Understanding Phase 1 and Phase 2 Orthodontic Treatment With Mercier Dental

A beautiful smile is a journey, and orthodontic treatment is the map that guides you there. It's a process typically divided into two distinct phases: Phase 1 and Phase 2. These phases ensure that patients receive the most effective treatment at the appropriate times in their dental development.

Phase 1: The Foundation for a Perfect Smile

Ollie Starts Phase 1 with Dr Mercier at Mercier Dental

Phase 1, also known as early interceptive treatment, usually begins while the child has most of their primary teeth and a few of their permanent front incisors. This phase of treatment can begin as early as age 6 or 7. The goal is to address significant orthodontic issues early to prevent them from becoming more severe.

During this phase, Dr. Marc Mercier and his team at Mercier Dental in New Albany focus on creating a foundation for a lifetime of beautiful smiles. This can include guiding the growth of the jaw, correcting bad oral habits, and making room for future permanent teeth.

Phase 2 Orthodontic Treatment

Phase 2: Perfecting the Smile

After a resting period, Phase 2 begins, typically when most permanent teeth have erupted. This stage usually involves full upper and lower braces or aligners to perfect the alignment of the teeth and bite. The objective here is not just cosmetic; a properly aligned bite means better chewing functionality and overall oral health. Phase 2 is about fine-tuning the results from Phase 1, ensuring each tooth is in the correct place for a harmonious and functional bite. This phase usually lasts on average about 24 months, but this can vary depending on individual needs.

Taking the First Step

The journey to a perfect smile starts with a consultation. Dr. Marc Mercier is not only a skilled general dentist but also has extensive experience in orthodontic care. At Mercier Dental, the team is dedicated to providing personalized and compassionate care for every patient.

Voted Best Dentist

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Ready to start your journey to a perfect smile? Contact Mercier Dental today to set up an orthodontic consultation. Whether you or your loved ones are just beginning your dental journey or are ready for Phase 2, Dr. Mercier and his team are here to guide you. Call us at (662)534- 5252 or visit our office in New Albany to schedule your visit. Let's embrace the path to a beautiful, healthy smile together!

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The Unsung Heroes of Your Smile: Celebrating Dental Assistants at Mercier Dental

Beverly Lang & Cori Taylor have been assisting Mercier Dental for a combined 28 years!

Welcome to another post on the Mercier Dental blog! Today, we're shining the spotlight on a group of professionals who play a crucial role in your dental health and comfort, yet often fly under the radar: our dental assistants. Beyond their welcoming smiles and the calming presence they offer in the dental chair, dental assistants do a myriad of tasks that might surprise you. Let's dive into some fun and fascinating facts about what dental assistants do behind the scenes at Mercier Dental.

1. Master Organizers and Preppers

Did you know that dental assistants are the wizards behind the curtain, ensuring that your dental appointments run smoothly? They are responsible for sterilizing and preparing the instruments and treatment rooms, making sure everything is in tip-top shape for your visit. It's like setting the stage for a play where every prop needs to be in its right place, and our dental assistants ensure a five-star performance every time.

2. Dental Detectives

Yes, you read that right! Dental assistants often play a detective role, gathering crucial information before the dentist takes the stage. They take and develop dental x-rays (radiographs), which are essential for diagnosing hidden dental issues. Think of them as the Sherlock Holmes of the dental world, uncovering the mysteries hidden within your smile.

3. The Artists of Impression Taking/Scanning

Creating a perfect dental impression is an art, and our dental assistants are the artists. Whether it's for a crown, a bridge, or an occlusal guard, dental assistants have the skilled hands that capture the unique details of your mouth. This task requires a keen eye for detail and a gentle touch—qualities that our dental assistants have in spades.

4. Educators at Heart

One of the lesser-known roles of dental assistants is that of an educator. They take the time to teach patients about proper oral hygiene techniques, such as the best way to brush and floss, and provide advice on maintaining a healthy smile. They're not just about care within the clinic; they're about empowering you with knowledge to take care of your smile at home too.

5. The Ultimate Comfort Providers

Last but certainly not least, dental assistants are the masters of comfort. They have a knack for making patients feel at ease, whether it's by offering a reassuring smile, engaging in light conversation, or explaining what each step of the procedure entails. For many patients, the dental assistant's support makes all the difference in transforming a dental visit from something daunting to a positive experience.

Final Thoughts

At Mercier Dental, we know that our dental assistants are indispensable members of our team. They wear many hats and do so with a smile, ensuring that our patients receive the best care possible. So, next time you're in for a visit, remember to give a little extra thanks to these unsung heroes of your smile. They do so much more than you might think, and we couldn't do it without them!

We hope you enjoyed these fun facts about dental assistants. Stay tuned for more insights and behind-the-scenes looks at the dental world from Mercier Dental. Here's to healthy smiles and the incredible people who help maintain them!

Unveiling the Magic Behind Perfect Smiles: The Power of Dental Veneers

In the world of dentistry, there's a transformative solution that's been quietly crafting the perfect smiles you admire on silver screens and magazine covers: dental veneers. At Mercier Dental, we're here to unveil the magic behind these marvels of cosmetic dentistry and how they can redefine your smile and, indeed, your confidence.

What Are Dental Veneers?

Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells crafted from tooth-colored materials designed to cover the front surface of teeth. They are the architects of aesthetic perfection, offering a revolutionary way to correct various dental issues such as discoloration, chips, gaps, or misalignment. With veneers, achieving a flawless, durable smile is not just a possibility—it's a reality.

The Transformative Benefits of Veneers

Veneers are not just about aesthetics; they offer substantial protective benefits and can be a long-term investment in your dental health. Here's how they can transform your oral health and beauty:

• Aesthetic Correction: Whether it's severe discoloration, minor misalignments, or unsightly gaps, veneers provide a stunning and immediate transformation.

• Durability: Made from materials that mimic the strength of tooth enamel, veneers are incredibly resilient and can last over a decade with proper care.

• Minimal Invasiveness: Unlike other dental procedures, veneers require minimal removal of the existing tooth structure, preserving more of your natural tooth.

The Journey to Your Dream Smile

Embarking on the journey to your dream smile with dental veneers involves a few key steps:

1. Consultation: Your transformation begins with a consultation at Mercier Dental. Our team will assess your dental health and discuss your aesthetic goals.

2. Customization: Veneers are tailored to fit your teeth perfectly, ensuring they look natural and meet your expectations in terms of shape, size, and color.

3. Transformation: The final step is the application of your veneers, a process that transforms your smile and boosts your confidence.

Why Choose Mercier Dental for Your Veneers?

At Mercier Dental, we understand the impact a smile can have on your confidence and quality of life. Our dedicated team is committed to providing personalized care and crafting veneers that enhance your natural beauty. With state-of-the-art technology and a passion for cosmetic dentistry, we ensure a comfortable, rewarding experience from consultation to reveal. Real Patients, Real Results.

Ready to Transform Your Smile?

If you're dreaming of a brighter, more beautiful smile, dental veneers could be the solution you've been searching for. We invite you to discover how Mercier Dental can help you achieve your perfect smile. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step towards the confidence that comes with a flawless smile.

Your dream smile awaits, and at Mercier Dental, we're here to bring that dream to life. Let's embark on this transformative journey together.

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