Orthodontics

Ninety percent of all people who need orthodontic treatment have crowded or protruding teeth. You or your child may be in this population segment and ready to make an important decision about your orthodontic treatment.

For many years the traditional method of treating crowded and protruding teeth has included removal of premolar, or bicuspid, teeth. However a new and superior methods of treating crowded and protruding teeth, based on careful research and analysis, have been adopted by a growing number of dentists in Europe and North America.

These advances now allow us to help you improve your appearance and health in much less time and with amazing comfort.

We can also assist children earlier with interoceptive orthodontic treatment (Functional Jaw Orthopedics - FJO) prior to the entry of crooked teeth which can save families thousands of dollars. This approach treats teeth and jaws starting at birth to manage growth, development and deformation. With this method various modern dental techniques are used in one or more phases of treatment to give patients beautiful healthy smiles.

There are numerous biocompatible dental appliances available to us that incorporate today's latest technologies.

Our office also utilizes the latest in self-ligating brace systems and other proven appliance therapies that dramatically minimize the need for extractions.

One of the most effective brace systems used today is the Damon System self-ligating braces.

The Damon System

System features

1.

The Damon System now has newly designed hooks for easy elastic ligation and superior patient comfort.

2.

Slide opens allows clear visibility into the slot during placement and when engaging the archwire prior to closing the slide.

3.

New precision MIM slide with enhanced leading edge makes opening and closing easier with more-consistent opening and closing forces.

4.

New rounded contours are equal to conventional bracket radii, ensuring greater patient comfort.

5.

Anatomically correct pad contours are designed to fit the facial surface of the tooth providing provide exceptional pad-to-tooth fit for easier placement and fewer bond failures.

6.

Slide is designed to fully capture the archwire in the slot. When the slide is closed, it forms a tube that provides superior torque and rotational control.

Traditional braces utilize elastic ligatures that create friction requiring more force and more frequent adjustments. The conventional ties used in these elastic ligatures make using optimal forces impossible due to friction and binding. Elastomeric O-rings will lose half their elasticity within days of initial tie in, thus compromising tooth control. O-rings are extremely plaque retentive and greatly increase the number of microorganisms attached to appliances during treatment, increasing the incidence of decalcification during treatment.

The Damon System utilizes a self-ligating process that minimizes friction and allows freedom of movement. This results in faster results with gentler forces. See the results of using the Damon system on the right.

Appliance Comparisons

Traditional Brace Appliances
The Damon 2 System Brace Appliance

By utilizing this innovative self-ligating brace system more effective results are achieved in a shorter period of time. You also benefit from simplified procedures, fewer appointments and greater comfort during the treatment process.

Due to the unique design we can move your teeth into their correct position without much of the discomfort experienced with traditional braces. The Damon System self-ligating braces are also smaller and easier to keep clean and can be equally effective for both children and adults.

There are many other options to consider regarding dental appliance applications. One of our dentists will be happy to discuss the various other factors that should be considered in your decision.

Here is your information.  Please call if I can be of further assistance.

Image Examples

Damon Appliance - Initial Application

Individual before application of the Damon appliance.
Damon appliance at intial application

Damon Appliance at completion of treatment - 18 weeks.

Individual after treatment process using the Damon appliance - Required 18 weeks.
Damon Appliance at completion of treatment - 14 weeks.

Identifying Names of Teeth

Identifying Names of Teeth.  Click here for a larger printable image.
Click here for large printable image

Other Relevant Links

- Amalgam Filling Removals
- Bite Adjustments
- Conscious Sedation for Dental Fears
- Cosmetic Enhancements
- Headache Relief
- Orthodontics
- Reflex Testing (Muscle Kinesiology)
- Nutritional Evaluation & Counseling
- Structural Evaluation & Treatment
- TMJ Diagnosis & Treatment
- Toxicity Evaluation & Detoxification Programs
- Terminology & Definitions

DeFelice Holistic Family Dentistry

Link to Dr. Armand V. DeFelice DDS
Email address for general inquiries

© Copyright 2003 - 2010, DeFelice Holistic Family Dentistry
4703 N. Maple · Spokane, WA 99205 USA · Office: (509) 327-7719 · Fax: (509) 327-7110
Internet: www.drdefelice.com