Orthodontic treatment is a highly predictable and successful way to improve the appearance, function, and health of your smile. Depending on the complexity of the orthodontic issue, treatment may occur in two or three distinct phases designed to achieve long-lasting results.

Straight teeth not only enhance confidence and self-esteem, but they also improve chewing, speaking, and overall oral health. Orthodontic treatment can address a variety of concerns, including:

• Overbite – The upper teeth significantly overlap the lower teeth.
• Overjet – The upper teeth extend too far forward, or the lower teeth sit too far back.
• Underbite – The lower teeth protrude beyond the upper teeth.
• Crossbite – Some upper teeth close inside the lower teeth rather than outside.
• Crowding – Insufficient space causes teeth to become misaligned or rotated.

When Is the Right Time to Start Orthodontic Treatment?

Orthodontic treatment can be beneficial for children, teens, and adults. The ideal time to begin depends on the specific orthodontic issue and the patient’s stage of growth and development.

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children receive an orthodontic evaluation by age 7. Early evaluations allow Dr. Kazmierski to identify developing concerns and determine whether treatment should begin immediately or simply be monitored over time.

For teens and adults, treatment can begin whenever the teeth, gums, and supporting bone are healthy enough for orthodontic care.

What Can You Expect During Orthodontic Treatment?

Every orthodontic journey is unique, but all treatment plans share the same goal: creating a healthy, functional, and beautiful smile.

Throughout treatment, our team closely monitors tooth movement and makes adjustments as needed to keep progress on track. Regular appointments help ensure your treatment remains efficient and effective.

Patient cooperation also plays an important role in achieving the best results. Attending scheduled visits, maintaining good oral hygiene, and following appliance instructions can help prevent delays and support a successful outcome.

The Three Phases of Orthodontic Treatment

Orthodontic treatment typically takes between six and thirty months to complete, depending on the severity of the orthodontic condition, the treatment method selected, and patient compliance.

Phase 1: Diagnosis and Treatment Planning

Successful treatment begins with a thorough evaluation and customized treatment plan.

During this stage, Dr. Kazmierski gathers important diagnostic information, which may include:

Medical and Dental Evaluation

A review of your dental and medical history helps identify any conditions that could affect treatment and ensures that your oral health is ready for orthodontic care.

Digital Impressions

Our office uses the Medit i700 digital scanner to create highly accurate 3D models of your teeth without the need for traditional impression materials.

Digital X-Rays

Panoramic and cephalometric X-rays provide detailed information about tooth position, jaw structure, and overall oral health, helping guide treatment planning.

Digital Treatment Planning

Advanced imaging technology allows Dr. Kazmierski to evaluate tooth movement, facial balance, and bite relationships before treatment begins.

Clinical Photography

Photographs of the teeth and face help document progress and provide valuable information throughout treatment.

Phase 2: Active Orthodontic Treatment

Once the treatment plan is finalized, active treatment begins.

Depending on your needs, treatment may involve:

• Traditional metal braces
• Ceramic braces
• Invisalign® clear aligners
• Lingual (inside surface) braces
• Other specialized orthodontic appliances

These appliances gradually move the teeth into their ideal positions using carefully controlled forces. Regular adjustment appointments allow Dr. Kazmierski to monitor progress and make any necessary modifications.

Attending scheduled appointments and properly caring for your orthodontic appliance are essential to keeping treatment on schedule.

Phase 3: Retention and Smile Maintenance

After active treatment is complete, the retention phase begins.

Although your braces or aligners have finished moving your teeth, the surrounding bone and tissues still need time to stabilize. To help maintain your results, Dr. Kazmierski will provide a custom retainer designed to keep your teeth in their new positions.

Wearing your retainer as instructed is one of the most important steps in protecting your investment and preserving your new smile for years to come.

Why Is the Retention Phase So Important?

Teeth naturally have a tendency to shift over time. Retainers help prevent unwanted movement and allow the supporting bone and tissues to fully adapt to the new alignment.

Patients who consistently wear their retainers are much more likely to maintain the beautiful results achieved through orthodontic treatment.

At Moorestown Orthodontics, we provide guidance and support throughout every phase of treatment to help ensure your smile remains healthy, functional, and confident long after active treatment ends.