Orthodontist Dana Point, CA

An Orthodontist is Different from a Dentist Orthodontists and dentists share many similarities, but they actually work in very different and distinct ways. Dentists cover a wide range of oral health issues. An orthodontist is a dental specialist who focuses on straightening teeth and fixing abnormal bite patterns. All orthodontists are dentists, but not all dentists are orthodontists. There are several key differences between orthodontists and dentists. Dentists:

Complete a 4-year postgraduate dental degree, attaining a general dental degree.
Are general practitioners who diagnose and treat problems with the mouth, gums, and teeth.
Apply general dental care and maintenance for people of all ages.
May perform cosmetic dental procedures such as veneers, crowns, and tooth whitening.
Are not trained in orthodontic protocols and generally refer patients needing that type of treatment to an orthodontist.

Orthodontists:

Complete an additional three years to five years of training after attaining a dental degree.
Post-dental school studies focus on biology, facial growth and development, and biomechanics of the jaw and oral cavity.
Apply orthodontic protocols which diagnose and treat crooked teeth, improper bites, and misaligned jaws.
Are trained in orthodontic treatments and technologies for children, teens, and adults.

General dentists and orthodontists often collaborate to produce the optimal outcome for the patient.

An Early Childhood Orthodontic Assessment is Recommended

A rule of thumb is that a child should have an orthodontic evaluation by the age of 7. The orthodontic professional will assess problems with teeth spacing, bite abnormalities, and jaw issues. An orthodontist can also identify developing problems that result from the loss of baby teeth and the eruption of permanent teeth. Many conditions are much more easily treated if caught in the early stages of a child’s natural growth processes. Sometimes, severe dental challenges that might require extreme measures, such as oral surgery, can be averted through early intervention Furthermore, there’s a quite a bit of diversity in tooth development at the age of seven. An orthodontist can accurately identify if a child has or is developing an orthodontic problem. These are issues that a general dentist may not have the specialized training to recognize.

An Orthodontist and a Dentist Working Together Can Optimize Results

Regular dental check-ups and cleaning should continue throughout orthodontic treatment. Treatments that strive for maintaining good oral health should remain a priority. A referral from a dentist is not required for you to be seen by an orthodontist. But if you have a reliable family orthodontist in San Clemente, CA, you may want to ask about a referral to an orthodontist with whom they have a good working relationship. If you need another reliable resource–check with the American Association Of Orthodontists.

When Braces With a Are Necessary, Turn To An Orthodontist Dana Point, CA Families Trust

An orthodontist Dana Point, CA residents relies on understands that whether or not a child absolutely needs to have braces is often a matter of choice on behalf of the parents. However, necessity can be defined in several ways, and it is often a subjective determination. In fact, it is for this reason that we encourage our young patients and their parents to meet with our orthodontist prior to making the decision whether or not to move forward with orthodontic solutions. After a comprehensive dental exam, our orthodontist in Dana Point, CA at John Redmond Orthodontics can provide knowledgeable insight about treatment options, costs, and an estimate of how long your youngster may be wearing braces. No two people are exactly alike, and that includes the dental structure of children. Many patients benefit from the treatment provided by braces for one or more reasons. Some of the most common indicators include:

Difficulty with biting or chewing food.
Baby teeth that fell out too early or too late or in an irregular pattern.
Finger or thumb sucking.
Breathing through the mouth instead of the nose.
Teeth that are larger than average and which causes crowding or misplacement.
Teeth or jaw is out of proportion with the remainder of the face.
Teeth that do not meet together at all or are misaligned.
Biting the roof of the mouth or the cheek.
The jaw shifts or makes sounds.

The ideal age at which a child should be fitted with braces varies from one patient to the next. It’s common for children between the ages of 8 and 14 to begin receiving orthodontic treatment. This is because most are beginning to get their permanent teeth and their bodies are still growing. These factors may make a patient an optimum candidate for braces, though many adults benefit from them as well. Early treatment may offer the best outcome for some, but for others it is less of an issue. Our orthodontist serving Dana Point, CA can provide you with more insight specific to your child after an exam. For example, before getting braces, a patient may need to be treated for more time sensitive issues such as periodontal (gum) disease, or missing or damaged teeth. Many people develop orthodontic problems, and for a variety of reasons which makes it a common condition. Our orthodontist for Dana Point, CA has seen many examples of this in Dana Point. Depending on the nature of the problem, it may be unavoidable such as when it’s inherited from the family genes. Regardless of how your child developed an issue or issues that might benefit from wearing braces, it may be correctable. Here are some of the most common causes:

Inherited. Orthodontic issues that are commonly inherited include excessive space between teeth, extra teeth, missing teeth, crowding, jaw growth complications.
Sucking a finger at an early age.
Breathing only through the mouth rather than through the nose.
Poor nutrition.
Poor dental hygiene.

