3520 St. Johns Ave.
Palatka, FL 32177

459 W. Call St.
Starke, FL 32091

Chapman Orthodontics Palatka, FL 32177
386-328-8351

Chapman Orthodontics Starke, FL 32091
386-328-8351

Dental braces have come a long way since they were invented in the 1800’s. Today, Americans and residents of are privy to a bevy of tooth-straightening options, each of which offers different benefits. Currently, the most popular types of braces used in include:

Did you know…

that you do not have to have crooked teeth to benefit from braces? Even patients with a little bit of crowding can benefit from orthodontic treatment. When the teeth are properly aligned, patients can better clean between the teeth, preventing decay and gum disease. Furthermore, teeth that are optimally aligned can help remedy malocclusion complications, such as headaches.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need braces?

Only you and your dentist can determine whether braces are right for you. However, chances are you could benefit from treatment if your teeth are crooked, overlapping or protruding. Schedule an appointment with your dentist or orthodontist for more information.

What should I expect while I have braces?

You will have certain dietary restrictions with most types of braces except Invisalign. Some foods, such as hard, sticky and chewy foods, can have an adverse effect on braces and damage the brackets and wires. You will also need to make frequent office visits to have wires tightened. If you have Invisalign, there are no dietary restrictions, as the orthodontic trays are fully removable when eating. You’ll also be able to switch to a new Invisalign tray every few weeks without visiting your dentist.

What happens when my orthodontic treatment is complete?

When you have completed your treatment, you will have your braces removed and be given a retainer. The retainer must be worn at all times initially to help preserve the new placement of your teeth. As time progresses, you may be able to begin wearing your retainer only at night.

Invisalign® is an orthodontic appliance system used to inconspicuously treat crooked and crowded teeth in adults and teens. This modern take on braces features a system of clear aligner trays that are worn at all times with the exception of during meals and when brushing or flossing. The trays are custom fitted to the teeth, making them virtually unnoticeable when laughing, talking, and eating with other people. Patients receive a sequence of trays, each of which is slightly different than the one before. The aligners provide a slight resistance to the teeth, forcing them to move into alignment over time. With Invisalign®, adults and teens can achieve the smiles they’ve always wanted without feeling self-conscious about the mode of treatment.

Did you know…

wearing Invisalign® is in no way as restrictive as traditional braces? Many adults opt for this system not only because it is discreet, but also because there is no need to change your diet to avoid foods that could damage braces. This is because the Invisalign® system is free of braces and brackets, instead opting for a removable tray that can be taken out prior to meals. Also, Invisalign® fits well into busy adult schedules, as there is no need to attend frequent visits for wire tightening. Most patients simply change to a new aligner tray every couple of weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Am I a candidate for Invisalign®?

If you have crooked or crowded teeth that are embarrassing to you or otherwise preventing you from achieving optimal oral health, Invisalign® could be the solution for you. Visit your Invisalign® dentist for a complete consultation to find out if you could benefit from clear orthodontics.

What should I expect during my Invisalign® treatment?

You will wear your aligners nearly all of the time, with the exception of about two hours per day. Invisalign® treatments are different for everyone, but most patients can achieve their ideal smiles within one to two years. During that time, you can expect to make occasional dental visits to monitor your progress.

Will I need any post-treatment care?

Following your treatment, you will no longer need to wear Invisalign® trays. However, you will need to wear a retainer each day to help protect your new smile. It is also important to continue visiting your dentist for routine check-ups and twice-yearly cleaning.

The field of orthodontics spans beyond corrective treatments. It also includes preventive care, which is used to prevent the development of a bad bite or crooked and overcrowded teeth. In fact, some children who undergo preventive treatments can avoid the need for far more invasive treatments later in life. By the time preventive orthodontic treatments are complete, children have an adequate amount of jaw space for permanent teeth to erupt.

Did you know?

It is important that your child undergoes an orthodontic screening no later than age 7. Preventive care is only effective when used early – usually while the majority of primary teeth are still intact. Some of the most common preventive orthodontic treatments in include:

Frequently Asked Questions

Does my child need preventive orthodontic treatment?

