One or Two…Which Is Right For You?

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Have you noticed that there are more and more seven and eight-year-old kids wearing braces lately? And if so, have you thought…”Geesh, that seems a little early for braces”? 

What you may not know is that orthodontic literature states that most kids require “Two-Phase” Treatment…an early “phase-one” treatment followed by a final “phase-two” treatment after the permanent dentition has erupted to complete the case.

Two-Phase orthodontic care is one of the most rewarding treatment options that we offer to our patients. The idea is to shift teeth, manipulate growth, create space for unerupted teeth, break habits and prevent trauma before it is too late. Children between the ages of 7and 10 are best suited for this sort of treatment.

Early treatment allows Dr. Lenz to achieve results he cannot get in a single treatment. Teeth that erupt into the wrong place or through the wrong tissue may never look as good even if their position is corrected later on.

Most orthodontic problems are inherited and therefore cannot be prevented. However, early diagnosis and treatment by Dr. Lenz can frequently guide facial development and tooth eruption and thereby prevent more serious problems from occurring. In some cases, Dr. Lenz will be able to achieve results that may not be possible once the face and jaws finish growing. 

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It never hurts to check. A check-up may reveal that your child's bite is fine...or it may determine that early treatment is needed to prevent or intercept other problems from developing. If you have a child between the ages of 7 and 10…give our office a call to schedule your Complimentary Initial Consultation.

A Lifelong Investment

When you consider the cost of orthodontic treatment, also consider the lifelong benefits of a beautiful, healthy smile. 

The cost of orthodontic treatment will depend on many factors, including the severity of the problem, its complexity and length of treatment. For your convenience, we do offer different methods of payment, including interest-free monthly payment plans and credit card payments. 

We will discuss these payment options and assist in determining the best plan for you. Our office will assist those who have orthodontic insurance by submitting the necessary information. Insurance companies vary greatly in the type and extent of coverage available.   

Most misunderstandings about insurance can be eliminated if you are familiar with your policy:

Financial and Insurance

Be sure that you do have orthodontic coverage.

Not all dental plans provide orthodontic benefits.

Inquire if there is an age limitation as some orthodontic plans can expire at age 18. 

Be aware of the percentage which will be paid by your insurance and the amount of lifetime benefits provided by your plan. 




Dr. Lenz is proud to be a Delta Dental Premier Network Orthodontist. Delta Dental Premier Insurance provides an unmatched level of patient protection. When you schedule an initial exam with our office, we will gladly verify your insurance benefits and review them with you during your consultation.

Clear Alternatives

Several of our patients are interested in clear braces as an alternative to metal braces, but aren't sure of their options. At Lenz Orthodontics, we offer a couple of different options when it comes to esthetic orthodontics, such as Invisalign and Damon Clear Brackets.  

Invisalign

Invisalign at Lenz Orthodontics

Invisalign straightens your teeth without wires and brackets, using a series of clear, customized, removable appliances called aligners. It's virtually undetectable, which means hardly anyone will know that you're straightening your teeth. Invisalign aligners are designed to move your teeth in small steps to the desired final position prescribed. Each aligner is precisely calibrated and manufactured to fit your mouth at each stage of the treatment plan. 

Damon Clear

Damon Clear at Lenz Orthodontics

Virtually invisible...Damon Clear has advantages over traditional braces. Damon Clear is part of the innovative Damon System, which combines tieless brackets and high technology archwires that are clinically proven to move teeth fast and comfortably with spectacular smile and facial results. Damon Clear braces are great because they blend in with the natural color of your teeth. They are made of polycrystaline alumina which is crystal-clear and more comfortable on your lips and cheeks. 

  

Lenz Orthodontics has a knowledgeable team committed to helping you achieve the smile you deserve. We have a staff of highly trained and educated professionals ready to assist and answer all of your individual questions and concerns. 

If you've been considering orthodontic treatment, you should visit Lenz Orthodontics, a respected provider of orthodontic care.

National Children’s Dental Health Month

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month! 

The American Dental Association

This is the perfect opportunity to teach children the importance of oral health habits and proper techniques of taking care of their teeth, gums and mouth. 

Did you know in the United States alone 51 million hours of school is missed by American students due to oral health problems? That’s why it’s so important to emphasize the recognition of this specified national month. 

Lenz Orthodontics encourages you to utilize this month to remind your kids about dental health. Help your children have knowledge in dental health with these creative ways to make it fun. 

Special Toothpaste 

Most elementary school aged children aren’t concerned with having minty fresh breath, that’s why the ADA has approved so many fun flavored toothpastes. Almost all kids look forward to cleaning their teeth with fun flavors that fit their taste buds a little better. Some popular flavors are watermelon and strawberry, but there is a great variety to choose from! 

Fun Toothbrushes 

Another way to make dental health more interesting for children is to opt for fun style toothbrush. When replacing their toothbrush, let them pick one in their favorite color or with their favorite character. Also, a new toothbrush option that is growing pretty rapidly is the gaming toothbrush, such as the Grush. The “Grush” takes brushing to another level. This toothbrush is coupled with interactive and instructive mobile games guiding kids’ through proper brushing techniques while they think they are simply playing a game. These brushes also provide tracking for parents to see growth in results. 

Create Memories 

Show your children that taking care of their dental health is fun and memorable by adding a little flare to it. Brush and floss with them, sing songs and help them brush while encouraging them to learn the proper skills. Also, there are several fun books and videos designed specifically for children to learn about dental health. Read to them and watch educational videos together. These efforts alone will provide great oral health habits with your children and long lasting memories. 

It's never too late to teach your children proper techniques 

and skills for their dental health.