To learn more about orthodontic care, including braces, and if they may benefit your child, call us today to schedule an exam with an orthodontist Dana Point, CA families have trusted for decades. Can an orthodontist fix an open bite? For those children or adults who have what is commonly known as an open bite, it can cause a lifetime of problems if not corrected by an orthodontist Dana Point, CA trusts. As our orthodontist at John Redmond Orthodontics may tell you, if one has an open bite, their back teeth can wear out much faster than normal. Chewing can be painful. It is also common to have a speech impairment associated with an open bite. Other struggles can also be an issue, including eating and swallowing. If you or your child suffers from an open bite, our Dana Point, CA orthodontist may be able to correct it and in so doing, provide a permanent solution. What is an open bite? An open bite, also known as a bad bite, is a condition whereby the lower and upper teeth cannot make physical contact with one another when the jaw is closed. Ideally, one’s upper teeth should overlap the lower teeth slightly, or by about 25%. It’s natural for children whose permanent teeth have not yet come in to experience anterior open bites. However, if they do not outgrow this, or factors come into play that prevent the correct alignment from forming, it may be necessary to visit an orthodontist in Dana Point, CA to determine a treatment method. How does an open bite occur? There are several common reasons for why some people develop an open bite. It can be genetic, or because a child has baby teeth as well as adult teeth. For others, an open bite is a result of any of the following oral habits:

Thumb sucking. If a child is still sucking their thumb as their permanent teeth begin to develop (usually by age 5 or 6), it may require treatment by an orthodontist to correct the open bite.
Persistent sucking of the lower lip.
Forward protrusion of the tongue. This is often referred to as infantile swallow or tongue thrusting. When the tongue pushes through the front teeth when speaking, swallowing, or when at rest, this action can cause the development of an open bite.
Tongue forward posture. When the tongue is at rest but is too far forward, it pushes the teeth forward which can eventually create an open bite. One habit that can lead to a tongue forward posture is when a person persistently breathes through their mouth rather than their nose.

Self-Correction of an Open Bite As an orthodontist for Dana Point, CA may tell you, some children will experience a self-correction of an open bite without any medical intervention. To determine if this is likely for your child, call us at John Redmond Orthodontics to schedule an exam with our orthodontist serving Dana Point, CA. If treatment may be necessary, you can learn at that time what may be entailed and the time that may be required for orthodontic treatment. Treatment Options for Correcting an Open Bite Your Dana Point, CA orthodontist at John Redmond Orthodontics can determine the best treatment options for you or your child’s open bite. Solutions include a roller appliance, headgear, miniature anchors, a vertical chin cup, or a bite block. In more extreme cases, open bite surgery may be necessary.

How To Know If You Should Visit An Orthodontist

Some may be familiar with what an orthodontist is, while others may think that it is a type of dentist. The truth is, though, that the two are distinctly different, and offer unique services. While a dentist can clean teeth and fill cavities, an orthodontist offers solutions for straightening crooked teeth and resolving other oral issues. If you think that you could benefit from the help of an orthodontist, here are some things to consider. 1. You Have an Open Bite One reason to make an appointment with an orthodontist in Dana Point, CA is that you have an open bite. An open bite is when your upper and lower teeth do not touch when your jaw is closed. In some cases, this can be mostly a cosmetic issue. However, for many, it can end up causing problems with jaw function, and may even cause discomfort. By addressing an open bite quickly, you can make sure that it doesn’t have time to worsen, and it may be easier for an orthodontist to treat. 2. Your Teeth Need To Be Straightened Another reason that you may want to contact an orthodontist in Dana Point, CA is that you have crooked teeth. If your teeth are only slightly crooked, then they may not be impacting your health in any way, and the choice to have them straightened may be a personal choice to improve their cosmetic appearance. However, there can be some cases where teeth become crooked enough that they can cause discomfort. For example, crooked teeth, or overcrowded teeth can cause things like discomfort while chewing, breathing issues, and increased tooth decay. 3. You Experience Jaw Issues Something else that may lead you to get ahold of an orthodontist in Dana Point, CA is the presence of jaw issues. There can be a wide range of jaw issues that an orthodontist can help in addressing. From a clicking jaw, to a tight jaw, there can be more than one way that your jaw could be causing you discomfort. An orthodontist can help to address these kinds of issues, and help your jaw to function properly. While some are familiar with orthodontists and what they do, others may still not have a clear idea of what an orthodontist can do for them. The reality is, though, that there can be a wide range of benefits to seeking out an orthodontist, from straightening crooked teeth to resolving jaw pain and tension.