Your child may need preventive care if he or she has malocclusion, inadequate jaw space, has teeth erupting in the wrong spaces, or has missing primary teeth lost due to decay or trauma. If you suspect that your child could need preventive orthodontic, schedule a consultation immediately.

What should I expect during preventive orthodontic treatment?

Preventive treatment varies from child to child. Some types of preventive appliances are fixed in your child’s mouth, and require multiple visits to ensure a perfect fit. If your child’s appliance is removable, you will be given instructions on how and when your child should wear the device. You can also expect to make occasional orthodontic visits for the duration of your child’s preventive treatment to measure progress and make adjustments as needed.

Will I need to follow any special instructions while my child is undergoing preventive treatment?

Yes. In addition to ensuring your child’s appliance is being worn correctly, you’ll need to also prevent your child from consuming foods that could damage the appliance while being worn. If your child’s appliance is removable, you’ll need to clean it regularly and store it according to your orthodontist’s instructions.

The process of placing an orthodontic appliance is non-surgical, but it does require special post-procedural instructions to minimize patient discomfort and protect each patient’s appliance from damage. Failure to follow these instructions can prolong treatment, make treatment more costly, or even result in a dental or orthodontic emergency.

Did you know…

that it is normal for orthodontic patients to experience some pain or discomfort following orthodontic treatment? Usually, soreness occurs in the muscles and teeth and can last for one to two days. During this time, many patients find difficulty eating – especially foods that are hard or crunchy. To relieve discomfort, it is recommended that patients temporarily consume a diet of soft foods or otherwise cut harder foods, like apples, into very small bites.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to follow my orthodontist’s post-op instructions?

Yes. Every directive is given for a reason, so it is imperative that you follow doctor’s recommendations between orthodontic appointments. Also, never leave your orthodontist’s office without the supplies necessary to facilitate post-op care. This may include acquiring orthodontic wax to protect your cheeks and gums from poking wires, or obtaining enough elastic bands and cleaning aids to last until your next orthodontic visit.

What types of post-op instructions will I need to follow?

Instructions vary from patient to patient and according to treatment. But if you have a fixed orthodontic appliance, you will probably have to follow special dietary guidelines to prevent damage to your braces or other orthodontic appliance. Most dietary restrictions include avoiding foods that are very hard or sticky, such as ice and chewy candies. If you do not have a fixed orthodontic appliance, your post-op instructions will include information about storing and cleansing your device.

Will my post-op instructions apply to every visit?

Possibly. There may be some visits where you are told to wear elastics or activate your expander until your next visit. It is important to never leave your orthodontist’s office until you have a thorough understanding of your responsibilities at home. Continue to use proper brushing and flossing techniques, visit your dentist for periodic cleanings and examinations, and contact your orthodontist’s office if you have any post-op questions.

Two-phase orthodontic treatment is a dual step method of aligning a child’s teeth and producing a functional bite. Usually, two-step orthodontic treatments begin between the ages of 7 and 9, when many of the primary teeth remain in a child’s mouth. The braces stay on for a year or two, after which time they are removed and replaced with a retainer. This resting phase lasts about 3 years, after which time children return to the orthodontist for the second phase of treatment. From start to finish, two phase orthodontics can take 5 years or more, but most orthodontists and parents believe the results are often worth the extended treatment time.

Did you know…

the American Association of Orthodontists endorses early childhood orthodontic treatments? The Association recommends an initial screening for every child no later than age 7. Because children this age have achieved approximately 80 percent of their total facial growth, a first phase of treatment during this time period can leverage remaining growth. By the time they reach age 11 or 12 (when the second phase of treatment is initiated), children have achieved more than 90 percent of their lifetime facial growth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does my child need two-phase orthodontic treatment?

The only way to know if your child needs orthodontic treatment of any kind is by visiting an orthodontist. Children as young as 4 can be screened, although the AAO recommends waiting no longer than age 7. If your child is over age 7 and has not yet been screened, make an appointment for a consultation at your earliest convenience.

What should I expect during a two-phase treatment?

Between the first and second treatment phases, you’ll need to bring your child to the orthodontist periodically to monitor progress and check the condition of your child’s retainer. He or she may also need occasional x-rays to ensure everything is progressing smoothly and as planned. Once your child has lost his or her final primary tooth, you’ll return yet again to get the second set of braces – usually around the age of 12.

