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When should my child see an orthodontist?
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Every person is a little different. However, it is recommended
by the American Association of Orthodontists that about
age 7 is an appropriate time for a child's first evaluation
by an orthodontic specialist. If you or your general dentist
suspect an orthodontic problem before age 7, an orthodontic
specialist should be contacted for an earlier evaluation.
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Does my child need to see an orthodontist?
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The following are indications that an orthodontic problem
may be present:
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Unusual facial profile
- Thumb
and finger sucking
- Overlapped
and crowded teeth
- Missing
teeth
- Under
bite
- Protrusion
of upper front teeth
- Mouth
breathing
These orthodontic problems tend to show up at around
age 7.
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How will my child benefit from straight teeth?
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Properly positioned teeth are much easier to care for
and clean. Correction of the bite helps not only with
improved chewing and speech, but plays an important role
in reduction of wear of the teeth and stress on the supporting
bone and jaw joints. Orthodontic care can also improve
the self-image of the patient. |
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I see quite a few adults with braces. Is this a growing
trend? |
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About 40% of our patients are adults. Age is not a factor
in orthodontic care. This trend is expected to continue
as adults become increasingly aware of the benefits of
modern orthodontic therapy. We offer different types of
invisible braces for esthetics. |
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Many orthodontic problems are quite complex, involving
the growth patterns of facial bones and soft tissue facial
profiles as well as malaligned teeth. Treatment of such
problems requires the care of an orthodontist with lengthy
specialty training. |
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What are Dr. Noguchi's qualifications? |
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Dr. Noguchi completed two full years of specialty training
in orthodontics at Loma Linda University School of Dentistry
in 1988, above and beyond four years of dental training.
He is an active member of local and national dental associations. |
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What will happen on my first visit to your office?
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At your first appointment, a thorough and complete orthodontic
examination will be performed at no cost to you. This
will include an analysis of facial and skeletal type,
assessment of facial growth, examination of the bite,
alignment of the teeth, health of the soft tissues, function
of the temporomandibular joints and adjacent supporting
structures. If treatment is necessary, a complete set
of orthodontic records maybe be taken. |
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What are orthodontic records? |
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Orthodontic records usually include x-rays, photographs
of the teeth and face, and models of the teeth. The computerize
analysis of diagnostic records enable us to develop the
appropriate treatment plan to correct your individual
orthodontic problem. Next, you will be scheduled for a
consultation appointment to discuss treatment plans and
financial options. |
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Is orthodontic care expensive? |
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Orthodontic care often eliminates the need for other dental
and medical treatment, thus reducing future health care
costs. Considering that the benefits of orthodontic care
can last a lifetime, the cost is quite modest.
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When will my appointments be scheduled? |
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We know that your time is important, and we try to minimize
time missed from work or school by offering evening hours.
During the course of treatment, should an appointment
occur during school hours, an excuse card will be given
to the patient or parent. |
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What can we expect from your practice? |
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You can expect a unique blend of art, science and experience
with a personal touch. When you come in to our office,
you will meet special group of people, who are totally
dedicated to the care for you and your children's orthodontic
needs.
Call us now to set up a complimentary
examination and experience the difference! |
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