Orthodontist in Helena, MT
We look forward to your first visit, where our friendly team will introduce you to the orthodontic process. We'll discuss your personalized treatment options, estimated duration, and costs during this complimentary consultation. We can take necessary records on the same day, ensuring a seamless and welcoming start to your orthodontic journey.
Orthodontics for Kids
Early orthodontic evaluation, recommended by the American Association of Orthodontists between ages 6 and 8, allows for identifying and promptly correcting growth-related and tooth positioning issues. This proactive approach can address crossbites, underbites, crowding, impacted teeth, jaw development, and airway concerns, often preventing the need for more invasive treatments like jaw surgery in the future.
Indications for Extractions
- Improved Jaw Growth: Extractions enhance jaw development, allowing teeth to grow into a more functional alignment.
- Dental Health Optimization: Removing irreparable teeth due to excessive decay ensures a healthier and decay-free oral environment.
- Expert Dental Care: Trust our skilled professionals to perform extractions precisely, ensuring a comfortable and efficient experience.
Orthodontics for Adults and Teens
Dr. Dawson and experienced team understand the importance of orthodontic care for patients of all ages in Helena, MT. Orthodontics isn’t just for children; it plays a crucial role in the dental health and confidence of teens and adults alike. With advancements in technology, orthodontic treatment, including metal braces, has become more comfortable and efficient, making it easier for patients to achieve a beautiful smile. By scheduling an appointment with us, you’re taking the first step toward improving your oral health and enhancing your smile for life.
Our practice is dedicated to providing personalized care and treatment tailored to your individual needs. Dr. Dawson and caring team prioritize the health and well-being of each patient, ensuring a positive and comfortable experience at every visit to our office in Helena, MT. Whether you’re a teenager seeking orthodontic treatment or an adult looking to enhance your smile, our experienced team is here to guide you through your orthodontic journey with care and expertise. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us today at (406) 449-0189 to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a healthier smile and improved confidence.
Orthodontics FAQ
When should a child undergo an orthodontic evaluation?
The American Association of Orthodontists advises that children receive an orthodontic checkup by the age of 7. This is because around this age, most adult permanent molars and some front teeth begin to erupt, and jaw growth and development issues become more noticeable. While orthodontics is often associated with pre-teens and teenagers, there are compelling reasons to consider an orthodontic evaluation for your child at an earlier stage.
Why choose an Orthodontist?
Orthodontists are dental specialists who undergo an additional two to three years of training beyond dental school to diagnose and treat dental and skeletal irregularities accurately. Their expertise allows them to create beautiful smiles and ensure optimal bite correction and functionality. The title of "orthodontist" is reserved for those with specialized training attesting to their proficiency in treating orthodontic patients.
What causes orthodontic issues?
Many orthodontic problems are hereditary, such as crowding, spacing, extra or missing teeth, underbites, protrusion, periodontal disease, and jaw growth irregularities. However, certain malocclusions can result from finger or thumb sucking, accidents, early or late loss of baby teeth, chronic mouth breathing, premature birth, and other causes.
Can adults benefit from orthodontic treatment?
Orthodontic treatment is increasingly popular among adults, with one in four patients over 18. Contemporary technologies offer smaller, less conspicuous, and more comfortable orthodontic appliances, making treatment more appealing to adults.
Why is orthodontic treatment essential?
Orthodontic treatment serves multiple purposes. Misalignment of teeth and jaws can lead to abnormal tooth wear, chewing and speech difficulties, and excessive stress on supporting bone and gum tissues. Untreated issues often necessitate more extensive dental treatment later in life. Orthodontics can also enhance facial aesthetics and lip positions. Beyond aesthetics, properly aligned teeth are easier to clean and maintain, contributing to better oral health. Orthodontics goes beyond aesthetics; it establishes the foundation for proper tooth, jaw, and lip support.
How long will orthodontic treatment take?
The duration of orthodontic treatment varies depending on the severity of dental issues, bite and crowding concerns, compliance, and treatment goals. Typically, orthodontic treatment spans 1 to 3 years, a duration determined during a complimentary consultation with our doctors.
What should I eat with braces?
Maintaining a healthy diet is crucial during orthodontic treatment. It's essential to avoid sticky, hard, chewy foods like candy and nuts and damaging beverages such as soda and juices. You can still enjoy various delicious meals and snacks while adhering to these guidelines.
How can I keep my braces clean?
