Dr. King Answers: Does Our Child Need a Referral to See You?

Q: Should we wait for our general dentist to tell us our son should seek orthodontic care and when to do so --- OR can we just come in to your office? We just don't want to have orthodontic care if it is not needed.

A: Great question! Your general or family dentist can provide great perspective on the timing or reason for an orthodontic consultation. Your doctor may offer the advice of having an orthodontist evaluate your child's teeth. Sometimes, your general dentist will give you a King Orthodontics referral form detailing the areas of concern. However, a referral from your dentist is NOT required.

We often have concerned parents that would like an evaluation. They can simply call the office and schedule the free consult. [See office locations and contact information in right sidebar/column.] Doing so can often give great peace of mind and is completely free.

Patients and staff in clinic bay of King Orthodontics' new
Rochester office location at 2769 Superior Drive NW.

At King Orthodontics, we do a complimentary panoramic radiograph, and spend whatever time is necessary to answer all of your questions plus those of your child's. Always remember, we will treat your son or daughter exactly as we would treat our own sons and daughters. So, no unnecessary care is ever done and all options are fully explained.

Keep smiling, and see you soon.

P.S.: Click here to see before-and-after images that reflect Dr. King's expertise.

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Dr. King Answers: What Happens If a Tooth Grows in Out of Normal Position?

Q:  What happens if a tooth grows in out of normal position? Is it common?

Class I case of malocclusion with severe crowding and
labially erupted canines.

A: Yes, this is a serious concern. Often, if a tooth grows in out of the normal arch form, it’s a sign of severe crowding [see image, left]. Although it is better than having an impacted tooth, it can be quite detrimental:

* Teeth without enough space will detour outward or inward.

* If a tooth grows towards the cheek or lips, it can often cause sores or accidental cheek biting.

* If a tooth diverts to the roof of the mouth, awkward biting can occur.

* Teeth far out of the arch are difficult to brush and floss.

* Snaggleteeth are correctable, and the results can be dramatically great!

See you soon for a free consult -- and keep smiling.

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SOURCE: Wikipedia [image]

Dr. King Answers: What Is Invisalign Teen®?

Q: What is Invisalign Teen®?

A: Invisalign® is a great alternative to braces for many patients, including some teenagers. Because teenagers' teeth are constantly growing and changing -- unlike adult teeth -- a special form of Invisalign®, called "Invisalign Teen®," is available. The differences are often subtle, but important.

Each Invisalign Teen Compliance Indicator reflects how
well a patient is adhering to his or her treatment regimen.

There are small wear indicators that change color when the aligners are worn for the correct amount of time. Younger patients are often less disciplined than adults and, thus, the indicators are a great gauge of compliance.

Also, Invisalign Teen® takes into consideration teeth in the process of jaws completing eruption, as well as jaws in the process of completing growth.

All in all, Invisalign Teen® is a great method for many teenagers to improve their smile without traditional braces.

Keep smiling, and see you soon for a free consult -- perhaps, for Invisalign Teen®!

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SOURCE: Invisalign® [illustration]