Orthodontics
Orthodontics
Crooked, crowded, or gapped teeth can not only be embarrassing, but may also be detrimental to your oral health.
Drs. Danny and Jan O'Keefe provide orthodontic treatment at our Flowood, MS, practice to straighten your teeth and keep your smile healthy.
Here is why so many of our dental patients are choosing this type of treatment...
Benefits of Orthodontics
Enhanced Aesthetics
The most common reason why patients choose orthodontics is the desire for a straighter, more beautiful smile. Shifting the teeth into proper alignment brings balance and symmetry to the smile, enhancing your overall appearance.
Improved Function
If the teeth are misaligned, chewing can be difficult. Orthodontic misalignment can also cause bite problems, which can lead to dental erosion, TMJ disorder, and a host of other oral health issues. Braces can reduce the risk of these conditions.
Better Oral Health
It can be challenging to clean crooked or overlapped teeth. As a result, food particles and plaque become trapped in hard-to-reach areas. Braces treatment moves each tooth into its optimal position, making it easier to brush and floss.
Schedule an Orthodontic Consultation
Is a straight smile part of your dental plan? If so, schedule an orthodontic consultation with one of our Flowood dentists. We can fully assess your oral health and determine a treatment plan that can deliver the results you desire. In addition, we can refer you to an orthodontist when necessary for the highest level of care.
We offer a number of orthodontic treatments at our family dental practice, including Invisalign® and MTM® Clear Aligners. We also work alongside a team of experienced orthodontists so our patients can receive truly comprehensive care. To learn more about orthodontics, contact a member of our friendly staff online or give us a call at:
(601) 936-2526
Candidacy for Orthodontics
Virtually anyone interested in a straighter, healthier smile can be considered for this type of treatment. During a consultation at our Flowood practice, our dentists will assess your oral health and determine which technique is most beneficial for you. If necessary, we can refer you to an orthodontist for further evaluation.
Crooked, Misaligned, or Gapped Teeth
Orthodontic treatment is typically recommended to any patient with misaligned teeth or noticeable gaps in their smile.
Patients of All Ages
Orthodontics can be beneficial for patients of all ages. There are many treatment options for children, teens, and adults to choose from, depending on each patient's unique goals.
Good Oral Health
Patients considering orthodontic therapy should be in good oral health. Therefore, health problems such as gum disease and extensive decay should not be present. Conditions such as these can actually negate the benefits of treatment and should be addressed before orthodontics are pursued.
"I was very pleased with my service."
Mi'Lisa Lansdale
2020
I was anxious about the dental appointment before I arrived, but once there, the anxiety was replaced with comfort. The entire staff is super-friendly, but Billie was especially sweet! She made me feel relaxed and answered all my questions. The dentist is a hoot too! I loved her instantly. I adore Family Dental Care! You guys ROCK!
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Mitchell Case
2019
The staff was very polite and did an awesome job of helping me understand what was needed and talked me thru all the procedures , setting up appts with oral surgeons and helping me remain calm , I was very pleased with my service there!!!
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Improve your smile. Improve your self esteem. Improve your life. It's all possible at Family Dental Care in Flowood.
Conditions You Can Correct with Orthodontics
Crooked or Gapped Teeth
Any type of dental misalignment can be addressed with orthodontics. Braces or aligners can close spaces and move the teeth into proper alignment, bringing balance, symmetry, and harmony to the smile.
Overbites
When the upper teeth overlap the lower teeth, it is called an overbite. Also called a "deep bite", this condition is generally caused by an overdeveloped upper jaw or an underdeveloped lower jaw.
Underbites
An underbite is the opposite of an overbite and is usually caused by an overdeveloped lower jaw. This condition occurs when the lower teeth jut out and overlap the upper teeth.
Crossbites
Sometimes instead of moving too far forward or backward, the upper and lower jaws can be misaligned from side-to-side. This type of malocclusion is referred to as a crossbite.
Open Bites
If the front teeth do not come together, even when the back teeth are touching, it is called an open bite. This condition may be genetic or may be caused by childhood habits, like thumb-sucking.
Overjets
Also known as "buck teeth", an overjet is characterized by upper front teeth that protrude outward. Often confused with an overbite, an overjet refers to horizontal misalignment, while the former refers to a vertical issue.
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David Hogg
2020
One of the best dentist ive eber been too! Very fast, efficient, and caring! Awesome team!
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Lacey Richards
2019
Perfessional, efficient, caring. My experience so far has been absolutely wonderful!
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Types of Orthodontic Treatments
Traditional Braces
With traditional braces, the teeth are gradually moved into their desired positions over time using steel brackets, bands, and wires. Each month, the wires are tightened until treatment is complete.
Clear Braces
While similar to traditional braces by design, clear braces are slightly less visible due to the materials used. Instead of metal, the brackets are made with ceramic and the wires are tooth-colored, so they blend in with your smile.
