What is the “Average Patient”
Like?
The AAO
(American Association of Orthodontists) recommends
the first visit to an orthodontist occur at age 7.
Dr. Lundquist-Tobias encourages this free initial
exam to determine the child’s orthodontic needs.
While the child may not be ready to start treatment,
an early examination allows Dr. Gail to determine
when a child’s problem should be treated for maximum
improvement
with the smallest possible investment of
time and expense.
Most patients begin treatment between the ages of
11-13 when most of their permanent teeth have
erupted. However, in some cases, interceptive (Phase
I) treatment is necessary at an earlier age to
control growth issues or prevent damage caused by
habits such as thumb sucking or tongue thrusting.
By addressing problems with early orthodontic
intervention, some problems can be reduced in
severity or even eliminated. Early orthodontic
intervention can also favorably influence the
patients jaw growth and facial profile.
Early
intervention seldom eliminates the need for
comprehensive orthodontic treatment, but it allows
for observation of growth and retaining the
corrections while new teeth come in. This could
eliminate the need to remove permanent teeth and
simplify or shorten Phase II treatment – saving
time, trouble, and money when the child reaches
adolescence.
The majority of
pre-adolescent patients do not require early
intervention. Dr. Lundquist-Tobias will regularly
monitor those patients throughout the eruption of
their permanent teeth. During these recall visits,
the doctor notes any changes she sees and advises
when comprehensive treatment should begin. There is
no charge for this service.
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Between 20-25% of
Dr. Gail’s patients are adults, ranging
in age from their 20’s to their 60’s.
The orthodontic process is the same for
adults as for children. However,
treatment is complicated by the fact
that adult bone is more dense and it can
be more difficult to move their teeth.
Also, on occasion, the adult has lost
some teeth prior to orthodontic
treatment. This, too, can make a case
more complex. But after a thorough
evaluation and treatment plan, adults
can achieve dramatic improvements in
their smile and appearance. |
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Regardless of
the patient’s age, orthodontics provide a multitude
of benefits: improves bite, healthier teeth and
gums, more beautiful smile and increased
self-esteem.
What is the Patient’s
Role?
In order to be
successful, Dr. Lundquist-Tobias and the patient
must work together to achieve optimal results. Dr.
Gail can create a plan, put the braces in place, and
make the necessary adjustments toward that great
smile, but without patient cooperation not all goals
can be met. The patient must follow the doctors
instructions so that the teeth move properly and on
schedule. Average comprehensive treatment takes 24
months provided the patient does what they are
expected to do. Patients must brush thoroughly,
floss and avoid hard, sticky foods. At the beginning
of treatment, the patient is given a “goodie bag”
full of all the necessary equipment to maintain good
oral hygiene. Dr. Lundquist-Tobias’s staff teaches
both patient and parent the effective ways to care
for teeth while in braces. Good oral hygiene is
critical to avoid staining, decay and
decalcification (permanent white spots) of the
teeth. Dr. Gail and her staff work closely with
patients to encourage good brushing and flossing
habits.
Other cooperation issues are keeping appointments,
which are generally scheduled every six weeks, and
wearing elastics (rubber bands) as instructed.
Additionally, regular visits to the family dentist
should continue throughout orthodontic treatment
because good dental care and fluoridation is vital
to maintain oral health.
Insurance
Dr. Gail
Lundquist-Tobias participates in most major
insurance programs. Call 724-537-5570 for more
information. If Dr. Gail doesn’t participate in your
program, her friendly staff will investigate joining
your program.
Background
Dr.
Lundquist-Tobias grew up in Latrobe and
still lives in the area with her family.
She is a graduate of Seton Hill College
and worked as a medical technologist in
a local hospital before attending West
Virginia University School of Dentistry.
After graduation, she attended
University of Louisville where she
received her certificate in Orthodontics
and a Master of Science degree in Oral
Biology. Dr. Gail’s office has been in
the same location for 18 years. |
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Dr. Gail serves
many patients from Latrobe and Greensburg area, as
well as Unity Township, Hempfield Township, and
Derry Township. She also has patients that come from
Jennerstown, Irwin, Mt. Pleasant, Scottdale, New
Stanton, and other communities throughout
Westmoreland County. Patients come from all around
for Dr. Gail’s talent, experience, and personal
touch. Many referrals are from local dentists that
trust Dr. Lundquist-Tobias with their own patients.
Satisfied patients and parents are also a source of
many referrals. Of course, a referral is not
required. Dr. Gail and her staff welcome any patient
with questions about their need for orthodontic
treatment.
Directions
From Latrobe and
Route 30 East:
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Turn right
at the Beatty Crossing red light.
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Make a left
onto old Route 30.
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The office
is on the right across from Statler’s Fun
Center.
From Greensburg and
Route 30 West:
-
Turn left at
Mountain View Inn.
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Just past
the parking lot, turn right onto old Route 30.
-
The office
is on the left across from Statler’s Fun Center.
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