Why Get Braces?
You might be thinking of getting braces because you want to be more attractive or appear more youthful. Some people get braces in order to improve their self-confidence, so they won't feel embarrassed to smile. Or maybe you had a discussion with your dentist concerning the benefits of healthy teeth and proper jaw alignment.
Crooked and crowded teeth are hard to clean and maintain. This can result in tooth decay, create or worsen gum disease and lead to tooth loss.
Other orthodontic problems can contribute to abnormal wear of tooth surfaces, inefficient chewing function, excessive stress on gum tissue and the bone that supports the teeth, and misalignment of the jaw joints. These can lead to chronic headaches and face or neck pain. This is referred to as Temporal Mandibular dysfunction (TMD).
Treatment by an orthodontist can be less costly than the additional care required treating dental problems arising as a result of orthodontic problems.
For most people, a beautiful smile is the most obvious benefit of orthodontics. After your braces come off, you’ll feel more self-confident.
For Children & Teens
While there is no exact age for children to begin orthodontic treatment, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends visiting the orthodontist around age seven. The first permanent molars and incisors have usually come in by that time and crossbites, crowding and other problems can be evaluated.When treatment is begun early, the orthodontist can:
- guide the growth of the jaw and guide incoming permanent teeth
- regulate the width of the upper and lower dental arches
- gain space for permanent teeth
- avoid the need for permanent tooth extractions
- reduce likelihood of impacted permanent teeth
- correct thumb-sucking and
- eliminate abnormal swallowing or speech problems
In other words, early treatment can simplify later treatment.
For Adults
The number of adults seeking orthodontic treatment is on the rise. At this point, 1 out of every 4 orthodontic patients is an adult.
The way teeth move is basically the same in adults as in children.
Crowding, spaces between teeth, large overbites and underbites, protruding front teeth and teeth in abnormal positions are problems that may be corrected in adults by orthodontic treatment. These may also manifest themselves in the form of orofacial pain and include changes in the anatomy of the jaw joint, commonly referred to as Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD).
However, because an adult’s facial bones are no longer growing, certain problems may not be resolved with braces alone. Sometimes, jaw surgery is required to obtain the most ideal result.
The health of the gums and the bone underneath them is quite important in adult treatment. Bone loss can sometimes limit the amount and direction of tooth movement that is possible. It may sometimes be necessary to have an assessment by a periodontist (gum specialist) before, during and/or after orthodontic treatment. You will be informed if you need to see such a specialist.
Our practice recognizes that adults and children have different needs, and require a different level of attention and care. We strive to provide you with that.
Interested in orthodontic treatment? Contact us below to schedule an evaluation.
As an adult, I was not looking forward to the idea of having braces — especially since I'd had them when I was in my 20s. I was diagnosed with severe obstructive sleep apnea, and the doctors thought that my best chance was to have reconstructive oral surgery on my lower jaw. The first step was to work with an orthodontist, and I am so happy that I was referred to Dr. Gobbie and his team. They worked with me and my oral surgeon every step of the way — sometimes literally holding my hand! I would never have made it without their help, and now thanks to them, I can breathe, eat and sleep like a normal person.
Thank you so much to Dr. Gobbie, Dr. Deme, Patti and Beth — you have given me so much to smile about!
I came into their office needing surgical treatment because my teeth and my jaws were all over the place. Two years later my teeth look perfect, and Dr. Deme and Dr. Gobbie managed to align my teeth without surgery! They are truly genuine people and very family friendly all within a stress free environment. Thanks to Dr. Deme and Dr. Gobbie I will be able to smile confidently for the rest of my life!
I had my teeth straightened here, when no other orthodontist could help. Dr. Gobbie did an excellent job. He made a plan and did what I wanted, where all other orthodontists said my teeth were straight. But not in my eyes, they weren't. Dr. Gobbie fixed them to my likings. I would recommend him to anybody who needs their teeth straightened.
Great friendly office that is outstanding with kids. Very flexible with scheduling and responsive when the unknown occurs. Their work is of the highest quality and produces BIG smiles!
My daughter and I really like Dr. Deme. He's very kind and takes the time to explain what is going on, and answered all our questions patiently. He also helped us think through how to play a wind instrument with braces which I was concerned about.
Dr. Deme and Dr. Gobbie have been great to work with. Both of my kids are currently having work done on their smiles. Dr. Deme explained everything they wanted to do and why during the initial consultation. The staff is very friendly and will answer any questions you have.
Dr. Deme is great! My kids love him. The work he has done for them has gone smoothly and looks really good. I would recommend Pittsburgh Orthodontics Group to everyone.
I have two children being treated by them with another to likely need the same treatment soon. Great with the kids during what can be a painful process. Always willing to take the time to completely answer questions from kids and parents.
Dr. Gobbie and Invisalign gave me my beautiful smile!
I'm so happy that I decided to go ahead with the Invisalign process. It was very easy and didn't take long at all. Invisalign is a great way to straighten your teeth and it's not very noticeable. Being in my twenties, it was perfect for me because most people didn't even notice that I had anything on my teeth. The trays didn't bother me at all, they were comfortable and I got used to them very quickly.
Dr. Gobbie was great. He and his staff are very friendly and made me feel comfortable every time I had a visit. I trusted him completely - and I'm glad I did! I'm very happy with the way he transformed my smile!
Dr. Deme is absolutely amazing! I am beyond happy with my end results! I would recommend his services to any and everyone! The environment in the Mt. Lebanon office is always friendly and welcoming!
I can't say enough good things about Pittsburgh Orthodontic Group. My 2 children have been patients for more than a year and we have received nothing but professional service every time. Dr. Deme and Dr. Gobbie are both pleasant and have established a wonderful relationship with my kids. Dr. Deme once dealt with an unforeseen situation in an extremely timely manner. Bonus: the hygienist and the receptionist are equally welcoming and efficient.
Forever thanking Dr. Gobbie for the great smile I'm sure to use everyday of my life!
My son has started the process of getting an expander and braces. He was nervous. I was nervous. Dr. Deme is SUPER awesome with kids. He explained everything that was going to happen and even went over the patient consent with my son to make sure he understood what was going on. For a process I really hoped my kids wouldn't have to go through, his experience is a million times better than mine was. If you need any type of orthodontic work done, go here. Seriously. You won't be disappointed.
Dr. Gobbie and his team are the best and most professional. Our daughter has the most beautiful smile. Because of his perfection she can not stop smiling! Thanks Dr. Gobbie!
I have two boys in braces and couldn't be more pleased with the treatment. Dr. Deme always takes time to explain what he is doing so we understand the process and next steps. I feel like he isn't just an orthodontist but also an artist who is sculpting my children's mouths into a perfect smile. He has contacted us over the weekend on a couple occasions when a child has a new retainer or recently installed braces just to make sure things are going well. The office staff are flexible and friendly when I need to change appointments.
Love, love, love Dr. Deme and the girls! I could not be happier with the service and the results from my invisalign! All smiles here! (-: