King Orthonc

First Visit

September 27, 2017

We are always excited about meeting new patients during their first visit to our office. Your initial appointment will consist of a thorough examination and a discussion of potential treatment options. This important visit will give us insight into your orthodontic needs. Please visit this website Here:

During the initial examination for each patient, Dr. King will address the following questions that cover the basics of orthodontic treatment. We encourage you to ask questions as well.

Is there a condition that orthodontics can address?
Is treatment needed now, or should treatment be delayed until
appropriate growth, tooth eruption or other factors have occurred?
What treatment procedures will be used to correct the problem?
Do any permanent teeth need to be removed?
How long will treatment take?
How much will it cost?
What are my payment options?

While we can often answer these general questions about treatment during the initial examination, we will address specific areas after careful analysis of the diagnostic records. We feel it is important to analyze each patient’s specific needs, because in-depth planning leads to superior results and higher patient satisfaction.

Following the initial visit, if Dr. King finds the need for treatment, then you will be scheduled for diagnostic records. Diagnostic records include
X-rays, photos and impressions for study models and are necessary for developing the appropriate treatment plan.

We will then schedule a consultation visit to discuss treatment options, time frames and financial arrangements. We insist that our patients leave the office with a clear understanding of their specific needs, what the treatment will consist of and how long it will take. Also, we will answer any additional questions.

Please assist us by providing the following information at the time of your first visit:

Any panoramic X-ray taken within the past six months.
If you have orthodontic insurance, bring your insurance card. By providing this information at the first visit, we will be able to give you an estimate of your costs. See more here

Common Signs that You May Need Braces

June 23, 2017

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Braces can correct a number of cosmetic and functional dental issues. For a list of common signs that you may need braces, read on:

Crooked Teeth

The most obvious sign that you need braces is a visible malocclusion, commonly known as crooked teeth. This is more than just a cosmetic problem: It can be difficult to keep overlapping teeth clean and poor dental hygiene leads to oral issues such as cavities. Fortunately, braces can be used to fix everything from a mildly crooked smile to teeth that are so far out of alignment that they are growing out of the gum improperly. There is a form of braces available to fix every type of malocclusion, no matter what the problem might be.

Improper Bite

An even more serious problem than crooked teeth is an improper bite, of which crooked teeth may actually be an indicator. A normal bite will align so that the molars meet in a straight line and the top front teeth come down slightly over the bottom teeth when the mouth is at rest. If your bite is not configured like this, serious problems in chewing and speaking may occur.

Jaw Pain

An improper bite can contribute to temporomandibular joint disorder, commonly known as TMJ. This condition is a direct result of a poor bite: Because the jaw is out of alignment, the jaw muscles have to compensate, which can place undue strain on them and cause pain and stiffness. This can also cause the teeth to wear down faster and more unevenly.

If you think that you could benefit from braces, contact King Orthodontics in Durham, North Carolina. We provide a number of different braces systems, including Invisalign and Damon braces. For more information, call us today at (919) 246-4433.

Damon System Braces

June 19, 2017

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Until relatively recently, orthodontia involved a massive commitment of time, energy, and money. In many cases, permanent teeth were extracted to “make room,” and the wires and rubber bands used could exert an extraordinary amount of force, causing extreme pain. Fortunately, as this video explains, the Damon System of braces doesn’t present any of these problems.

The Damon System does not exert massive pressure on teeth, and so is not acutely uncomfortable for the patient. In addition, it’s very rare that a patient will require a tooth extraction while wearing Damon braces, because Damon orthodontists understand that crooked teeth are caused by the muscles of the tongue and mouth being out of alignment, rather than a mismatch between jaw size and the number of teeth. Finally, Damon orthodontists pay close attention to the way that they reshape the dental arch so that premature aging is avoided.

If you’re interested in the possibility of Damon braces, contact King Orthodontics in Durham, North Carolina by calling (919) 246-4433.