Clinical Dentistry & Oral Health

Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry dealing with the prevention and emendation of irregularities of the teeth – commonly containing the straightening of crocked teeth or correcting of a poor bite or malocclusion (physiologically unacceptable contact of opposing dentition, which may be caused by imperfect development, loss of teeth, or abnormal growth of jaws). Orthodontists use fixed and removable dental devices, like braces, retainers, and bands, to change the position of teeth in the mouth. They treat dental abnormalities, including:

• Crooked teeth

• Bite problems, like an overbite or an under bite

• Crowded teeth, or teeth that are too far apart

• Jaw misalignment

Dentofacial orthopedics is also used to treat adult patients at Hier & Palmer Orthodontics, however, this process may involve surgery. With our younger patients, we know the jaw bones are still forming, making it easier for our team at Hier & Palmer Orthodontics to control bone growth and tooth movement.