Orthodontics As a specialist in Orthodontics, Dr. Wandera’s education and training allows her to adeptly accomplish the diagnosis, prevention, interception, and correction of malocclusion, or the misalignment of teeth. She is also skilled at identifying and treating neuromuscular and skeletal abnormalities of the developing and mature orofacial structures.Although the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that patients complete a preliminary checkup from an orthodontist no later than seven years of age, we often recognize orthodontic issues much earlier. Since we see our patients every six months from early childhood, our patients’ orthodontic needs are addressed immediately, increasing the chances of a quick, satisfactory solution. In our office, Dr. Wandera will take the time to thoroughly identify orthodontic problems in developing teeth and jaws and make recommendations for preventive measures and treatment. Regardless of the patient’s age, Dr. Wandera’s gentle approach will help them feel relaxed and understood. Early Orthodontic CareIn some cases, early orthodontic treatment leads to better long-term results for your child. This is partly because the younger a person is, the more pliable their bones are. We use this to our advantage. Dr. Wandera can achieve favorable results faster if your child’s bite receives early treatment, reducing or eliminating future braces. Habit Reversal Appliances & TreatmentJuvenile habits like thumb-sucking and tongue thrusting might seem innocuous when your child is very young, but if not corrected in a suitable fashion, they could end up causing problems for your child. Misalignment of your child’s teeth can lead to self-esteem issues over time. Dr. Wandera reverses these habits through a variety of orthodontic treatments, including habit reversal appliances. Upper Jaw & Palatal ExpandersIf your child’s upper jaw is narrow, there is limited space for normal tooth and jaw development. Early orthodontic treatment can create more space in your child’s mouth. Dr. Wandera uses upper jaw or palatal expanders to help make room in your child’s mouth for teeth that would be blocked out, impacted, or crooked. Taking into account your child’s specific needs, Dr. Wandera’s gentle orthodontic techniques limit discomfort and maximize results. Space MaintenanceIf your child has recently lost a baby (primary) tooth due to trauma, injury, or any other unexpected reason, they may need an orthodontic appliance known as a space maintainer. A space maintainer can help establish a strong foundation for your child’s oral health that follows them into adulthood. InvisalignInvisalign treatment involves a series of clear plastic aligner trays that are designed to move your teeth to their proper positions. It all begins with a consultation, during which we will be able to determine if you are a suitable candidate for Invisalign. The next step is treatment planning. Traditional BracesTraditional braces are perhaps the most common type of orthodontic treatment. At Dr. Angela Wandera & Associates, we specialize in traditional braces, as well as some other straightening appliances. If you or your child needs orthodontic treatment, we can help you determine which orthodontic appliance is most appropriate. Tooth Guidance & Space SupervisionSometimes teeth need help moving into the right spot in your child’s mouth. Tooth guidance procedures help prevent crooked or crowded teeth and simplify orthodontic treatment over time. Dr. Wandera can skillfully guide your child’s teeth into the correct space and position as their mouth and jaw develop. This can save them from months or years of further braces. Herbst Appliance TherapyIf your child struggles with an overbite and overjet, the Herbst orthodontic appliance guides the lower jaw forward to match upper jaw growth. The Herbst appliance helps align your child’s jaws into a functional and esthetically pleasing position. Overbite correction can positively influence your child’s physical growth and psychological development. Dr. Wandera will help you make the right decision for the timing and sequencing of your child’s orthodontic treatment. Adolescent CareMost orthodontic patients are adolescents, which can be a challenging time for some teenagers. As they become more aware of their physical appearance and character, Dr. Wandera uses corrective orthodontic treatment to influence their growth and build their confidence and self-esteem. Dr. Wandera offers complimentary evaluations for any patient considering braces. Impacted Cuspid TeethImpacted cuspid teeth are “eye teeth” that are lying flat, sideways, or otherwise in the wrong position. In addition to causing discomfort, these teeth can also cause damage to adjacent teeth and structures, poor esthetics, and low self-esteem. If not addressed early, impacted cuspid teeth can lead to long-term and serious problems. If your child has impacted cuspid teeth, Dr. Wandera will help address the problem as soon as possible to prevent negative effects on your child’s overall development. RetentionRetention is the final and most important phase of orthodontic treatment, with a goal of avoiding or minimizing any shifting of teeth after the completion of orthodontic treatment. Retention is a long-term and critical part of maintaining the results of the patient’s orthodontic treatment. Every patient is unique, which is why Dr. Wandera and her staff offer customized orthodontic treatments that will deliver results in a comfortable atmosphere. It is our goal to help our patients achieve a beautiful, confident smile. Contact our office today at 952-941-7393 to schedule an appointment. |
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