think your child may need braces in North Canton, Ohio, or if you are concerned about your teeth, contact Thomas & Associates in Canton, North Canton or surrounding Ohio area.