Why is orthodontic treatment important?
Treatment can help lessen the chances of a wide range of dental problems, such as tooth decay and gum disease. Yet the fact is, over 90 percent of people seek orthodontic treatment for one simple reason: a great smile! When you correct orthodontic problems, you can smile with confidence and feel better about yourself.

What is the right age for my child to begin orthodontic treatment?
We like to evaluate our young patients between the ages of 7 and 8. At this stage, we can determine if orthodontic treatment will be needed in the future.

I'm an adult. Is it too late for me to seek orthodontic treatment?
According to the AAO, one out of five orthodontic patients are adults. The good news is many adult orthodontic problems can be corrected. Whether you're 40 or 70, a nice smile goes a long way in making you look — and feel — better about yourself.

What causes orthodontic problems?
There are many reasons why people have orthodontic problems (see next question). The best way to determine your specific problem is to talk to Dr. Browning — consultations are free and he will give you an honest answer about what it will take to treat you — and get the smile you deserve!

What are the most common orthodontic problems?

•	Crowding, when jaw structure cannot accommodate the size of adult teeth.
•	Overjet or protruding upper teeth, when upper front teeth protrude beyond normal contact with the lower front teeth.
•	Deep overbite, when the lower incisor (front) teeth bite too close or into the gum tissue behind the upper teeth.
•	Open bite: An open bite results when the upper and lower incisor teeth do not touch when biting down.
•	Crossbite, when the upper teeth bite inside the lower teeth.
•	Underbite or lower jaw protrusion: when the lower jaw is longer than the upper jaw.

How long does it take to correct orthodontic problems?
It depends on your particular problem, but generally you can expect treatment to range from one to three years. After your free consultation with Dr. Browning, he will give you an estimate on the length of treatment.

To view how some of the most common orthodontic problems are corrected over time, click on the links below:

Treatment with braces (front view)
Non-extraction treatment (side view)
Non-extraction treatment (top view)
Extraction treatment (side view)

For more information about orthodontic treatment, visit http://www.braces.org/.