Invisalign
One of the most popular alternatives to conventional braces, Invisalign® straightens the teeth with clear trays. This system is virtually invisible and the trays can be removed when eating or when cleaning the teeth.
MTM Clear Aligners
Similar to Invisalign, MTM® Clear Aligners shift the teeth over time using removable thermoplastic trays. Compared to Invisalign, treatment with MTM is often more affordable. We offer this option at our Flowood practice.
Braces vs. Clear Aligners
Orthodontic Treatment Timeline
Initial Consultation
During your first appointment at our Flowood practice, your dentist or orthodontist will assess your teeth, as well as your jaw joints and other surrounding structures. Your treatment options will be explored in detail to find a solution that will work with your goals and lifestyle.
Beginning Treatment
If you choose braces, there will be an appointment to have them placed. Those who opt for aligner trays will be fitted for the first set in the series. Your orthodontist will provide instructions for the first couple of weeks and will schedule a follow-up visit.
Active Treatment
Over the next several months, your smile will become straighter. Your orthodontist assesses your progress during every visit. Traditional orthodontics take anywhere from two to four years to complete. Aligner therapy usually takes about 18 months.
Retention
Following your orthodontic regimen, you will need to wear a retainer at night to keep your smile from shifting. It is important that you follow your orthodontist's instructions closely. Otherwise, the results of your treatment may be short-lived.
Orthodontics Enhances Your Teeth And Your Self-Esteem!
Do you show your teeth when you smile, or do you keep your mouth closed?
If you don't feel confident in your smile, it has likely impacted your everyday life. It may have even caused lower self-esteem.
Fortunately, there is a solution: orthodontics.
Orthodontics can enhance your appearance and boost your self-esteem. There's even a science behind this effective strategy.
A study published in Angle Orthodontist revealed that 70.6% of orthodontic patients experience an increase in self-esteem as a result of their treatment.
Whether clear aligners, braces, Invisalign, or another solution is what you need, we can expertly improve your smile. Invest in yourself — and your happiness — at Family Dental Care in Flowood, MS.
If you're ready for your consultation, contact us online or call us at
(601) 936-2526
Combining Orthodontic Therapy with Other Treatments
Often, patients combine orthodontics with additional cosmetic procedures for comprehensive results. For example, once your treatment is complete, you may wish to enhance your smile with porcelain veneers or whitening. Your dentist will work closely with your orthodontist, and can discuss all of your options during a consultation at our Flowood practice.
Making Your Results Last
When you choose to visit our Flowood practice, you're investing time and money in your appearance. Fortunately, it only takes minimal effort to make your results last. Follow these tips, and you can have a dazzling smile for the rest of your life:
Wear Your Retainer
After braces, you may think that you'll never have to wear any orthodontic gear again. That's a misconception, but trust us, it gets much easier after your treatment is complete.
You should wear your retainer every night, so that your teeth don't shift or return to their original positions.
Just remember: it's really not much of a deviation from your routine. You just need to put it in before bed, then put it in a safe place during the day.
Clean Your Retainer
If you don't clean your retainer each day, residue will collect in the trays. It may cause slight shifts to your spacing or irritate your gums. Not to mention, it's unsanitary!
It helps to think of your retainer as a second set of teeth. You can brush and rinse it when you take it out in the morning, and again right before you put it in at night.
Brush Your Teeth
Neglecting your dental hygiene may allow old issues to resurface.
For instance, gums with gingivitis may result in loose or shifting teeth, which can reset the work your orthodontic treatment achieved.
Not to mention, cavities and chips from weakened enamel can compromise your gorgeous new smile.
Keep it stunning by brushing and flossing regularly.
Visit Your Dentist
Regular maintenance goes a long way in keeping your smile healthy, bright, and beautiful.
Your dentist can make sure your teeth aren't moving, handle small problems before they become big, and remove any plaque and tartar buildup.
Make sure you visit us every six months!
Contact Us to Learn About Maintenance Tips
"Coming here is like going to visit family!" Read Why Our Flowood Patients Trust Us
Tricia Holder
2022
My dental hygenist was very thorough in cleaning and polishing my teeth. I apologize that I do not remember her name, but she is fairly new to the clinic. She took x-rays and gave positive feedback about my care of my teeth. For my oral evaluation I normally see Dr. Belote, but she was really busy with another patient at the time. I saw Dr. O'Keefe, and he gave a very thorough examination as well. The office staff was friendly, and the bookkeeper explained my new dental insurance policies with me in a patient, calm manner. I was very pleased with my visit. View On Google
Amaryillis Wallace
2022
They are the Best. My special needs son has been a patient for years. The entire staff makes us feel so welcomed and cared for. Their patience with Sean is amazing he leaves happy and not stressed, with beautiful clean teeth. We have moved out of state but we will continue to return for his dental care. I highly recommend! View On Google