John Redmond Orthodontics

Contact us today if you would like to know more about treatment options for an open bite from an orthodontist Dana Point, CA families trust!

If you are looking for a Dana Point, CA cosmetic dentist who families recommend, look no further than John Redmond Orthodontics. Our dental team has been providing reasons to smile for more than twenty years. We are currently accepting new patients and our orthodontist in Dana Point, CA will happy to meet with you and discuss how he can help you.

Services We Offer

There are options available for people who wish to address their cosmetic dental issues. Some of the options that our orthodontist in Dana Point, CA may recommend that our patients includes:

Teeth Whitening: Teeth whitening is often used to correct tooth discoloration, which can happen as a result of chemical damage, aging, or staining of teeth. Although some patients may try teeth whitening that you can purchase in a store, keep in mind that these products may harm teeth and gums. It is much safer to have your teeth whitened by a dentist in Dana Point, CA.

Inlays and Onlays: If more than half a tooth becomes damaged, a cosmetic dentist will likely use an inlay or onlay to repair it. These pieces, which are bonded to the damaged area of the tooth, are typically made of composite resin, gold, or porcelain. Inlays are bonded to the tooth’s inside cusp tips, while onlays also extend over the cusps of the tooth.

Dental Crowns: Sometimes, a patient’s tooth has substantial damage or is completely missing. In these cases, we can use a dental crown to make the repair. Crowns are usually made of porcelain.

Teeth Veneers: Teeth veneers, which are usually made of porcelain, are thin shells of ceramic that a cosmetic dentist will bond directly onto the front surfaces of the teeth.

Dental Bonding: Dental bonding is an alternative to teeth veneers. This procedure can be used to restore teeth that are discolored, chipped, discolored, misaligned, or cracked.

Dental Implants: Dental implants offer a foundation for replacement teeth and feel, look, and function just like a person’s natural teeth. This gives the patient the ability to not only eat anything they want but also smile again with confidence.

Clear Braces: Clear braces can straighten your teeth without the visibility of traditional braces. The brand of clear braces that we use at John Redmond Orthodontics is Invisalign. They use a series of clear, removable aligners to straighten teeth without the metal wires or brackets used in traditional style braces.

Denture Relines: When a patient is fitted with new dentures, they will usually fit securely because they’re custom designed to fit the patient’s gums. However, gums tend to change over time which can affect the dentures’ fit, causing them to loosen. Having dentures relined every one to two years can help keep dentures secure.

Partial Dentures: Partial dentures are removable and made specifically made for the patient to replace one or two teeth which are missing.

A Cosmetic Dentist Can Help Make Your Smile Brighter

If you or someone in your family is dealing with cosmetic dental issues and would like to find out how the dental team at John Redmond Orthodontics can help, contact us to make an appointment for an exam. Call us today and see how pleasing it is to smile with the help of an orthodontist Dana Point, CA patients appreciate.

Do you need an orthodontist in Dana Point, California? If so, call John Redmond Orthodontics today to schedule a consultation. It can be a tough decision when it comes to finding an orthodontist. There are a lot of things to consider so that you know you and your health will be in good hands. Not to mention, you want to choose an orthodontist that you can trust and who you know will be there to take care of your concerns. You deserve those types of things and when you choose to work with John Redmond Orthodontics that is what you can expect. At John Redmond Orthodontics, Dr. M. John Redmond is an active member of the orthodontic community and he is affiliated with several professional associations like the American Association of Orthodontist, the Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists, the American Dental Association, the California Dental Association, the Orange County Dental Association, and the USC Orthodontic Alumni Association as well as the Pacific Dental Alumni Association, Treasurer of the San Clemente Educational Foundation, and sits on the Board of Directors of the San Clemente Boys and Girls Club. An orthodontist is a dentist who is trained to diagnose, prevent, and treat teeth and jaw irregularities. As trained and experienced professionals, the team at John Redmond Orthodontics will be able to correct existing conditions that you have and will be able to identify problems that may develop in the future. At John Redmond Orthodontics we aim to create a healthy and beautiful smile for each of our patients. And along the way, building a wonderful friendship with our patients will ensure a place where they all feel comfortable to address any issues and concerns. After all, it is your health and you deserve the best and to be treated that way. No matter what your age, you deserve to have beautiful, healthy, and straight teeth. Having a smile that you can be proud of increases an individual’s self-esteem and builds confidence. We love watching a patient transform as their new smile is created. You shouldn’t spend your life being ashamed of your teeth and avoiding smiling or laughing because you are embarrassed by your teeth. Let us help you transform your smile and your life, too! The team of John Redmond Orthodontics has years of education and experience, but most of all, we love what we do. Giving you a healthy, straight, beautiful smile that you have always wanted will always be our greatest accomplishment. We provide individualized care to children, teens, and adults that are seeking orthodontic treatment. We know you have a lot of choices when it comes to picking an orthodontist, but we hope that you choose and trust us to transform your smile into something you can be proud of.

