Airway Orthodontics with Dr. Silva
Dr. Silva brings advanced training in airway orthodontics to our practice. This approach considers how dental and jaw alignment impact breathing patterns and overall wellness — not just cosmetic appearance. For some patients, breathing issues during sleep or while awake may be connected to dental alignment, and addressing these concerns simultaneously can provide significant health benefits.
Airway orthodontics evaluates the relationship between your jaw position, tongue placement, and airway passages. By optimizing these relationships through orthodontic treatment, we can potentially improve breathing capacity, sleep quality, and even posture for suitable candidates. During your consultation, Dr. Silva can assess whether you might benefit from this approach.
Types of Orthodontic Treatments
We offer several orthodontic solutions to address varying alignment needs and personal preferences. Each option has distinct advantages, and our team will help you determine which approach best suits your specific situation.
Clear aligner therapy like Invisalign provides nearly invisible treatment for many common alignment concerns. For patients with more complex alignment issues, fixed orthodontic appliances offer precise control and are smaller and more comfortable than older versions.
For younger patients, early intervention orthodontics can guide jaw development and create space for emerging permanent teeth, potentially reducing the need for more extensive treatment later. For patients with uneven or asymmetrical smiles, we also offer smile symmetry corrections to address cosmetic concerns that may accompany or follow orthodontic treatment.
Retention After Treatment
Completing active orthodontic treatment is a significant milestone, but maintaining your results requires ongoing attention. We provide custom-made orthodontic retainers to preserve your newly aligned smile for years to come. This typically includes wearing retainers full-time initially, then transitioning to nighttime wear. Regular check-ups during the retention phase allow us to monitor your alignment and make any necessary adjustments.
Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment
The advantages of orthodontic treatment for adults and children extend far beyond cosmetic improvements. Properly aligned teeth function better mechanically, distribute biting forces more evenly, and are easier to clean effectively. This can reduce your risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and premature wear over your lifetime.
For many patients, the confidence that comes with a beautifully aligned smile transforms how they interact socially and professionally. Functional benefits include potential improvement in speech problems related to tooth position, reduced risk of jaw pain or TMJ/TMD disorders for some patients, and more efficient chewing. For those receiving airway orthodontic treatment, benefits may also include improved breathing and sleep quality.
Orthodontic Treatment Costs and Payment Options
Orthodontic treatment costs vary based on the type of treatment and duration needed. At Floss Lincoln Park, treatment ranges from $3,800 to $7,500, with monthly payments starting as low as $103 through CareCredit financing. We work with numerous dental insurance plans that cover orthodontic treatment and offer in-house payment plans to make care accessible. During your consultation, we’ll provide a detailed cost estimate and discuss all available options to fit your budget.
Why Choose Floss Lincoln Park for Orthodontics
At Floss Lincoln Park, our approach to orthodontics combines clinical excellence with personalized care. Our doctors pursue ongoing education in the latest techniques, including Dr. Silva’s advanced training in airway orthodontics through her participation in the University of Florida School of Dentistry’s prestigious Master’ship program with the Academy of General Dentistry. We take time to thoroughly explain your options and develop a treatment plan that addresses your unique concerns.
With our digital-forward approach and convenient scheduling options, achieving your ideal smile alignment in Lincoln Park has never been more accessible. We participate with numerous insurance plans and offer flexible financing to keep care within reach. Schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward a healthier, straighter smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
What age is best to start orthodontic treatment?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7, when the permanent front teeth begin to emerge. This allows us to identify potential problems early and determine the optimal timing for treatment. While many patients begin treatment between ages 9 and 14 when most permanent teeth have erupted, adults of any age can benefit from orthodontic care. Early evaluation doesn’t always mean early treatment — sometimes monitoring growth is the best approach.
How much does orthodontic treatment cost at Floss Lincoln Park?
Orthodontic treatment costs vary based on the type of treatment and duration needed. Clear aligners like Invisalign and other orthodontic options are available through Dr. Silva, who provides orthodontic services at our practice. We offer comprehensive treatment plans with no hidden fees and work with numerous dental insurance plans that cover orthodontic treatment. We also provide CareCredit financing and in-house payment plans to make treatment more accessible. During your consultation, we’ll provide a detailed cost estimate and discuss all available payment options.
How long does orthodontic treatment take?
Treatment time varies depending on the complexity of your case, your age, and how well you follow instructions. Average treatment times are 18 to 36 months for comprehensive treatment, 6 to 18 months for limited treatment focusing on specific issues, and 12 to 24 months for clear aligner treatment. Factors that can extend treatment include missed appointments, poor oral hygiene, not wearing aligners as directed, or broken appliances. We’ll provide a more specific timeline during your consultation.
Will orthodontic treatment hurt?
You may experience some discomfort when appliances are first placed or aligners are changed, but this is typically mild and manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers. Most patients describe it as pressure rather than sharp pain, and discomfort usually subsides within 2 to 3 days. Modern orthodontics uses lighter forces than in the past, making treatment more comfortable overall.
Can adults get orthodontic treatment?
Absolutely — about 25% of orthodontic patients are adults. Adult treatment may take slightly longer than treatment for children because adult bones are no longer growing, but the results are equally effective. Many adults choose less visible options like clear aligners for professional and social reasons. Dr. Silva can walk you through all available options during your consultation.
How do I maintain good oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment?
Excellent oral hygiene is crucial during orthodontic treatment to prevent cavities and gum disease. For aligner users, brush and floss before inserting aligners, clean aligners daily with the provided cleaning system, and never eat or drink anything except water while wearing them. For patients with fixed appliances, brush after every meal, use fluoride toothpaste, floss daily with special orthodontic floss threaders, and use an antibacterial mouthwash.
What happens after my braces are removed?
After active orthodontic treatment, you’ll enter the retention phase, which is crucial for maintaining your new smile. You’ll receive retainers to hold your teeth in their new positions while the surrounding bone and tissues stabilize. Initially, retainers must be worn full-time, then gradually reduced to nighttime only. We recommend wearing retainers indefinitely to prevent teeth from shifting back. Regular retainer check appointments help ensure long-term success.
