Amazing Smiles Orthodontics

Orthodontic Services We Offer to Swanton & Sylvania Dental Patients Teeth straightening treatments Sylvania The aesthetic and health benefits of straight, properly aligned teeth should not be underestimated. To serve patients with diverse needs, Dr. Paul Hwang and our team are expertly trained to treat a variety of orthodontic problems, ranging from teeth crowding, to deep overbite, excessive overjet, open bite and underbite. Crowding of the Teeth Crowding occurs when there is insufficient space for all of the teeth in the upper arch, lower arch or both. The teeth may look slanted, twisted, uneven or pushed in front of, or behind, adjacent teeth. In addition to looking unsightly, crowded teeth are more difficult to clean and raise the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Crowded teeth can also lead to chronic tooth grinding and clenching since the teeth do not have a proper position in which to rest. Orthodontics gently and gradually shift the teeth into an ideal position; appliances such as an expander can also be used to modify the shape and width of the arch to accommodate all of the teeth. Open Bite An open bite occurs when the front teeth do not touch each other while contact occurs on the back teeth; there is a gap between the upper teeth and lower teeth. The upper and lower teeth may be positioned outward. An open bite may be caused by thumb sucking that results in tongue thrusting while swallowing. Some experts believe that prolonged use of bottles and pacifiers can also lead to the development of an open bite due to the development of a tongue thrust while swallowing. Treatment may include braces and the use of a special appliance to retrain the tongue position while swallowing however the best treatment is prevention by stopping thumb sucking and pacifier use before the age of 3. Deep Overbite A deep overbite is a condition in which the upper teeth overlap the lower teeth. Overbite may be caused by skeletal or dental issues; in the former, the jaw is the problem and in the latter, the teeth are to blame. An overbite may be hereditary or can be caused by uneven jaw growth. It can lead to problems with speech and/or chewing, damage to teeth, soft tissue and other serious dental issues. Missing Lateral Incisors In cases where a patient’s lateral incisors are missing, the surrounding teeth can be shifted into the proper position with braces and the missing lateral incisors can be replaced with a bridge, implant crown or canine substitution. Restorative options should be discussed with your general dentist Underbite Crooked teeth to straight teeth Sylvania An underbite occurs when the lower front teeth are positioned ahead of the upper teeth. It can be caused by a congenital misalignment of the lower jaw or caused by the patient voluntarily posturing the lower jaw ahead of the upper teeth. In either instance, the resulting underbite can make eating and speaking challenging, and cause other serious problems. An expander may be used to expand the upper jaw along with a protraction device of the upper jaw until the lower teeth no longer close ahead of the upper teeth. Skeletal issues such as an underbite are the main reasons why the American Association of Orthodontists recommends a child to receive an orthodontic consultation at the age of 7. Spacing of the Teeth Sometimes, all of the teeth are healthy and intact, yet spaced far apart. Braces or aligners are used to gradually shift the teeth closer together and close the spaces. Non-Braces Treatment (Non-fixed appliances) Not every case of misalignment requires treatment with braces or fixed appliances. Sometimes, reducing the width of certain teeth along with a removable appliance allows the adjacent teeth to align into the ideal position. Phase-One Treatment for Children Phase-One orthodontic treatment is performed before all of the permanent teeth have grown in (“erupted”). It is often indicated on children between the ages of 6 and 10. The goal is typically to preserve or create room in the jaw for the future eruption of the permanent teeth and to modify the skeletal relationship between the upper and lower jaws. Often, limited braces are placed on the upper and lower front teeth to improve the positions of the anterior teeth. Phase-One treatment is prescribed when existing orthodontic problems could significantly progress if not treated and ultimately lead to more invasive treatment by the time all the permanent teeth have erupted. To learn more about the conditions treated by Amazing Smiles Orthodontics, please call and schedule your free consultation today.

