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Parent’s Guide to Orthodontics | Jennifer L. Martin, DDS | AAO

February 3rd, 2022

Thinking about your child and whether orthodontic treatment might be needed at some point? You’ve come to the right place. The Parent’s Guide to Orthodontics by the American Association of Orthodontics will help you understand how the process works, from understanding early check-ups to post-treatment best practices.

Orthodontic treatment can be a very important part of your child’s oral health care. Teeth that work together make it possible to bite and chew properly, and contribute to clear speech. Teeth that function well tend to have a pleasing appearance. The beautiful smile that results from orthodontic treatment is the outward sign of good oral health, and sets the stage for overall well-being.

Questions from Parents Answered in The Parent’s Guide to Orthodontics

The AAO guide provides excellent information for parents, including answers to common questions. A question we often receive is about treating upper & lower teeth.

Q: My child’s teeth aren’t too crooked on top – can s/he just get braces on the bottom?

A: Orthodontic treatment is designed to develop teeth that fit well and, as a result, wear better over an individual’s life. Think of teeth in the mouth as a “gear” system. Teeth, like gears, must intermesh well to help avoid excessive wear throughout a lifetime of use. An ideal orthodontic result most often requires treatment of both the top and bottom teeth. Consult a member of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) to learn what will best correct your child’s orthodontic problem. The AAO Find an Orthodontist service will help you locate AAO orthodontists near you.

Today there are many treatment options for parents to consider for their children.  Parents will see a few different orthodontic providers to weight the benefits of each option.  Questions we receive are similar to:

Q: We’ve seen three orthodontists and we have three treatment plans suggested. Which one is right?

A: There is not a single “right way” to perform orthodontic treatment. Different orthodontists use various bracket systems and appliances. As long as all of the doctors you have consulted are AAO orthodontists, all of the suggested treatment plans can help your child develop a healthy and beautiful smile. When you consult a member of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), you can be assured that the doctor truly is an orthodontist. That’s because membership in the AAO is open exclusively to orthodontists, meaning those who first graduated from dental school, and then went on to successfully complete a 2-3 year orthodontic residency at an accredited orthodontic program.

Pleasant Hill’s Martin Family Orthodontics has been a top choice for East Bay & Pleasant Hill families for generations.  In the past, orthodontic treatment was associated with children and teens, but today many adults seek orthodontic treatment to correct long-standing problems, or problems that stem from maturational changes. Orthodontists can help people of any age achieve a healthy and beautiful smile.

Invisalign treatment with invisible and removal trays gradually reposition misaligned teeth without the inconvenience and discomfort of traditional wire braces. As you progress through the Invisalign trays and improve your bite alignment, other significant health advantages are taking affect.

Dr Jennifer Martin can map out your new smile using 3D images taken by the iTero Element scanner. from there, you’ll get a custom treatment plan that’s right for you.  The entire team at Martin Family Orthodontics will be with you every step of the way towards a healthy & bright smile!

A Strong & Healthy Bite Starts with Proper Alignment

The primary purpose of orthodontic treatment is to create a healthy bite—straight teeth that properly meet opposing teeth in the opposite jaw. A good bite makes it easier for you to bite, chew and speak.

If your teeth are crowded, protrusive, spaced too far apart, meet in an abnormal way, or do not meet at all, correction may be recommended. Braces and aligners are the “appliances” orthodontists most commonly use to guide your teeth into their proper positions. Retainers preserve and stabilize the results of your orthodontic treatment.
From reducing your risk of gum disease to improving bite functions and overall dental health, there are many clear benefits when you choose to undergo Invisalign treatment.

Can We Schedule Your Appointment Today?

We offer complimentary consultations at our Pleasant Hill, CA orthodontic office, serving Martinez, Concord, Walnut Creek and Lafayette. Please call to learn more and schedule your consultation, today.

Dr. Martin and everyone at Jennifer L. Martin, DDS, look forward to welcoming you to our practice. We would love to develop a long-term relationship with you, while making the beautiful smile of your dreams a reality!

Jennifer L. Martin, D.D.S.
401 Gregory Lane, Suite 126
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
Phone: (925) 676-8485

Email: martinorthodontics@att.net

 

#MartinFamilySmiles #Invisalign #Braces #Orthodontist #EastBay #PleasantHill #Best #Dentist #2022 #Braces #ClearAligners #AAO #Questions

Improve Your Smile and Oral Health with Invisalign® Treatment at Martin Family Orthodontics

December 30th, 2021

Invisalign® Treatment for Your Smile & Oral Health

Pleasant Hill’s Martin Family Orthodontics has been a top choice for East Bay & Pleasant Hill families for generations.  In the past, orthodontic treatment was associated with children and teens, but today many adults seek orthodontic treatment to correct long-standing problems, or problems that stem from maturational changes. Orthodontists can help people of any age achieve a healthy and beautiful smile.

Invisalign treatment with invisible and removal trays gradually reposition misaligned teeth without the inconvenience and discomfort of traditional wire braces. As you progress through the Invisalign trays and improve your bite alignment, other significant health advantages are taking affect.

