Bend, Oregon, is a beautiful place to live and play but finding the right orthodontic care can be challenging. That’s why Dr. Kelley Mingus dedicates his practice to providing patients with the best orthodontic options available. From braces to aligners and everything in between, Dr. Mingus is here to help you improve your oral health, your smile, and your confidence set over a lifetime. Here are a few of the orthodontic options he offers for those who are looking to explore them in Bend.
Braces
Traditional braces are still the most common and effective option for straightening teeth. Dr. Mingus has a variety of braces to choose for both children and adults, from metal to clear to gold braces. Metal braces are the most traditional option and are made of durable materials that help keep the technician’s aligning the teeth throughout the treatment period. Clear braces are made of tooth-colored, band-like material that is less visible than traditional braces. Gold braces are made of durable and attractive 18-karat gold. Dr. Mingus also offers lingual braces, which are braces that are placed on the backs of the teeth for a more attractive and discrete look.
Aligners
Clear aligners are another effective option for straightening the teeth. Dr. Mingus uses the Invisalign® system, which uses molded plastic aligners to re-position the teeth. Each set of aligners is worn for three weeks before being changed to the next set. The Invisalign® system is a less invasive and more comfortable option than traditional braces. The resulting adjustments are gradual, which means there is less discomfort and a more predictable outcome.
Early Orthodontic Treatment
Dr. Mingus is a big proponent of early orthodontic treatment, which can help make braces or aligners more effective once your child reaches their teens. By the age of seven, most children have a good sense of their permanent teeth and their growth patterns. It’s an ideal time to start assessing what needs to be done to plan for the best possible outcome. Dr. Mingus offers several early orthodontic options for children including:
- Functional Appliance – This type of appliance is used to move both the teeth and the jaw into alignment. This is the most common option for children between the ages of seven and 11.
- Headgear – This type of headgear is used to prevent further growth of the lower jaw while allowing the upper jaw to grow.
- Palatal Expander –This type of appliance is used to expand the palate (roof of the mouth) to make more room for the upper teeth to be properly aligned.
- Retainers – After the early orthodontic treatment is completed, the child will need to wear a retainer to hold the teeth in place as the permanent teeth move into position.
Fixed Retainers
Most patients will still need to wear retainers full time for a period of 1 to 2 years after the treatment is finished to keep the teeth in the proper place. However, thanks to advancements in orthodontic technology, some patients will only need to wear retainers at night. Dr. Mingus uses the fixed retainer system so that when it comes time to eat, brush, or floss; the retainer stays in place.
Customized Treatments
Dr. Mingus is here to help you explore all the orthodontic options in Bend. From customized treatment plans to flexible payment options, he has everything you need to achieve a radiant, confident smile. Whether you need braces, aligners, retainers or early treatment for your child, Dr. Mingus will help you find the right solution for your individual needs. Schedule your complimentary preliminary visit today and start on the path to improved oral health.