Southwest Dental has a wide range of treatment options

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Orthodontics; the First Specialty in Dentistry
By Kamal Al-Fakiani DDS, MS

Dental professionals realized over a hundred years ago the importance of well aligned teeth for esthetics, function, and better hygiene. Today with the ever developing cutting  edge technology, Orthodontics is providing a wide range of techniques and treatment modalities addressing the wide range of treatment options.

The American Association of Orthodontics recommends that all children at the age of seven should be screened by an orthodontist for the purpose of early diagnosis of potential complicated conditions that might affect the over all growth pattern of the facial complex, as well as the eruption pattern of permanent teeth. The correction of some skeletal conditions is easier at this stage of development and prevents more involved procedures in the future. Some simple appliances to help maintain space or break habits are common at this stage.

Full orthodontic treatment is usually initiated when all permanent teeth or most of them have erupted. Treatment aims to perfect the occlusion to achieve a functional bite which prevents dental and soft tissue trauma and protects the tempromandibular joint function.

Badly positioned teeth prevent proper cleaning and might increase incidents of dental cavities and gingival inflammation. Having an esthetic and beautiful smile is an important part of any orthodontic treatment. It was proven to have an effect on children's self esteemgrowing up, and it affects the perception of other people of the individual.

Many types of brackets are available, with self ligation brackets to reduce friction and clear brackets to improve esthetics. Clear aligners' technology (Invisalign) has a clear advantage for adult and teen patients. The esthetics are great and the results are excellent.

Many adults are seeking orthodontic treatment nowadays, whether to get perfect smiles with full orthodontic treatment or in conjunction with other dental treatments to prepare for implants or veneers. The use of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) and mini orthodontic implants enable the orthodontist to explore more treatment options to provide to patients.

Dr. Kamal Al-Fakiani is an Orthodontist at Southwest Dental Group's Tempe Orthodontic location. To schedule a complimentary consultation, please call 602-926-0060 or visit www.swdentalgroup.com

Southwest Dental is a sponsor of Sonoran Living Live