Call 425-977-2505
21920 76th Ave W., Suite 201 Edmonds, WA 98026
SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION
a
SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION
M

All About Orthodontics

Your Journey to a Healthy, Beautiful Smile

Why Orthodontics?

Achieving a Beautiful Smile and Optimal Oral Health

Orthodontics is a specialized field of dentistry that focuses on the proper alignment of your teeth and jaw. With orthodontic treatment, you can achieve not only a beautiful smile but also significant health benefits. At Edmonds Orthodontics, Dr. Paula Ohara and Dr. Kris Kim are dedicated to helping you obtain the healthy, straight smile you’ve always wanted.

Reasons for Orthodontic Treatment

Benefits for Adults & Children

  • Breathing or Swallowing Problems: Mouth breathing can lead to snoring and sleep apnea.
  • Crossbite: One or more upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth.
  • Crowding: Extra or malpositioned teeth.
  • Deep Overbite: Lower front teeth bite into the upper tissue.
  • Facial Disfigurement: Affects jaw development and tooth position.
  • Jaw & Joint Pain: Associated with misalignment.
  • Missing or Extra Teeth: Due to decay, injuries, or inherited issues.
  • Overjet (Protruding Teeth): Upper teeth extend beyond normal, often with a short lower jaw.
  • Self-Image: A beautiful smile boosts confidence.
  • Spacing Issues: Gaps due to missing, small, or large teeth.
  • Speech, Chewing, or Biting Problems: Corrected with proper alignment.
  • Underbite: Lower jaw protrudes longer than the upper jaw.

patients at the front desk

What Does Orthodontic Treatment Involve?

Three Phases of Orthodontic Care

1. Planning Phase

Your first visits may include:

  • Medical and dental history evaluation.
  • Castings or “molds” of your teeth.
  • Computer-generated images of your head and neck.
  • Photographs of your face and mouth.
  • X-rays of your teeth and jaws.

After careful planning, we design and apply braces or fabricate custom-made appliances.

2. Active Phase

Regular visits for adjustments and following specific treatment requirements ensure successful outcomes.

3. Retention Phase

When treatment is completed, braces or appliances are removed, and a new appliance (retainer) is made. Retainers are usually removable and maintain changes until teeth and bone stabilize in their new positions.