Orthodontics & ClearCorrect
In Merced, California, El Portal Dental Group has the latest orthodontic treatments designed to give you a more confident smile. We stay ahead of the trends and bring you the latest styles and most effective options when you need braces or an aligner or retainer. We have solutions for kids and adults alike.
We are your one-stop resource for orthodontics and dental care.
We frequently hear from patients that one of the things they love best about El Portal Dental Group is having both their dentist and their orthodontist in one place. We're your one-stop resource for family dentistry and orthodontic treatment. We can make visits convenient so that you can visit your dentist and then walk down the hallway to visit your orthodontist, saving you time.
Because dental hygiene is so important, regular visits to the family dentist must continue every six months during orthodontic treatment. It is essential that the patient avoid food that can damage orthodontic appliances. The patient must also maintain a healthy, nutritional diet to achieve the best possible results from treatment. A good diet provides essential nutrients to bones and tissues undergoing change during orthodontic treatment.
We want you to have the time to explore your options. Initial orthodontic consultations are provided free of charge. Call our office today at (209) 385-1479 to make an appointment. Learn more about orthodontic treatment below.
What Is Orthodontics?
The purpose of orthodontics is to treat any type of malocclusion, which is simply another way of saying “bad bite.” When you have a malocclusion, that means your teeth, lips, and/or jaws don’t line up the way they should. As a result, your teeth may be crooked, your bite may not work correctly, and your jaws may look unbalanced.
To fix bad bites, specially trained dentists called orthodontists use braces and other corrective procedures, including materials often called “appliances,” to achieve tooth and jaw alignment. This correction of the teeth and their supportive structures makes for a healthy, attractive smile.
When Should I See an Orthodontist?
Kids should see an orthodontist at age 7.
Modern orthodontics is much different than it was a decade or so ago. When most people think of orthodontics, they think of teenagers. And the fact is, most orthodontics treatment begins between the ages of 9 and 14. However, by age 7, most children have a mix of adult and baby teeth. Orthodontists can spot subtle problems with jaw growth and emerging teeth while some baby teeth are still present. That’s important, because some orthodontic problems are easier to correct if they’re found early.
For these reasons, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that your child get an orthodontic check-up no later than age 7. While your child’s teeth may appear to be straight, there could be a problem that only an orthodontist can detect. Of course, the check-up may reveal that your child’s bite is fine, and that can be comforting news.
Adult orthodontics: It's never too late to get started.
Are you an adult who's always wanted to change your smile? You can! Adult orthodontic treatment can be successful at almost any age. In fact, about one in every five orthodontic patients today is over age 18. Thanks to today’s smaller, less visible, more comfortable brackets, adults are finding braces more appealing. Many adults also choose ClearCorrect Invisible braces for a "clear alternative to braces". Healthy teeth, bones, and gums respond well to orthodontic treatment at almost any age. It’s never too late to get a healthy, beautiful smile.
To learn more about ClearCorrect, go to www.ClearCorrect.com
The Orthodontic Process: Four Steps to Straighter Teeth