Dr Jennifer Martin can map out your new smile using 3D images taken by the iTero Element scanner. from there, you’ll get a custom treatment plan that’s right for you.  The entire team at Martin Family Orthodontics will be with you every step of the way towards a healthy & bright smile!

A Strong & Healthy Bite Starts with Proper Alignment

The primary purpose of orthodontic treatment is to create a healthy bite—straight teeth that properly meet opposing teeth in the opposite jaw. A good bite makes it easier for you to bite, chew and speak.

If your teeth are crowded, protrusive, spaced too far apart, meet in an abnormal way, or do not meet at all, correction may be recommended. Braces and aligners are the “appliances” orthodontists most commonly use to guide your teeth into their proper positions. Retainers preserve and stabilize the results of your orthodontic treatment.
From reducing your risk of gum disease to improving bite functions and overall dental health, there are many clear benefits when you choose to undergo Invisalign treatment.

You Deserve to Smile with Confidence

Invisalign addresses jaw-related issues by improving alignment. Untreated bite problems can lead to more serious oral complications, including cavities, tooth loss, gum infection, enamel erosion and even difficulties with speech or eating.

Like traditional braces, Invisalign also corrects a range of tooth misplacement. Crooked, gapped and crowded teeth are no match for this treatment, which uses a series of progressive disposable aligners to gradually align teeth.

https://youtu.be/xrPtScpEwiE

Make 2022 a successful year by focusing on your health & smile. Pleasant Hill’s Dr. Jennifer L. Martin and team love transforming lives, one smile at a time. We work one-to-one with each patient to determine their clinical needs and care goals, and then develop individual treatment paths to create their healthy new smile.

Can We Schedule Your Appointment Today?

We offer complimentary consultations at our Pleasant Hill, CA orthodontic office, serving Martinez, Concord, Walnut Creek and Lafayette. Please call to learn more and schedule your consultation, today.

Dr. Martin and everyone at Jennifer L. Martin, DDS, look forward to welcoming you to our practice. We would love to develop a long-term relationship with you, while making the beautiful smile of your dreams a reality!

Jennifer L. Martin, D.D.S.
401 Gregory Lane, Suite 126
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
Phone: (925) 676-8485

Email: martinorthodontics@att.net

#MartinFamilySmiles #Invisalign #Braces #Orthodontist #EastBay #PleasantHill #Best #Dentist #2022 #Braces #ClearAligners

 

 

 

Use Your Flex Spending Dollars for Orthodontics & Invisalign® Treatment

November 18th, 2021

 

 

Dr. Jennifer L. Martin and our team invite you to learn the basics of using your health savings account with the resources below. As we enter the final portion of 2021 we receive lots of interest in using Flex Spending Accounts (FSA), Health Savings Accounts (HSA) for dental treatments & procedures.  Please contact us for answers to your specific questions.

How To Use FSA Money

It is important to know that orthodontia, and the most dental services, are eligible for reimbursement with a flexible spending account (FSA), health savings account (HSA), health reimbursement arrangement (HRA) or a limited care flexible spending account (LCFSA). Orthodontia is not eligible for reimbursement with a dependent care flexible spending account (DCFSA). Read more...

Using Your Flexible Spending Account (FSA) for Dental Care

Invisalign Orthodontics Treatment Is Typically Eligible with a Flexible Spending Account (FSA)

Invisalign orthodontics reimbursement are typically eligible with a flexible spending account (FSA), health savings account (HSA), health reimbursement arrangement (HRA) or a limited care flexible spending account (LCFSA). Invisalign orthodontics reimbursement is not eligible with a dependent care flexible spending account (DCFSA).

More Dental Expenses That Can Be Paid with FSAs

When it comes to using an FSA for dental expenses, reimbursement rules generally follow the deduction rules as spelled out in IRS Publication 502. The basic guideline is that anything that treats or prevents a dental disease is eligible for FSA coverage:

  •         Teeth cleaning
  •         Fillings and sealants
  •         Crowns
  •         Bonding
  •         Dentures
  •         Tooth extraction
  •         Inlays and onlays
  •         All diagnostic and preventative services
  •         Treatments for gingivitis, temporomandibular joint syndrome and disorder, gum recession, and oral surgery

Expenses That Are Excluded

Unfortunately, cosmetic procedures—such as teeth whitening, veneers, and cosmetic orthodontics—are not covered by FSA plans. If you want to get your teeth bright and white, you will have to pay out of pocket, as cosmetic dentistry is simply not on the list. In fact, you cannot even buy toothpaste of any kind or dental floss using FSA funds, as they are not eligible expenses. Oral pain remedies, however, are typically covered by plans.

There is an obvious discrepancy with orthodontia. While the IRS says that some procedures treat disease and some are cosmetic, there is no specific set of rules that defines the specifics regarding which procedures qualify for coverage under an FSA.

Know Your Plan: Flexible Spending Plans Vary

The IRS provides general rules for FSA plans, but each individual FSA provider interprets those rules differently. Talk to your employer and your plan provider before you start any course of treatment. We are more than willing to coordinate with your insurance provider to make sure the services you are receiving are eligible.

