EXPERT
Dr. Alan R. Heller, D.D.S., M.S.
Orthodontist
Dr. Alan Heller practices Orthodontics in Laurel, MD. Comprehensive orthodontic treatment includes metal wires that are inserted into orthodontic brackets, which can be made from stainless steel or a more aesthetic ceramic material. The wires interact with the brackets to move teeth into desired positions. Being advanced in the field, Dr. Heller may also use Invisalign or other aligner trays that have been designed to align a patients? smile. As an orthodontist, Dr. Heller must recognize various characteristics of a malocclusion or dentofacial deformity, define the nature of the problem, including the etiology if possible, and design a treatment strategy based on the specific needs and desires of the patient.
Dr. Alan R. Heller, D.D.S., M.S.
- Laurel, MD
- Accepting new patients
No results found
Is Invisalign better than braces?
In many cases yes. Aligners have several advantages over braces but cannot be used in every situation. Aligner are predictable and comfortable but they do require excellent compliance READ MORE
In many cases yes. Aligners have several advantages over braces but cannot be used in every situation. Aligner are predictable and comfortable but they do require excellent compliance in wearing them 22 hours a day.
Do ceramic braces break easily?
In my experience ceramic braces bond to the teeth just as well as metal braces. The problem is the ceramic is brittle and at times parts of the ceramic braces crack off. Rarely READ MORE
In my experience ceramic braces bond to the teeth just as well as metal braces. The problem is the ceramic is brittle and at times parts of the ceramic braces crack off. Rarely a ever a problem like this with metal braces.
Is removing teeth necessary for braces?
In many cases it is necessary to remove teeth. If you are unsure I would recommend getting a second opinion before getting the tooth removed. You should always be comfortable with READ MORE
In many cases it is necessary to remove teeth. If you are unsure I would recommend getting a second opinion before getting the tooth removed. You should always be comfortable with the treatment you agree to.
Which toothbrushes are best for braces and Invisalign?
For Invisalign any brush you like is good. For braces there are special orthodontic brushes or brushes the have bristles of varying lengths. You can also use a high quality electric READ MORE
For Invisalign any brush you like is good. For braces there are special orthodontic brushes or brushes the have bristles of varying lengths. You can also use a high quality electric brush like Sonicare or Oral B
Is there an age limit for braces?
Absolutely no age limit. As long as your teeth and gums are healthy your teeth can be moved.
What do I do if my retainer doesn't fit anymore?
https://www.hellerorthodontics.com/miscellaneous/our-blog/when-your-retainer-doesn-t-fit-anymore-heller-orth
How do braces rearrange teeth?
Wires inserted into the braces apply pressure to the teeth. Bone breaks down on the pressure side of the movement and new bone is deposited on the tension side.
How can I get my braces off sooner?
Maintain excellent oral hygiene. Take good care not to break any part of the braces. Keep all of your scheduled appointments. Wear elastic bands as instructed.
Can I drink through a straw with braces?
Absolutely. There is no problem using a straw.
Can I have braces for 6 months?
Length of treatment depends upon the severity of the problem. In such cases, a more limited treatment plan is possible, though some compromise in the result is likely.
What are invisible braces? Are they very expensive?
The are two types of orthodontic appliances that may be referred to as invisible braces. One is like traditional metal braces but instead are made of ceramic or composite. The READ MORE
The are two types of orthodontic appliances that may be referred to as invisible braces. One is like traditional metal braces but instead are made of ceramic or composite. The other is clear removable aligners like Invisalign or Sure Smile.
Do braces affect your face shape?
In most cases braces don’t have any significant impact on face shape. In so cases however braces can move teeth in ways that can effect appearance. An example of this would be READ MORE
In most cases braces don’t have any significant impact on face shape. In so cases however braces can move teeth in ways that can effect appearance. An example of this would be pushing the teeth forward to increase lip support or extracting teeth and pulling the front teeth back to reduce lip protrusion.
How is an overbite usually treated?
23 is definitely not too old for braces however in many cases clear aligners like Invisalign can be used instead. The severity of the problem would play a part deciding how it READ MORE
23 is definitely not too old for braces however in many cases clear aligners like Invisalign can be used instead. The severity of the problem would play a part deciding how it will be treated.
What are some options for an adult looking to straighten their teeth?
The options depend upon what the problem is and how severe it is. It also depends on what you are comfortable with your level of compliance. Wearing clear aligners and/ or elastic READ MORE
The options depend upon what the problem is and how severe it is. It also depends on what you are comfortable with your level of compliance. Wearing clear aligners and/ or elastic bands require discipline in order to be successful.
How do I know if my child needs braces?
Braces can fix an overbite though in most cases correction of an overbite is done during the pubertal growth spurt so it may be a bit early for your daughter
Is there any replacement for braces to get the perfect smile?
Clear aligners like Invisalign may be a good alternative. You should definitely seek a consultation with an orthodontist that is proficient in both braces and aligners.
Can thumbsucking cause changes in the shape of the teeth?
Absolutely. Not only can the teeth be pushed out of line but the shape of the palate can be distorted. At age 6 intervention is indicated. If you have already tried to get your READ MORE
Absolutely. Not only can the teeth be pushed out of line but the shape of the palate can be distorted. At age 6 intervention is indicated. If you have already tried to get your child to stop and have been unsuccessful it is a good idea to see an orthodontist. An appliance can be made that discourages thumb sucking. It usually works very quickly.
How is overcrowding of the teeth corrected?
If the teeth have become mildly misaligned a retainer may be able to correct the problem. If it is more than slight misalignment clear aligners like Invisalign can be used. You READ MORE
If the teeth have become mildly misaligned a retainer may be able to correct the problem. If it is more than slight misalignment clear aligners like Invisalign can be used. You should see an orthodontist to discuss your options. The longer you wait the more expensive your options become.
My son is 8 years and his permanent teeth are crooked. Is it too early to go to an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends initial screening at age 7. Often early intervention can prevent more significant problems and can produce more stable results READ MORE
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends initial screening at age 7. Often early intervention can prevent more significant problems and can produce more stable results through growth modification. Your child may be presented with treatment options or be placed on recall for the following year so that growth and development can be monitored.
My daughter is 13 years old and has a bite problem. What will be the course of treatment?
Depending on the severity of the problem some immediate treatment may be recommended. It is also possible that the orthodontist will recommend placing your daughter on an annual READ MORE
Depending on the severity of the problem some immediate treatment may be recommended. It is also possible that the orthodontist will recommend placing your daughter on an annual recall to monitor her growth and begin treatment when all lower jaw growth is completed.