Serving dental patients from Sylvania and Swanton, OH Dr. Hwang has extensive training and years of experience treating Northwest Ohio communities and Toledo area patients. Whether you’re interested in straight teeth for yourself, your child or your teenager, he will listen to your concerns and develop a customized orthodontic treatment plan that’s right for you. While we use traditional metal braces at Amazing Smiles Orthodontics, we also offer ceramic braces and other types of orthodontic systems that are not so noticeable. Find out whether Invisalign® or clear ceramic braces could be an option for you. Don’t wait any longer. Now’s the time to get on the fast track to a sparkling new smile. Orthodontics For Adults Swanton orthodontic patient at Amazing Smiles Orthodontics Many adults with crooked teeth or misaligned jaws feel embarrassed by the idea of traditional metal braces. In these cases, dentist Dr. Hwang may suggest clear braces, like Invisalign, to his Sylvania and Swanton patients. However, if an adult’s orthodontic issues are more severe, he might recommend limited orthodontic treatment to address the main concerns of the patient or orthognathic surgery to address the misaligned bones that is the underlying cause of an improper bite. Types of Braces Dr. Hwang offers several types of braces in Sylvania & Swanton, including traditional metal brackets and wires that have been used for many years with predictable and consistent results. In addition to traditional braces, the doctor offers more modern options that are clear and more comfortable to wear. These options include ceramic braces and Invisalign. Some orthodontic options with AcceleDent will move teeth into the desired position and alignment 30-40 percent quicker without AcceleDent (note that these may not be appropriate for every case). Invisalign Invisalign aligners at Amazing Smiles Orthodontics in Swanton, OH Invisalign is a set of clear invisible aligners designed to gradually shift teeth into the proper position. The aligners should be worn in a specific sequence based on the patient’s prescription. They are comfortable, light and can be easily removed while the patient is eating and cleaning their teeth. Total treatment time with Invisalign ranges from 6 months or more, depending on the patient. Invisalign Teen Invisalign Teen is similar to traditional Invisalign treatment, with a few critical differences. Invisalign Teen comes with six replacement aligners at no extra charge, in case a few go missing during treatment. Also, Invisalign Teen has a special feature that guides erupting second molars into position without throwing off the alignment of the other teeth. Schedule a Consultation Our goal is to provide top-quality, affordable orthodontic care to you and your family! If you have questions about the cost of braces, we will be pleased to explain a wide range of financial options to fit your budget. To schedule your free orthodontic consultation, contact our Sylvania or Swanton office!

Orthodontic Consultation and Evaluation in Sylvania Ortho consultation at Amazing Smiles Ortho in Sylvania Knowing what to expect during your first orthodontic visit can help you feel more confident about your decision to seek treatment. At Dr. Paul Hwang’s orthodontic practice, our team has years of experience helping Sylvania and Swanton patients achieve healthy and beautiful smiles with orthodontics. We hope that the following information can help you better understand what to expect during your first visit with us. When to Schedule an Orthodontic Evaluation The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that all children get an orthodontic evaluation by age 7. However, this does not mean that if you are an adult, it’s too late to get braces or another orthodontic treatment. Patients of all ages can benefit from straight and aligned teeth. Dr. Hwang specializes in orthodontics for adults, from mild to severe. He can help you find a treatment plan that best addresses your orthodontic needs. Your First Orthodontic Consultation To ensure your first consultation with us is both informative and effective, we recommend that you bring your new patient forms filled out, your insurance card and any questions you may have for our team. The first step of orthodontic consultation involves evaluating your medical and dental history. Dr. Hwang will review any medical conditions and dental issues that may affect treatment. For example, if you have any cavities, they will need to be filled before your orthodontic appliance is installed. Next, Dr. Hwang and our team will perform an oral examination. This allows the orthodontist to get a close-up look at the position of your teeth, jaw and facial structures, as well as underlying dental issues that may not have been obvious with your dental records. Your oral examination may include intraoral and facial photographs, panoramic and cephalometric X-rays, and impressions for models of your teeth and bite. Diagnosis and Treatment Planning Upon gathering all of this information, Dr. Hwang will review the following with you: The cause and severity of your orthodontic issue(s) Dental health issues (if any) that need to be addressed before you undergo orthodontic treatment Whether treatment is necessary immediately or at a later time Your treatment options and the results you can expect with each The length of treatment The cost of treatment, insurance coverage and payment options The orthodontist will work with you to create a treatment plan that best matches your needs. He will go over the advantages and disadvantages of each treatment in detail with you. For instance, metal braces are used to treat extensive teeth and jaw alignment but many people are not fond of their obvious appearance. Ceramic (tooth-colored) braces are popular because they are less noticeable than traditional braces. If you have mild or moderate crookedness or jaw misalignment, you may be an appropriate candidate for Invisalign clear aligners. We encourage you to learn more about the treatment options we offer by browsing through our website. If you have questions, please have them ready so our team can answer them during your consultation. The first step towards a straighter and beautiful smile is scheduling a consultation with Dr. Hwang. To contact us, call our Swanton or Sylvania office today!

