Why come to an Orthodontist?

It has been said that ‘anyone can do orthodontics.  It’s easy!’  In fact, many general dentists ‘do orthodontics’.

But MOVING TEETH WELL by directing them in healthy, aesthetic, functionally stable positions with minimum discomfort or other undesirable effects, is one of the most difficult and exacting procedures in all of dentistry.  This is what Orthodontists do.  We ‘move teeth well’.

Orthodontists are dentists first, who then specialize and go to school for an extra 2-3 years.  They immerse themselves in this specialty.  Then they do just orthodontics: all day, every day.

What are Clear Aligners?

One to move teeth is with clear aligners.  These are pieces of plastic that have been given a prescription to ‘move teeth well’.  It is just another tool in the Orthodontist’s tool box.  What’s important is the prescription associated with the movement of the teeth.

The specific prescription is individualized for each patient.

A digital image of the teeth (Scan) or actual Silicone Elastomeric impression (PVS) is sent to the Aligner company and the orthodontist then outlines the exact movement of the teeth that is desired.  Experience in moving teeth is a pre requisite if a good result is wanted.

A picture of a scan or PVS impression can be enclosed too.

How much does it cost to have an initial evaluation at Zammit Orthodontics?

There is no charge for the initial evaluation or for any recall visits. There may be a charge for TMJ evaluations or for second opinions.

Once treatment starts there is a fee that is paid monthly or quarterly.

What is a good age to start seeing an Orthodontist?

Age 7 to 8 is the ideal age for a screening unless your dentist or parent has specific concerns. We do not, however, usually start treatment at this age.

What is the average length of orthodontic treatment?

The average length of treatment is 1.5 years in braces. If functional appliances are required prior to braces to correct jaw alignment, treatment time will vary depending on growth of the jaws. Difficult cases can take up to two years. On rare occasions, it can take longer than 2 years.

Does everyone have to wear a retainer?

Throughout active treatment, not everyone needs to start treatment with a retainer however, after the braces are removed, night time retainers are of vital importance in keeping teeth stable.

Is Orthodontics restricted to braces?

No. In this office, orthodontics is not restricted to just braces. It encompasses Jaw Joint problems, Sleep Apnea and Snore Appliances, grinding night guard appliances, mouth guards for sports, and functional appliances to align the jaws.