Unwarranted Myths About Orthodontics

Nothing compares to a beautiful smile. Few are born with one that’s impossible to improve on. Most require orthodontic attention for an optimal appearance. Some avoid considering dental procedures due to common misunderstandings. Here are a few untrue rationales keeping residents of America’s left coast from seeking an orthodontist in Dana Point, CA. Orthodontic Treatments Are Purely Cosmetic While enhanced appearance is one of the best reasons for orthodontic treatments, it isn’t the only one. Orthodontists align teeth, which is helpful with biting and chewing. In some cases, the patient’s ability to speak can improve. Consult with the staff of John Redmond Orthodontics to learn if their services could be beneficial in one of these areas. Orthodontic Treatments Are Slow Those with mouths in need of attention sometimes require extensive work. For many, that isn’t the case. Commonly, orthodontic situations take no more than a few months to complete. Braces, which many fear wearing, aren’t the only tool orthodontists have at their disposal. Smile specialists have a wide variety of strategies for achieving results, some of which are quick. Dental professionals with skill and experience can guesstimate how much time your situation needs during a consultation. Closely follow the instructions of your orthodontist in Dana Point, CA. Failure in this department can add additional time to how long your correction takes. Orthodontic Treatments Are Costly Even if you’re purchasing services from a respected orthodontist in Dana Point, CA, the final bill may not be shocking. The cost depends greatly on the complexity of every case. Only an orthodontist may tell whether you require intense activity on your mouth or a simple procedure will suffice. Most offer free consultations, where you can get an idea of the financial burden before agreeing to have work done. Flexible payment plans make fielding charges as comfortable as possible. Orthodontic Treatments Are Only for Kids It’s common for children to get braces, but orthodontics isn’t the sole domain of little ones. Adults are just as eligible for orthodontic procedures as minors, and there’s no age limit. Perhaps you weren’t able to enjoy teeth straightening services when you were young, or an accident caused dental realignment. Correct your misfortune by taking action today. With the assistance of the professionals at John Redmond Orthodontics, you’ll soon have a grin that’s sunny and bright. By finding a renowned orthodontist, you can improve your appearance. Don’t let misconceptions stop you from obtaining the look you’ve always desired.

UNWARRANTED MYTHS ABOUT ORTHODONTICS INFOGRAPHIC

FAQ of Having Braces

Braces are one of the most common rites of passage for young teenagers. Because of how the jaw and teeth develop, the best time for braces is around 10 to 14 years old. If you or your children have recently gotten braces, it’s normal to have questions. Staying informed on your braces journey will help you succeed and come out with healthier teeth. 1. How Long Will I Need Them On? Perhaps the most common question people have about their braces is how long they’ll need to have them on. If you’re wondering this, the best person to ask is your orthodontist in Dana Point, CA. Your treatment plan is unique to you and your mouth, so it’ll be something you and your orthodontist can discuss. On average, people wear their braces for around 16 to 18 months. For more specific questions about how long you’ll need to wear your braces, reach out to John Redmond Orthodontics. The professionals there can give you an estimate of how long your care will take, giving you some peace of mind. 2. What Can I Eat? Another frequent question people ask about braces is what they can eat. It’s no secret that you have to be careful about what you eat while you have braces on, but it can be confusing to know exactly what you can and can’t eat. Of course, if you have a question about a specific food’s safety, you can reach out to your orthodontist in Dana Point, CA with any questions. As a general rule, it’s best to avoid sticky foods like candy that can pull on the wires of your braces. Even healthy foods like fruits and vegetables should be cut into smaller pieces to avoid damaging your braces. By taking care of your braces, you can avoid adding extra time to your treatment. 3. Will Braces Impede My Daily Life? Finally, it’s normal to wonder how braces will affect your normal lifestyle. There’s no need to worry- you can still stick to your routine with braces on. Even things like sports can be done with braces, albeit carefully. If you ask your orthodontist in Dana Point, CA, they should be able to give you a mouthguard to help protect your braces while you play. If you ever feel like your braces have been damaged, don’t hesitate to call John Redmond Orthodontics. Loose wires or brackets can increase your treatment time, so it’s important to get them fixed as soon as possible. There’s no need to stop doing what you love; braces won’t interfere with your daily routine. Schedule Your Orthodontic Consultation Today Finding an orthodontist in Dana Point, CA doesn’t have to be difficult. Choose an office that you know you can be proud of, call John Redmond Orthodontics.