Ortho Patients - Dr. Mick

What Is Orthodontics?

Do I Need Braces?

The practice of orthodontics is devoted to building beautiful smiles by bringing teeth, lips, and jaws into proper alignment for all ages. Your smile is the first thing people notice about you. Everyone wants to make the best impression! Dr. Timothy E. Mickiewicz will work with you to determine the best orthodontic treatment to meet your personal needs at our Sacramento, CA, practice.

Orthodontics is a specialty of dentistry focused on the diagnosis and treatment of dental-associated facial and jaw irregularities, especially relating to alignment or occlusion.

Straight teeth function more efficiently, are easier to clean, and are more likely to last your whole life. The benefits of orthodontic treatment are more than straight, attractive teeth, but improved overall jaw health. Your jawbone’s proper alignment is the foundation for the perfect smile. When your jaw is healthy and functioning correctly, it contributes to better overall full body health. To learn more about orthodontics, contact us at our office in Sacramento, CA.

Early Childhood Orthodontics (Phase One)

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children have an orthodontic examination by age seven. Early childhood (ages 7 to 11) orthodontic treatments provide a strong foundation for future orthodontic treatments, especially when jaw irregularities are present, and may eliminate or shorten care needed in later years. Malocclusion (crowded, crooked teeth, or bite problems) is generally identified at an early age. Orthodontic care at this age is phase one care; phase two begins after all permanent teeth have erupted.

The most commonly used appliances in early childhood orthodontic treatments are:

Custom space maintainers, which prevent uneven spacing if primary teeth are lost too early
Custom habit appliances decrease developmental damage caused by thumb or finger sucking and tongue thrusting
Early interceptive orthodontics re-align teeth made crooked by ectopic eruptions
Early expansion devices correct crossbites, overbites, and widen a small jaw before permanent teeth are in place

Pre-Teen and Teen Orthodontics (Phase Two)

The goal of phase two (ages 11-18) orthodontics, or normal orthodontic treatment, is to correctly position all permanent teeth and maximize function and appearance. This is best achieved through full traditional braces or Invisalign® braces. The average treatment time takes about 12 to 18 months, which is much shorter than if phase one treatment was not completed.

Adult Orthodontics

Whether your parents could not afford braces when you were a kid or your teeth have moved in your later years of life, you are never too old for braces. Orthodontic treatment improves the quality of life in all age groups. Fifty percent of today’s orthodontic patients are adults. Pursuing orthodontic treatment at a later age means adults will experience the same types of treatments as they would with phase two, but face a few extra challenges.

Bones are harder and no longer growing, lengthening treatment times.
Aging tissue may cause root and blood flow issues.
An adult may need extraction of multiple teeth prior to placement of braces.

The goal of adult orthodontics is a more uniform, aesthetically pleasing smile and to create a functional bite. A straight smile is a healthy smile!

“I have had headache issues for the last 35 years. Every morning greeted me with a headache. I’ve been to many doctors and have had many X-rays and cat scans of my head and neck. I was treated for migraines and neck issues. Nothing worked. I went to Dr. Mickiewicz two months ago and his diagnosis was TMJ. He fitted me with an appliance and the results are amazing. I have been back twice to have him adjust the appliance as my jaw loosens and adjusts, and he is always very patient with my extra-long explanations. I wish I had known him 35 years ago. FYI – I am now waking up without headaches – it is a good start to any day. Thanks Dr. Mick!”
Lily S.

“I have been seeing Dr Mickiewicz for over two years and am very satisfied with his services. I have a sleep apnea problem and rarely was getting any good nights rest. My medical doctor suggested I wear a large breathing machine… so I went ahead and got one and tried it out and and had nothing but problems trying to sleep with this large breathing machine strapped to my head. Then I saw Dr Mickiewicz and he has found the simplest and most affordable solution with my custom made mouthpiece that reshapes my jaw position just while I sleep! Bingo– no more sleep issues and also no more large breathing machine to struggle with! I am very grateful for his expertise and experience with sleep issues.”
Tony A.

“I recently visited Dr. Mickiewicz after years of suffering from sleep apnea and no success using conventional CPAP machines. I was fitted with dental appliance in an effort to resolve the problem. Frankly, I was skeptical, but I am so pleased with the early results. I just started using the device last week and I am already seeing an improvement in the quality of my sleep. From my first contact with Dr. Mickiewicz, it was immediately apparent that his grasp of the issues surrounding sleep apnea were light years ahead of his peers. He is a true professional and I enthusiastically recommend him.”
Don B.

“Always a great experience at this dental office. The front office has your paperwork prepared before you arrive. Everyone is very nice and friendly and hardworking. My teeth are thoroughly cleaned when I visit. This place is a step above the rest with the right amount of class and comfort.”
Kara S.

“When I went to see Dr. Mickiewicz my jaw was locking up on me because my TMJ was so bad and my doctor didn’t really know what to do for me. This man changed my life. At my first visit I couldn’t even yawn without my jaw locking in the open position. At my last visit I could yawn and even chew steak without my jaw hurting.”
Jewel L.

“I have spent thousands of dollars out of pocket to dentists for my TMJ problems with no lasting relief. Dr. Mickiewicz was able to give me relief after years of pain. I am also able to utilize my medical insurance for his services adding credibility to his level of service that goes beyond common dentistry. His extensive knowledge of the disorder was clear; combined with his personable disposition put me at ease. His staff also deserves mention they are true professionals with a clear constitution for compassion.”
Cathleen J.

“My husband and I have gone to Dr. Mickiewicz for years after a recommendation of a coworker. Kind of strange to say that going to the dentist is an enjoyable experience – but it is! After years of having tense and painful visits to other dentists in Sacramento, we have found the right DDS for us: above average in all areas. He is an excellent practitioner, listens to all symptoms and concerns, answers all questions patiently and repeats as necessary. Gives us time to make any decisions about our dental care if we are hesitant, and encourages second opinions. His chair-side manner is relaxed and personable – which helps me relax. He is stuck with us for life! Thanks Dr. Mickiewicz and staff!”
T.P.

Do Not Hesitate; Call Today

Not receiving orthodontic treatment when you need it creates long-term health issues, which will cost you more in the future. Call Dr. Mickiewicz at (916) 469-9178 to schedule an orthodontic consultation.