Get SMILES for Miles with Our Orthodontic Services!
Orthodontic Services
There’s No Orthodontic Challenge Too Great for Drabik Orthodontics
Crooked, crowded, and gapped teeth, oh my! If you or your child have any of these issues, then you know how much it can affect self-confidence. But don’t worry! There are many ways to fix these problems and get back that beautiful smile. We offer traditional orthodontic options like metal, clear/ceramic, self-litigating, and lingual braces, and early intervention methods such as phase 1 pediatric orthodontics. Both our Webster and Gates, NY offices are equipped to handle any situation and our team will create a treatment plan that best works for you!
Ready For a New Chapter in Your Smile Story? Give Us a Call Today!
Traditional Orthodontics
Did you know that early orthodontic procedures were suggested to have been practiced in ancient Greece as far back as 1000 BC? Today orthodontic techniques are much more modern but still aim to achieve the same result – a straight and healthy smile!
Traditional braces are very effective at correcting orthodontic issues like:
- Bite Misalignment
- Crooked & Crowded Teeth
- Gapped Teeth
Types of Braces We Offer
Metal Braces
These braces are highly effective for correcting a range of orthodontic concerns, from minor to severe. Metal brackets are affixed to the tooth’s surface, with small elastics holding the orthodontic wires in place. Available in a variety of colors or discreet options, the wires exert consistent pressure on the teeth, gradually aligning them to achieve a straighter smile.
Clear/Ceramic Braces
Crafted from a transparent or tooth-colored material, clear braces provide a seamless appearance with white wires that blend discreetly into your smile. Ideal for adults wishing to maintain a professional look or image-conscious teens, these braces do not stain, ensuring they remain inconspicuous while effectively straightening teeth.
Self-Ligating Braces
Unlike traditional braces, self-ligating brackets secure the wire in place using a metal latch on each bracket, reducing friction and allowing for smoother tooth movement. This design promotes faster treatment progress, requiring fewer adjustments and ultimately saving time over the course of the orthodontic journey.
Lingual Braces
Employing the traditional metal brackets and wires arrangement, lingual braces are uniquely placed on the back of the teeth, making them invisible from the front view. This discreet positioning maintains treatment effectiveness while offering a hidden solution that suits adults and older children. Additionally, these braces provide efficiency as they are non-removable, ensuring continuous progress towards a straighter smile.
Are Traditional Orthodontics Right For You or Your Child?
Phase 1 Pediatric Orthodontics
Our practice provides a specialized treatment approach for young children experiencing initial orthodontic concerns—known as Phase 1 Pediatric Orthodontics (or interceptive orthodontics). Phase 1 Pediatric Orthodontics involves using braces or appliances to guide oral development and prevent extensive treatments later on. Your family or pediatric dentist can identify signs requiring orthodontic care and provide appropriate referrals.
Look out for these signs that may indicate the need for Phase 1 orthodontic care:
- Crowded, crooked, or gapped teeth
- Protruding teeth
- Misalignment causing an improper bite
- Habits like thumb sucking or tongue placement affecting dental development
- Speech difficulties
- Breathing issues
- Jaw disproportions
- Adult teeth obstructed by baby teeth
Early Intervention Appliances
Palatal Expander
The palatal expander widens the hard palate to create space for proper teeth eruption and improved jaw function. This appliance is commonly used to correct a crossbite and is most effective for children, as their upper jaw bones are more malleable before fusion.
Thumb Crib
For children still engaging in finger or thumb sucking past the age of four, the development of their teeth and jaw can be negatively impacted. Our strategies aim to naturally break these habits through positive reinforcement. In cases where a child struggles to stop the habit, a thumb crib can be a helpful solution. This small appliance is installed in the mouth to physically deter thumb or finger sucking, and after several weeks to months, the habit is typically broken, and the appliance is removed.
The American Association of Orthodontists Advises That Children Should See An Orthodontic Specialist By Age 7. Schedule Your Child’s Consultation Now!
“Dr. Drabik is amazing! He’s so kind, gentle and informative. My youngest son is his current patient as my older boys have beautiful smiles bc of him. The follow-up post-braces is also top-notch! He is the best!”
– Pamela
Dr. Drabik and the team are excited to meet you & provide excellent orthodontic care. To become a new patient, contact one of our offices today!