Will I need to follow any special care instructions while my child is undergoing two-step orthodontic treatment?

Yes. Orthodontic appliances are designed for durability but can easily break when not cared for. You’ll need to ensure your child is following all directions for brushing around the braces and also exclude hard candies or foods that could damage the appliance components.

An orthodontist is a dentist who specializes in the treatment of crooked or misaligned teeth. Contrary to popular belief, this branch of dentistry is not merely about the cosmetic appearance of patient smiles, but also about their oral health. Patients who visit an orthodontist for treatment often find it easier to brush their teeth and floss. This significantly reduces the risk of developing tooth decay or periodontal disease. Some of the conditions orthodontists treat include:

Did you know…

that orthodontists are dentists who have spent an additional 2 or 3 years in specialty training following dental school? Dentists perform a broad range of work, with occasional orthodontic treatments. Orthodontists, on the other hand, only see orthodontic patients. So even if your family dentist offers to straighten your teeth, keep in mind that only an orthodontist has the type of specialized training that ensures functional and aesthetic results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to visit an orthodontist?

You only need to visit an orthodontist if one or more of your teeth are improperly aligned. Keep in mind that it is never too late to see an orthodontist – whether child or adult.

What should I expect during an orthodontic visit?

Your orthodontist will conduct an exam and use diagnostic imaging technology to determine the health of your tooth structure and whether orthodontic treatment is right for you. Orthodontic treatments usually involve the use of appliances like braces, space maintainers or jaw repositioning devices.

Will I need to follow any special instructions after meeting with an orthodontist?

Depending on the results of your visit, you may be asked to return for additional exams or follow-up visits in the future.

Orthodontic emergencies can occur at any time during treatment and often pertain to complications with appliances. An orthodontic emergency is any circumstance that causes pain, threatens a patient’s health, or interferes with the course of orthodontic treatment. An emergency orthodontist can offer immediate assistance for emergencies, some of which include:

Did you know?

Never attempt to handle an orthodontic or dental emergency on your own. If you suffer a trauma or injury to your teeth or notice that your gums have become infected or swollen, your emergency will be better served by your family dentist. Keep in mind that some emergencies are serious and require emergency medical attention. If, for example, you or your child has swallowed part of an orthodontic appliance, dial 9-1-1 or go straight to your nearest hospital emergency department.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do I do in an orthodontic emergency?

If you feel that you are experiencing a minor emergency related to your orthodontic appliance, contact your orthodontist’s office to find out when you can schedule an emergency visit. While you wait, your orthodontist may recommend temporary solutions to your emergency, such as placing wax on the end of a broken wire that is poking your gums or cheeks.

What should I expect during an emergency visit to the orthodontist?

During your visit, your orthodontist will repair or replace broken appliances. Keep in mind that broken appliances can prolong your orthodontic treatment, so speak with your orthodontist about how your emergency may affect your treatment.

How can I prevent orthodontic emergencies in the future?

Be sure to follow the instructions provided to you for caring for your orthodontic appliance. This may include avoiding hard or chewy foods like ice and caramel candies, and being sure to wear mouth guards to protect fixed appliances during high-impact activity. You should also avoid ‘playing’ with or picking at your appliances, as this can cause damage. And as always, you should continue to see your family dentist for routine cleanings and periodic check-ups throughout your course of orthodontic treatment.

The majority of patients undergoing orthodontic care are children and teens. When kids are young, their jaws are constantly growing to accommodate new teeth. It is during this time that the teeth are easily moved, allowing for a shorter treatment time – especially in patients who undergo early treatment. Braces, retainers, and spacers are just some of the orthodontic appliances commonly used in children’s orthodontics. Although not all kids need orthodontic treatment, all kids need exams at an early age. Some signs that a child may eventually require orthodontic treatment include:

Did you know?

that children should have their first orthodontic screening no later than age 7? This orthodontic evaluation is used to identify jaw irregularities and developmental complications that could indicate the need for orthodontic treatment in the future. Early screenings make it possible to get early treatment, with some children beginning progressive orthodontic treatments as early as age 7.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to bring my child to an orthodontist?