Maintaining oral hygiene is vital during orthodontic treatment to prevent staining. Brackets on your teeth create more surfaces for bacteria to cling to, especially near the gum line and between teeth. Frequent and thorough brushing is essential, especially in the morning, at night, and after meals. Consider using products like water flossers and plaque-detecting toothpaste, such as PlaqueHD, to aid in caring for your braces. Your diligence in oral care will ensure your orthodontic treatment progresses smoothly.
Damon System Benefits
The Damon System, unlike traditional braces, utilizes gentle forces to safeguard your teeth and gums during treatment. Beyond straightening teeth, it delivers a naturally beautiful smile. Studies confirm that a fuller, wider smile is more attractive, emphasizing the appeal of upright teeth aligned in an attractive arc. Damon Smile treatment offers gentler force, broader smiles, faster treatment, incredible results, and metal or clear bracket options, all without the need for headgear or unnecessary tooth extractions.
Clear Aligners Advantages
Spark Aligners represent a cutting-edge technology for teeth straightening without braces. Utilizing 3D computer imaging, these clear aligners are custom-made for each patient, allowing precise positioning of teeth. Unlike conventional braces, they offer discretion, regular oral hygiene, minimal dietary changes, and enhanced comfort. Worn for 20 to 22 hours daily, they are an excellent choice for those seeking a subtle smile transformation.
When to schedule your child’s orthodontic evaluation?
It is recommended to schedule your child's orthodontic evaluation by the age of 7, as this allows the orthodontist to assess their dental development and identify any potential issues early on. Early evaluation enables timely intervention if necessary, leading to more effective treatment outcomes and potentially shorter treatment duration.
What to consider when choosing an orthodontist?
When selecting an orthodontist, it's important to consider factors such as experience, expertise, and the quality of care provided. Dr. Dawson and our team in Helena, MT offer years of experience, specialized training in orthodontics, and a commitment to patient satisfaction. We prioritize personalized care, advanced technology, and a comfortable patient experience to ensure optimal results for every patient.
How long does a typical orthodontic treatment take?
The duration of orthodontic treatment varies depending on the individual patient's orthodontic needs and the complexity of their case. On average, treatment with braces or clear aligners may take anywhere from 12 months to 2 years to achieve desired results. During your initial consultation at our Helena, MT office, Dr. Dawson will evaluate your specific case and provide a customized treatment plan, including an estimate of the expected treatment duration. Our goal is to provide efficient and effective orthodontic treatment, ensuring a healthy and beautiful smile for life.
Orthodontic Treatments Available
Braces
Dr. Dawson brings unparalleled expertise to braces treatment, particularly with Damon Braces. With years of experience and extensive knowledge as an educator of Damon Mechanics, Dr. Dawson stands out among orthodontists. Patients benefit from gentler force, faster treatment plans, and incredible results with Damon Smile treatment. Our office in Helena, MT utilizes advanced technology to ensure comfortable and efficient care, offering both metal and clear bracket options for braces. Get rid of headgear and unnecessary tooth extractions—experience a broad, natural smile with fewer office visits and superior outcomes under the expert care of Dr. Dawson and our dedicated team. Schedule your appointment today for a confident, healthy smile that lasts a lifetime.
Clear Aligners
Clear aligners are a popular choice for teens and adults seeking a discreet way to straighten their teeth. With clear aligners, you can achieve a beautiful smile without the look of traditional metal braces. Dr. Dawson expertise ensures gentle and effective treatment. With clear aligners providing a comfortable and convenient option for busy lifestyles. Our experienced team will guide you through the process, from your initial appointment to the final results, ensuring you receive personalized care every step of the way. Schedule your appointment today to start your journey toward a straighter and healthier smile.
Interceptive Treatment
At our Helena, MT office, Dr. Dawson provides interceptive treatment as part of our orthodontic care for children. Interceptive treatment helps address orthodontic issues early on, before they become more serious. By starting treatment during childhood, we can guide the growth of the teeth and jaw to create a healthier smile in the future. Dr. Dawson expertise ensures gentle and effective care, tailored to meet the specific needs of each child. With interceptive treatment, we focus on preventing problems and promoting proper dental development. Schedule an appointment with us today to learn more about interceptive treatment and how it can benefit your child's smile and overall health.
About Dr. Dawson
Dr. Brad studied dentistry at the University of Nevada Las Vegas and really enjoys working with kids and fixing smiles. After more schooling at Indiana University, he’s now moving to Montana to help people with their teeth in Helena and Great Falls, MT. After earning post-doctorate degrees from Indiana University, he’s recognized for his achievements, including the Ralph E. McDonald Scholar Award. Excited to join dental teams in Helena and Great Falls after 12 years in Salt Lake City, Dr. Brad looks forward to serving the people of Montana.
