Your First Visit...

Upon your arrival, please say hello to our scheduling coordinator who will assist you during check-in. Dr. Neale will be notified that you have arrived and you, or you and your child will be escorted to one of our comfortable rooms for the new patient exam where Dr. Neale will see you immediately.

At this complementary visit, our objective is to identify the long-term orthodontic needs for you or your child. You will be taken on a tour of the new office and each patient will receive a thorough orthodontic examination by Dr. Neale. One of three outcomes will be determined:

• Treatment is recommended now
• Treatment is not recommended at all
• Treatment will be needed, but the timing of such will depend upon close monitoring of growth, tooth eruption, or other factors

We will review all findings in detail with you and discuss any questions or areas of concern you may have. If treatment is recommended, complimentary records will be taken to be used for a thorough evaluation of your smile and bite. These consist of digital photographs, orthodontic x-rays, and models of the teeth. Dr. Neale will then sit down to take the time to review your case in a high amount of detail before outlining your personalized treatment options during the following consultation visit. At the consultation visit, treatment plan and financing options are discussed and we will make sure you have all your questions answered.  Additionally, at this appointment, if your prefer, we will schedule enough clinical time for yo to get started with your treatment and payment plan.  We want to demonstrate our level of commitment to you, your smile, and your health by taking the time to give you all the important information needed prior to making the best decision for you and your family.

When is the best time to begin orthodontics?

Though an orthodontist can enhance a smile at any age, there is an optimal time period to begin treatment. Beginning treatment at this time ensures the greatest result and the least amount of time and expense. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that the initial orthodontic evaluation should occur at the first sign of orthodontic problems or no later than age 7. At this early age, orthodontic treatment may not be necessary, but vigilant examination can anticipate the most advantageous time to begin treatment.

What are the benefits of early orthodontic evaluation?

Early evaluation provides both timely detection of problems and greater opportunity for more effective treatment. Prudent intervention guides growth and development, preventing serious problems later. When orthodontic intervention is not necessary, an orthodontist can carefully monitor growth and development and begin treatment when it is ideal.

Why is age 7 considered the optimal time for screening?

By the age of 7, the first adult molars erupt, establishing the back bite. During this time, an orthodontist can evaluate front-to-back and side-to-side tooth relationships. For example, the presence of erupting incisors can indicate possible overbite, open bite, crowding or gummy smiles. Timely screening increases the chances for an incredible smile.

Are you a candidate for orthodontic treatment?

Orthodontics is not merely for improving the aesthetics of the smile; orthodontic treatment improves bad bites (malocclusions). Malocclusions occur as a result of tooth or jaw misalignment. Malocclusions affect the way you smile, chew, clean your teeth or feel about your smile.

Why should malocclusions be treated?

According to studies by the American Association of Orthodontists, untreated malocclusions can result in a variety of problems. Crowded teeth are more difficult to properly brush and floss, which may contribute to tooth decay and/or gum disease. Protruding teeth are more susceptible to accidental chipping. Crossbites can result in unfavorable growth and uneven tooth wear. Openbites can result in tongue-thrusting habits and speech impediments. Ultimately, orthodontics does more than make a pretty smile—it creates a healthier you.

Benefits of Early Treatment

For those patients who have clear indications for early orthodontic intervention, early treatment presents an opportunity to:

• guide the growth of the jaw
• regulate the width of the upper and lower dental arches (the arch-shaped jaw bone that supports the teeth)
• guide incoming permanent teeth into desirable positions
• lower risk of trauma (accidents) to protruding upper incisors (front teeth)
• correct harmful oral habits such as thumb- or finger-sucking
• reduce or eliminate abnormal swallowing or speech problems
• improve personal appearance and self-esteem
• potentially simplify and/or shorten treatment time for later corrective orthodontics
• reduce likelihood of impacted permanent teeth (teeth that should have come in, but have not)
• preserve or gain space for permanent teeth that are coming in

If you are not quite ready for treatment

If you are not ready for treatment we will coninue to monitor your growth and development.  These appointments are usually every 6 to 12 months to evaluate if and when you will be ready for orthodontic treatment.

Adolescent Treatment

If you are a pre-teen or teenager you have probably wondered if you are going to need braces. Modern orthodontic treatment performed by a trained and experienced orthodontic specialist can be a pleasant experience. These are not the painful, bulky braces your parents wore in the 1960’s or 1970’s! Today’s braces are more comfortable (Damon), can be nearly invisible,or completely clear (Invisalign). We are committed to helping you achieve the smile you deserve - a healthy, beautiful one that is truly remarkable!

Adult Treatment

Are you a candidate for orthodontic treatment?

Orthodontics is not merely for improving the aesthetics of the smile; orthodontic treatment improves bad bites (malocclusions). Malocclusions occur as a result of tooth misalignment or jaw discrepancies. Malocclusions affect the way you smile, chew, clean your teeth or feel about your smile.

Why should malocclusions be treated in adults?

Braces aren’t just for kids anymore. Tooth alignment can be changed at any age if your gums and bone structure are healthy. We offer a variety of treatments that are designed for different age groups - including adults. A new smile can begin today.

Numerous clinical research trials have demonstrated that untreated malocclusions can result in a variety of problems. Crowded teeth are more difficult to properly brush and floss, which may contribute to tooth decay and/or gum disease. Protruding teeth are more susceptible to accidental chipping. Crossbites can result in unfavorable growth and uneven tooth wear. Openbites can result in tongue-thrusting habits and speech impediments. Ultimately, orthodontic treatment does more than make a beautiful smile- it creates a healthier, better functioning bite.

Orthodontic treatment at later stages in life can dramatically improve your personal appearance and self-esteem. Improving the health of your teeth and gums is equally important. Crooked teeth and a bad bite can contribute to gum and bone loss, tooth decay, abnormal wear of tooth enamel surfaces, headaches, and jaw joint (TMJ/D) pain. Good news! The new techniques and appliances we use greatly reduce discomfort levels, decrease the frequency of visits, shorten treatment time, and may allow you to choose from several options. Your options may include metal braces, clear braces, or transparent aligners to improve mild cases of misaligned teeth.