10 Second Street
Pittsfield, MA 01201
(413) 499-2862
390 Main Street
Great Barrington, MA 01230
(413) 528-4396
Although the importance of a nice smile should never be underestimated, the orthodontic specialist has another equally significant treatment goal: to improve the health of your teeth and gums. Did you know that crooked teeth and bad bites can seriously affect general oral health and sometimes jaw joints (TMJ problems)?
Crowded teeth are hard to clean and maintain and in time may contribute to tooth decay, gum disease and eventual tooth loss. Bad bites also can result in abnormal wear of tooth surfaces, difficulty in chewing and damage to supporting bone and gum tissue. Jaw joint (TMJ) pain and associated headaches sometimes can be attributed to crooked teeth and incorrect bites.
When left untreated, many orthodontic problems become worse. Treatment by a specialist to correct the original problem is often less costly than the additional dental care required to treat more serious problems that can develop in later years.
Orthodontic treatment is always a change for the better, regardless of your age. The biological process involved in tooth movement is the same in both adults and children. The health of your teeth, gums and supporting bone is the most important factor in determining the prospects for improving your smile and dental health.
As an adult you probably want to know if braces will interfere with your life style. Absolutely not! You can do anything with braces or Invisalign; teach in front of a classroom, give a business presentation, sing, play a musical instrument, dine out, kiss, and have your picture taken.
There are, however, a few inconveniences. Certain treats such as caramels and peanut brittle will be off limits. Also, your mouth and teeth may be a little tender after adjustments. And, of course, it will be especially important that you visit your family dentist for regular checkups. The good news is that the new techniques and materials the orthodontic specialist uses today have not only greatly reduced the discomfort of wearing braces but also have decreased the frequency of office visits and overall treatment time.
A consultation with Dr. Fischer is the best way to determine if you can benefit from treatment. After an initial examination, Dr. Fischer usually will be able to tell you what the treatment will involve and the approximate cost. If you decide to proceed, complete diagnostic records of your mouth will be taken. These include models and measurements of your teeth, special x-rays and photographs.
After carefully analyzing the extent of your problem, Dr. Fischer will recommend the best course of treatment for improving your smile.
The decision for an adult to have his or her teeth straightened is a major one. Once you decide to have treatment, choosing who will provide your treatment is very important! Dr. Fischer and his staff are very proud of all the terrific smiles and results that have been provided to their patients over the past 25 years.
Orthodontic specialists, such as Dr. Fischer, limit their practice to orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics. Having completed his degree in orthodontics following dental school, and by on-going participation continuing education, Dr. Fischer has the special skills required to manage tooth movement in the adult patient.
Dr. Fischer uses the most advanced techniques available today and, because of his extensive knowledge, he can select the best methods and materials for correcting each orthodontic problem.
When you consider the cost of orthodontic treatment, also consider the lifelong benefits of a healthy, beautiful smile. Many former patients have said that it is the best investment they ever made - an investment in themselves.
The actual cost of treatment will, of course, depend on the severity of your problem. We will always discuss fees with you before you begin treatment. Convenient financing with an initial down payment and monthly installments can be arranged. Dr. Fischer's office also offers no initial down payment financing as well.
Many employer-provided benefit plans now include orthodontic coverage, which helps patients off-set the cost of treatment.
Many of Dr. Fischer's adult and older teen patients opt for the new, state-of-the-art aesthetic braces on their upper front teeth for an additional fee. These clear ceramic brackets are practically invisible and won't stain or discolor.
Invisalign offers a wonderful aesthetic alternative to braces resulting in a stunning smile without most people even noticing you're going through treatment. Dr. Fischer will study your orthodontic records and discuss whether or not you would qualify for this treatment option at a follow-up visit.
Click to learn more about Invisalign.
When it is time for your retainer, you will be given a "state-of-the-art" retainer which keeps your teeth locked into the correct position after treatment. Not only are they clear and almost invisible, they are also very comfortable to wear and easy to keep clean.