Straight, evenly arrayed teeth are an important part of every unforgettable smile. They are also central to ensuring optimal oral health and boosting self-confidence in social situations. Trusted Northwest Ohio dentist Dr. Paul Hwang is skilled in a wide range of orthodontic technologies, from traditional metal braces to ceramic, lingual and clear aligner options. Am I a Candidate for Braces? Braces can correct mild to severe teeth misalignment and bite irregularities including: Crooked, crowded or protruding teeth Gaps and spaces in between teeth Malocclusion (“bad bite” due to a misaligned jaw) Teeth that have shifted due to injury Braces can help improve several functional problems that result from crooked teeth and bite problems such as: Difficulty chewing or biting Difficulty speaking Facial pain due to grinding or clenching teeth (bruxism) Dr. Hwang offers several types of braces for adolescents and adults: Traditional Metal Braces Traditional braces are made of stainless steel metal in a network of brackets, archwires and elastic bands. They work by putting gentle, constant pressure on the teeth in order to gradually shift them into an aligned position. Today, traditional braces are lighter in weight and structure than ever before. Brackets are connected to an archwire with tiny elastics known as ligatures or o-rings, which will be changed during each appointment to increase the pressure on your teeth. Ceramic Braces These braces function the same way as metal braces do, but differ in their appearance. Made of clear, ceramic material, ceramic braces are preferred by many patients because they are less noticeable. Occasionally the elastics may become discolored, which can also temporarily discolor the teeth. Use of an appropriate toothpaste can mitigate this issue. Lingual Braces Lingual braces use the same brackets and wires used in metal braces but are installed behind the teeth. Like metal braces, lingual braces work by putting constant pressure on the teeth to move them into proper alignment. Damon Braces Damon braces offer a gentler approach to moving teeth. These braces are self-ligating, which means the brackets do not need o-rings. Instead, Damon braces use a slide mechanism to connect the archwires. This option requires fewer dental visits because the braces do not need to be continually adjusted. This generally translates into lower cost. Because the teeth experience a more constant pressure, rather than heavier pressure after an adjustment, there is also less discomfort. In addition, patients find that Damon braces are easier to clean. Invisalign® Invisalign aligners are preferred by many patients thanks to their clear design. Patients receive a series of custom-made aligners over the course of treatment. Each one gradually nudges crooked teeth into place, often in less than a year. The aligners are removable, which makes cleaning much easier than traditional wire braces. Because the aligners are made of a clear, resilient plastic material, they are barely noticeable to those around you. Forsus Appliances Forsus appliances are a relatively new treatment for noticeable overbites. This advanced option has replaced the bulky headgear that adolescents once dreaded. Instead of the old exterior appliance, the Forsus technology uses a spring, attached to braces, that is worn inside the cheeks. Over time it gradually moves the upper or lower jaw into a more natural position, enhancing the overall facial profile. Palatal Expanders When it comes to overcrowding in the mouth, the laws of physics are pretty clear: The mouth either needs fewer teeth or more room for the existing teeth. Traditionally, orthodontists recommended extracting a sufficient number of teeth to relieve the overcrowding and set the stage for successful orthodontic treatment. Palatal expanders provide a new option. The palatal expander is a device that uses pressure to move molars further back in the mouth, opening up space for other teeth to move into straight, evenly arrayed positions. Treatment Timeline During your orthodontic consultation, Dr. Hwang will thoroughly examine your teeth and mouth, as well as evaluate your oral health. Photographs and X-rays will be taken to help Dr. Hwang plan your treatment. For the first few days after getting your braces, your mouth may feel sore and tender. Temporary, minor discomfort is also normal after your regular orthodontic appointments when your braces are adjusted. Traditional braces are worn 24/7 and are typically in place for one to two years; it depends on the patient’s dental and orthodontic needs. Cost of Braces metal braces for straight teeth Sylvania The cost of braces depends on several factors, including the type of braces used and the complexity of treatment. Your braces may be partially covered by your dental insurance if your plan includes orthodontic treatment.

