La Crescenta Dentist provides braces for Your Child

Of course, you want your child's teeth to look their best. If they don't, he or she may feel self-conscious. Poorly arranged teeth can break easily and can trap food particles that cause tooth decay, gum disease and jaw problems. That's where La Crescenta Dentist can help.

Modern advances in orthodontics have made braces less noticeable and a more desirable alternative for improving the appearance of your teeth. Braces help create straighter teeth, a proper bite, and a great smile! What about braces for adults?

When should my child's treatment start?

Early treatment can simplify later treatment. The American Association of Orthodontics recommends that children should be evaluated at age 8. Although only a few of the patients need treatment at this time, it can often improve improper growth and prevent future problems. For some of these problems, early intervention is essential for a good result. See pictures below

What patients are saying...

"Before I went to Dr. Thein, my teeth were all over the place. I had a narrow upper and lower jaw and an overbite. Also, my top right canine tooth was way high. I had braces for four years; (two years, a one year break and then another two years.) Because I got the braces done at a very early age, I was done by my freshman year in high school. I was finished with braces and had an excellent smile when all my friends were just getting their braces on."

- Tom E. Strawn, La Crescenta

"At first, I was very concerned about putting my only son through braces. Dr. Thein, however, answered all the questions we sent his way. He told us of a method of fitting our son with braces without having to pull any teeth! Not only was he successful in doing so, but he managed to have my son in and out of braces before most kids his age. My son's smile made him even more handsome than ever! "

- Lisa A. Strawn, La Crescenta

"I have been very happy with the results of my son's orthodontia. I was impressed with the quality of the workmanship and materials. They held up well under circumstances that were sometimes harsh.

As a pre-teen boy, his dental care has not been particularly thorough. But, you continued to explain the consequences of his actions and encourage him to do better. Your gentle treatment created a positive experience for him. At an age when he ignores advice from his parents, your influence was critical to his success.

Thanks for his beautiful smile! "

- Laura Kellgreen

What Are the Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment?

"The benefits of orthodontics can last a lifetime." - La Crescenta Dentist

• A nicer smile!
• Better looks and more self-confidence.
• Less likeliness of tooth decay,
  gum disease or jaw problems.
• Teeth will be less likely to chip or break.
• A better ability to chew.

Why start early?

Early treatment will help permanent teeth grow into the right place and the jaws to fit together well. By starting early, you've given your child the best chance for the best results.

Why Does My Child Need This Treatment?

Either genetics or environmental factors may have influenced the development of your child's jaws and muscles. For example, your child might have inherited a small jaw from one parent and large teeth from the other. Or, your child might suck his or her thumb or have a sleeping pattern that has affected how the cheeks and jaws have developed.

What's Involved in Treatment?

Early treatment may last a year or longer. Your child may wear some braces during this time, but they will be used mainly as an anchor for other appliances that will influence the growth of bone and muscle. In most cases, a second phase of orthodontic treatment (full braces) is also necessary. This phase is usually started after all the permanent teeth have appeared. It helps move the teeth into their final positions.

How do I start my child's treatment with La Crescenta Dentist?

During the first visit. We will examine your child's face, jaw and teeth. We can then tell you whether your child needs treatment and what type of treatment will be involved. If you decide to go ahead with your child's treatment, we will ask you to take orthodontic x-rays, molds and photos of your child's face and teeth.

La Crescenta Dentist's Treatment Schedule

After we have studied your child's orthodontic problem, we will explain your child's bite problem. You will be told when treatment should begin, how long it will take, and the kinds of appliances your child will wear. New techniques make treatment faster and more comfortable than ever before.

What about cost?

The cost of Orthodontic treatment varies from individual to individual and are based on different conditions. After your first examination, we'll accurately assess your dental healthand can better answer your questions. We understand your concerns. Many patients in our office have the same concerns.

Recently we finished one of our patient's implant care. His name is Tom and he is a retired railroad worker on a fixed income that hated the dark spaces between his teeth. We tailored his treatment plan to fit within his budget. Now he is enjoying his new smile. We can do the same thing for you.

Do You Have a Payment Plan?

Orthodontic treatment is an investment in your child's future. Your dental insurance plan may help pay some of the costs. We will make payment arrangement to fit your budget.

La Crescenta Dentist provides Adult Orthodontics

La Crescenta Dentist, am I too old for braces?

No. Orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age, and adults especially appreciate the benefits of a beautiful smile. Adults are finding out that braces aren't just for children anymore.

What is Invisalign®?

Invisalign® uses a series of clear removable and comfortable aligners to straighten your teeth without metal wires or brackets. Invisalign® is very effective and no one can tell you're wearing them. That way you can smile more during treatment as well as after! Dr. Thein is certified to treat patients with Invisalign®.

Will braces only straighten my teeth, or will they also improve my bite?

Both. Many adults are turning to braces to correct problems with their bite and straighten teeth, recognizing the benefits of reduced wear, reduced incidence of TMJ problems and increased self-esteem.

Do many adults get braces?

Many patients in our practice are adults and the numbers are growing. Adults are often hesitant at first, but after the braces are in they find it is not as difficult as they expected. They also discover that braces have no effect on how others perceive them.

What about cost?

The cost of Orthodontic treatment varies from individual to individual and are based on different conditions. After your first examination, we'll accurately assess your dental healthand can better answer your questions. We understand your concerns. Many patients in our office have the same concerns.

Recently we finished one of our patient's orthodontic treatments. He is very happy with the results and enjoying his new smile. We can do the same thing for you. See his before and after pictures below.

Call La Crescenta Dentist for an appointment

818.248.1991

Patient had an ordontoma (extra tooth) which was blocking the Canine and lateral tooth from eruption. Dr. Thein did a periodontal surgery to remove the extra tooth and erupted the teeth with a chain.