If your child is at least 7 years old or is exhibiting any of the symptoms listed above, you should schedule an appointment as soon as possible. Your child’s orthodontist can take steps to correct a bad bite, fill in gaps, and straighten the teeth all before your child reaches the teen years.

What should I expect at my child’s first orthodontist appointment?

Your child’s first orthodontic screening will include a visual examination as well as maxillofacial x-rays. Your child’s orthodontist may also ask you questions about your child’s habits, such as thumb and finger-sucking. Based on the results of this analysis, the orthodontist will discuss options and timeframes for treatment if applicable.

Will I need to follow any special instructions if my child is fitted for a dental appliance?

Yes. If your child is fitted for a fixed orthodontic appliance, such as braces, you will need to follow careful instructions to ensure the device is not damaged or broken. This includes monitoring your child’s diet to ensure it does not include hard foods, candies, popcorn kernels, or anything else that could cause damage. You’ll also need to ensure your child properly brushings and flosses around the appliance to protect the teeth from decay during treatment.

Orthodontists primarily treat patients who need help correcting certain maxillofacial problems, such as misaligned teeth, malocclusion, or too much space between the teeth. Treating these conditions requires the assistance of orthodontic appliances, of which there are many. Orthodontic appliances come in many variations – some being fixed and some being removable. They serve various purposes, from active treatment to maintenance. Some of the most commonly used orthodontic appliances include:

Did you know?

that braces are the most commonly used fixed orthodontic appliances in the U.S.? Invented in the early 1800s, these devices have since become widely popular. At any given time, at least 4 million people in the U.S. are undergoing orthodontic treatment. The majority of them are children and teens, although the U.S. has seen a sharp increase in adult orthodontics over the past few decades.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to see an orthodontist to get an appliance?

You or your child will only need an appliance if an orthodontist recommends one based on a diagnostic evaluation. Schedule a consultation with your orthodontist to find out more about appliances and whether they can help you achieve your cosmetic and health goals.

What should I expect when I am fit for an appliance?

If your orthodontist determines that you are a candidate for an oral appliance, you’ll be brought in for a custom fitting. Fixed appliances, such as braces, are applied in the office. Others, such as retainers, are fabricated in a dental lab after your orthodontist takes an impression of your mouth.

Will I need to follow any special instructions in caring for my orthodontic appliance?

Yes, and you will receive those instructions before leaving your orthodontist’s office. Removable appliances must be worn according to your orthodontist’s instructions and also properly cleaned and stored when not in use. Fixed appliances require dietary changes to protect them from becoming a damaged and prolonging treatment.

Everyone deserves a smile they can be proud of, and many achieve straightened, well-aligned teeth after undergoing orthodontic treatment as a child. But for adults who do not have the privilege of having straight teeth, orthodontics are still an option. In fact, there is no such thing as being too old for orthodontic treatment. More adults than ever are seeking straighter teeth – perhaps due to advancements in modern dentistry that allow for more discreet and less invasive orthodontic treatments. And braces aren’t becoming popular for cosmetic reasons alone. Rather, many adults are realizing the long-term oral health benefits associated with having straighter teeth.

Did you know?

There are many myths surrounding braces and adult orthodontics:

Frequently Asked Questions

Am I a candidate for adult orthodontics?

You may be a candidate for adult orthodontics if your teeth are crowded, overlapping, crooked, or have gaps between them. To find out more about your treatment options, schedule a consultation with your orthodontist.

What should I expect during adult orthodontic treatment?

During your orthodontic screening, you will undergo an examination and digital imaging to determine the position of your teeth and bite. Your orthodontist will map out a treatment plan designed to give you the straightest teeth possible in the least amount of time. Depending on the type of braces you choose – traditional or removable – you’ll be fitted for your appliance and given instructions on how frequently to return for follow-up appointments.

Will I need to follow any special instructions while I have my braces?

Yes. If you are wearing clear aligners, you’ll need to change out your trays every few days or weeks. You’ll also be instructed to wear your aligners at all times, with the exception of during meals and while brushing your teeth. If you have traditional metal or ceramic braces, you may be given special instructions to avoid biting down on hard or chewy foods, such as popcorn kernels, ice and taffy.