Creating Generations of Smiles Through A Legacy of Personal Care and Heartfelt Service!

 

Dr. Jennifer L. Martin and our team love transforming lives, one smile at a time. We work one-to-one with each patient to determine their clinical needs and care goals, and then develop individual treatment paths to create their healthy new smile.  Please reach out to schedule a consultation so you maximize your health savings account features.  Now is the time to start treatment if you want to use funds for a 2021  ‘use it or lose it’ budget.

 

We offer complimentary consultations for you and your family at our Pleasant Hill, CA orthodontic office, serving Martinez, Concord, Walnut Creek and Lafayette. Please call to learn more and schedule your consultation, today.  Dr. Martin and everyone at Jennifer L. Martin, DDS, look forward to welcoming you to our practice. We would love to develop a long-term relationship with you, while making the beautiful smile of your dreams a reality!

 

 

Best wishes,

 

Jennifer L. Martin, D.D.S.

401 Gregory Lane, Suite 126

Pleasant Hill, CA 94523

Phone: (925) 676-8485

www.drjennifermartin.com

Three Reasons Why You Should Get Invisalign Treatment from an Orthodontist | Jennifer L. Martin, D.D.S. | Pleasant Hill CA

November 11th, 2021

 

“When your pup is overdue for a groom, you wouldn’t bring them to your appointment at the salon. For maintenance of your poodle’s locks, you visit a groomer – the definitely-right person to maintain your pup’s coat, not the almost-right person.  The same is true for orthodontic treatment. Orthodontists are specialized in properly aligning teeth and jaws and possess the dental training to give you your best smile, making them the definitely-right person for orthodontic treatment. To put it simply, it’s best to see an orthodontist for orthodontics. Here’s why:

 

  1. Orthodontists are specialists.

Orthodontists are specialists who focus on your bite and alignment of your teeth. Their job is to not only make sure that your smile looks great, but your bite feels good and functions properly, too.

  1. Orthodontists have 3,700 hours of orthodontic training.  YES! 3,700.

In addition to dental school, orthodontists are the only dental specialists who have additional education and training focused exclusively on the movement of teeth, jawbones, facial bones, and soft tissue–3,700 hours of specialized training to be exact. They understand growth and development and are also called dentofacial orthopedists.

  1. Because of their extensive training, they can provide you with a truly customized treatment plan.

Straightening teeth and aligning the bite are both complex biological processes, not quick fixes. With expertise in those complexities (like changes in jaw bones, facial bone and soft tissue as teeth are moved), your orthodontist is equipped to provide a truly custom treatment plan that is best for you. When it comes to your health you don’t want to miss any critical factors.

When it’s time to make an appointment for yourself or your family, take comfort that, by selecting a member of the American Association of Orthodontists, you will be seeing the right person. Not the almost-right person.”

(June 9, 2021. AAO.com Blog. ‘Why an Orthodontist is the Definitely-Right Person for Orthodontic Treatment’)

End-of-Year Reminder To Use Your FSA Flex Spending for Orthodontics

During the final portion of the year many patients choose orthodontic treatment with their FSA, HSA or Health Savings Accounts. It is important to know that orthodontia is eligible for reimbursement with a flexible spending account (FSA), health savings account (HSA), health reimbursement arrangement (HRA) or a limited care flexible spending account (LCFSA). Orthodontia is not eligible for reimbursement with a dependent care flexible spending account (DCFSA).

Do you have a question on treatment? Contact our office to discuss your treatment needs and eligibility for health savings account eligibility.

Invisalign Orthodontics: Are Eligible with a Flexible Spending Account (FSA)

Invisalign orthodontics reimbursement is eligible with a flexible spending account (FSA), health savings account (HSA), health reimbursement arrangement (HRA) or a limited care flexible spending account (LCFSA). Invisalign orthodontics reimbursement is not eligible with a dependent care flexible spending account (DCFSA).

Creating Generations of Smiles Through A Legacy of Personal Care and Heartfelt Service!

Dr. Jennifer L. Martin and our team love transforming lives, one smile at a time. We work one-to-one with each patient to determine their clinical needs and care goals, and then develop individual treatment paths to create their healthy new smile.  Please reach out to schedule a consultation so you maximize your health savings account features.  Now is the time to start treatment if you want to use funds for a 2020 ‘use it or lose it’ budget.

We offer complimentary consultations for you and your family at our Pleasant Hill, CA orthodontic office, serving Martinez, Concord, Walnut Creek and Lafayette. Please call to learn more and schedule your consultation, today.

Dr. Martin and everyone at Jennifer L. Martin, DDS, look forward to welcoming you to our practice. We would love to develop a long-term relationship with you, while making the beautiful smile of your dreams a reality!

 

Best wishes,

Jennifer L. Martin, D.D.S.

401 Gregory Lane, Suite 126

Pleasant Hill, CA 94523

Phone: (925) 676-8485

https://www.drjennifermartin.com/

Creating generations of smiles through a legacy of personal care and heartfelt service!