Nearly-invisible orthodontic treatment has become a popular option for teens hoping to navigate the high school years unburdened by the social cost of metal braces, as well as for adults who have put off correcting misaligned teeth or experienced drifting of teeth years after wearing braces. Choosing Invisalign® Clear Invisalign teeth straightening in Sylvania For many patients who select this advanced smile-enhancing technology, Invisalign® is the preferred choice. Invisalign retainers, known as aligners, are made of clear plastic and are custom-designed by your dentist to gradually move crooked teeth into place. Invisalign aligners offer better comfort, greater freedom and less time receiving adjustments at the dentist’s office. To date, more than 7 million patients have benefited from Invisalign orthodontic treatments. Trusted orthodontist Dr. Paul Hwang is pleased to offer Invisalign to patients in the Toledo area and throughout Northwest Ohio who desire a straight and even smile without braces. How Does Invisalign® Straighten Teeth? Invisalign treatment involves wearing a series of clear, thermoplastic aligners that look similar to teeth-whitening trays. Custom-crafted to match your unique specifications, the aligners fit snugly yet comfortably over your teeth. Each set of clear aligners works to gradually shift your teeth to the proper position. Computer-assisted design makes it possible for a nearly invisible retainer to do the work of the old metal-plus-bonding-cement approach, and do it more quickly. The aligners are hard to notice and easy to forget, and can be removed quickly for eating and social occasions. Am I a Good Candidate for Invisalign®? Invisalign is designed to treat minor to moderate tooth misalignment and bite irregularities, including: Crowded teeth Gaps and spaces between teeth Overbite (when the upper teeth bite over the lower teeth) Crossbite (when the upper and lower jaws are misaligned) Patients with severe orthodontic issues may require more extensive treatment, such as traditional metal braces. Dr. Hwang uses the most advanced methods to evaluate your case and determine the best treatment option for you. Invisalign® Treatment Invisalign requires a very modest investment of time. The first step in the process is to take X-rays and make an impression of your bite. This allows Dr. Hwang to generate a digital three-dimensional image of your mouth, which provides a baseline used to create your first aligner. You’ll wear your aligner 20 to 22 hours a day. Dr. Hwang will provide you with a new clear Invisalign retainer every one to two weeks, and monitor your progress with regular appointments. With state-of-the-art Invisalign technology, your goals can normally be achieved within a year to 18 months. Options and Attachments There are currently six types of Invisalign aligners available. Invisalign Full treats complex bite cases with a product that is worn on the top and bottom teeth. Invisalign Lite is appropriate when less tooth movement is necessary to attain the final straightening. Invisalign i7 is able to target one tooth or a small number of teeth that stand out in an otherwise orderly mouth. It is often recommended for patients who once had orthodontic treatment and have since experienced drifting of some teeth. Invisalign Teen is perfect for a mouth that is still developing in the adolescent years. This new product also comes with a clever benefit for parents: A color indicator reveals in a glance whether your teen is wearing the aligner the required number of hours each day. Invisalign Express is a faster, less costly option for patients with minor crowding or spacing issues. This is often an ideal choice for individuals who had orthodontic correction in the past, but experienced a change in position of the teeth over time, usually as a result of not wearing a post-treatment retainer for the prescribed duration. Invisalign Express requires about six months, and involves the use of approximately 10 aligners, rather than the usual 20-30 for standard Invisalign treatment. Invisalign with mandibular advancement, the newest innovation, aims to improve overbite while straightening teeth. This special aligner achieves a natural profile and proper fit between upper and lower teeth by gradually moving the lower jaw forward. This replaces the traditional method for correcting overbite, which involves the use of elastics. After Dr. Hwang evaluates your teeth and plots their future trajectory, it may become necessary to add SmartForce® attachments to your treatment plan. The small, tooth-colored attachments give the aligner additional surface area to grip onto, for more complex cases. These white attachments blend with the color of your teeth and will not affect the comfort of the Invisalign device.