WHAT DOES BOARD CERTIFIED ORTHODONTIST MEAN? 

An orthodontist is a specialist of dentistry.  Every orthodontist is a dentist that goes on to additional training to become an orthodontist.  Some programs are an additional 2 or 3 years depending on the orthodontic program.  When a dentist graduates from these programs, they become an orthodontic specialist that only practices orthodontics and no other forms of dentistry.  A board certified orthodontist is an orthodontist that pursues certification by the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO).  This certification process is a demonstration of the orthodontist’s pursuit of continued proficiency and excellence in the field of orthodontics. 

The certification process involves a thorough written examination covering a wide range of topics in orthodontics including growth and development to occlusion.  Upon successful passage of the written examination, the orthodontist must present 6 cases of treated patients in front of expert examiners of the board during the clinical examination.  During this process, the orthodontist’s treatment, rationale, problem solving ability and results are tested and graded.  Once successful passage of the written and clinical portions of the American Board exam, the orthodontist becomes a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics and is awarded with the prestigious title as a board certified orthodontist. 

Dr. Aaron Havens is a board certified orthodontist specializing in orthodontics for children and adults. Dr. Havens received his undergraduate degree from The University of Michigan and graduated magna cum laude from Harvard University receiving his Doctor of Medical Dentistry .  He returned to the University of Michigan to complete his orthodontic training and received his Master of Science in Orthodontics.  Upon graduation, he went on to be credited by the American Board of Orthodontics to be a board certified orthodontist.

 

ABO website – www.americanboardortho.com

ELASTIC COMPLIANCE DURING ORTHODONTICS

Almost every patient at some point during comprehensive orthodontics will be asked to wear elastics.  Elastics are tiny rubber bands that attach to the braces around small hooks.  The purpose of the elastics is to align the bite and improve the fit of the teeth.  The braces straighten the teeth in the upper and lower jaws, but the elastics are needed to coordinate the bite.  By wearing elastics exactly as directed, you will speed towards the finish line and obtain the beautiful smile and great bite you are seeking.  On the flip side, poor compliance with elastics is one of the most common reasons for delayed treatment completion!  

While we understand that wearing elastics isn’t the most exciting part of treatment, it is a very important and necessary evil.  Wearing the elastics as instructed is a sure way to keep your treatment on track.   If you ever run out of elastics before your next appointment, please give us a call.  We will mail you another pack to ensure that you are always stocked up to help you get that beautiful smile as soon as possible! 

"I'm too old for braces"

Dr. Havens specializes in orthodontic care for children and adults.  He has experience treating patients from 5 years old to patients in their 70’s.  Dr. Havens individualizes his treatment plans for each patient, so he is experienced in not only managing tooth and jaw discrepancies in growing children but also helping adults who have always wanted a smile enhancement.  He also frequently works with many great dentists to coordinate spacing and alignment for future implants, crowns, bridges, veneers and other restorative needs.

Lingual Braces

The desire for straighter teeth does not always involve “full braces.”  Depending on the esthetic and functional goals of each patient, treatment may only last a few months and you may not even need braces to correct your teeth.  There are many options that may be a great fit for your wishes and lifestyle.  

“….but I don’t want metal braces.”  Don’t worry; there are many options for treatment without metal braces.  Using the most advanced technology, Dr. Havens offers many different esthetic choices for those who want straight teeth but want to “hide” the process.  A few of the options include clear (esthetic) braces, Invisalign®, lingual braces (hidden on the inside of the teeth), or a series of retainer options for limited treatment.  If you are interested in learning more, please do not hesitate to call for a no-obligation consultation to discuss your options.  Who knows, the smile you have always wanted may be easier to get than you thought!

At What Age Should My Child Visit the Orthodontist?

A common myth we often hear is that your child does not need to see an orthodontist until all of their permanent teeth are present in the mouth.   However, by the time all of the permanent teeth have come in, your child is more mature in growth and may have missed a narrow window to correct jaw growth problems, bite problems and dental abnormalities.  By waiting, an orthodontist may have fewer options to correct problems such as crowding, narrow bite, and growth problems, to mention a few.  The older the child the harder it may be to correct the given problem. 

Our Advice:  Do not let the appearance of straight teeth fool you; there may be hidden issues that you do not see. 

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children see an orthodontist by age 7.  Not all children need treatment at this age.  In fact, only about 20-30% of patients will be treated early.  However, there may be underlying issues that only an orthodontist is trained to see.  A few reasons for early or interceptive orthodontic treatment include:

·         Maintaining space for baby teeth that were lost early in order to limit overlapping of permanent teeth.

·         To create space for the proper eruption of the permanent teeth and potentially eliminating the need for removal of permanent teeth.

·         Jaw growth discrepancies can be monitored and addressed  at the appropriate age time to accomplish the best results.

·         Expanding the upper jaw to correct bite problems.

·         Tooth abnormalities ( i.e. missing teeth) can be caught early and addressed in the most efficient manner.

·         Teeth that are more prone to injury, especially the upper front teeth, can be recognized.

If an interceptive phase of orthodontics is not needed, your child will be placed on growth observation to monitor his or her skeletal growth and dental development throughout the years.  If orthodontics is needed in the future, it can be started at the appropriate time. 

If you have any questions, please give us a call and we would be happy to answer any of your questions.  Thanks!