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Modern Orthodontics Wipes Away Years

Given today's emphasis on anti-aging in a society where the life expectancy has drastically increased, many adults are seeking ways of improving their appearance. Orthodontics is clearly one of the answers to not only improving one's smile and tooth alignment, but also decreasing facial wrinkles and lines to give the face a more youthful appearance. Orthodontic treatment can dramatically improve one's self esteem by aligning the teeth and correcting a bad bite that might otherwise contribute to gum and bone loss, tooth decay, abnormal wear of tooth enamel, headaches and jaw pain (TMJ/TMD).

With all of the technological advancements in orthodontics, straightening teeth has never been easier or filled with more options. State of the art appliances and treatments are now available. These include new and improved traditional metal braces, clear and tooth colored brackets, clear plastic aligners such as Invisalign, and even heat activated wires that require fewer adjustments. These treatment options move teeth quickly and comfortably with less visibility.

Beyond the aesthetic benefits of straightening crowded or crooked teeth, the dental arches can be expanded to fill out lines and wrinkles. Like all other parts of the body that change with age, the teeth in the front part of the mouth often crowd, which contributes to lines and wrinkles that form around the mouth. Expanding the dental arches can decrease the soft tissue changes that are associated with the aging face. This so called "brace lift" can have dramatic results for many patients. Orthodontic treatment may also improve oral function and facilitate greater longevity of the natural teeth. Poorly aligned teeth are more susceptible to trauma and, if crowded, can trap food particles that increase the incidence of tooth decay and bone disease. They also lead to poor chewing and digestion which can ultimately affect overall general health.

Where orthodontic treatment of the past lasted anywhere from 2 to 4 years, today's typical adult treatment time has decreased significantly. For correcting minor tooth discrepancies, treatment time may complete in as little as 6 months. For the moderate to severe corrections, treatment time may range anywhere from 10 to 18 months. With all the new technological advancements in today's orthodontic brackets and heat activated wires, the results are quicker and more tolerable.

A new smile can be created at any time in life. The benefits include improved self-esteem and self-confidence in addition to improved function of the jaw and increased longevity of the life and health of teeth. The new techniques and appliances that are available today greatly reduce discomfort levels, decrease the frequency of adjustment visits, shorten overall treatment time and often allow the patient a variety of treatment options. Orthodontic treatment can create beautiful smiles and more youthful appearances. There is no better time to make positive corrections to the teeth than today!

For more information on the anti-aging effects of cosmetic dentistry, contact Dr Janet Stoess-Allen of Park Avenue Orthodontics. Dr. Stoess-Allen has been helping patients smile with more confidence for over 17 years. Her Park Avenue practice prides itself on combining state-of-the-art technology with a friendly and caring environment where patients can receive individual attention and care.

Dr Stoess-Allen is a graduate of the University of Kentucky with an honors Bachelor of Science degree in Dental Hygiene. She practiced Dental Hygiene for 5 years and then attended University of Louisville Dental School. She went on to specialize in a 2 year orthodontic residency program at New York University.

Dr. Stoess-Allen is currently a member of the American Association of Orthodontics, the Northeast Society of Orthodontics, the American Dental Association, the New York Dental Society, the Women's Academy of Dentistry and ICCMO.