Dr. Richter chose to practice orthodontics because he enjoys working with his hands and helping people. Dr. Richter is especially fond of treating children as he gains a great deal of enjoyment getting to know them and watching them experience new things and improved dental health. Dr. Richter is amazed to be a part of something that so much affects the lives of his patients.
Dr. Richter knows that there are some patients who are embarrassed by their smiles. Being able to help transform their lives by helping them obtain straight, healthy smiles is very rewarding to us. We are a team of professionals who truly care for our patients and it shows. Our customer service is second-to-none and it’s something we work on all the time as there’s always room for improvement.
Dr. Richter practices orthodontics at Dental Health of Boulder and Dental Health at DTC. If you would like to schedule an appointment online with Dental Health of Boulder, visit Boulder’s schedule page or call the office at 303-443-0070.
If you would like to schedule an appointment at Dental Health at DTC, please visit the schedule page or call 303-779-8587.
Dr. David Richter earned his Doctorate at the prestigious University of Washington School of Dentistry before completing a residency specializing in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics at the University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry. Dr. Richter also holds a Master’s degree for his research on compliance issues related to orthodontic treatment. His active participation in advanced continuing education ensures that each patient’s orthodontic treatment is developed and performed according to the most exacting standards of modern care.
Beyond his clinical expertise, Dr. Richter has the unique ability to relate to his patients whether they are children, teens or adults. Our casual and fun atmosphere makes everyone feel at home. This unique combination ultimately leads to a lifetime of wonderful smiles.
Damon Braces, Damon Clear and Invisalign
Today, patients have more choices than ever when it comes to wearing orthodontic braces. The Damon braces we use feature a sliding door technology that’s known as “self-ligation”. This allows the wire to slide back and forth within the bracket. There are no elastic or steel ties used with Damon brackets to result in less friction and greater comfort.
We use the innovative Invisalign System which is a clearly different way to straighten teeth. With this system, a series of clear, removable aligners are used to move teeth. When you wear Invisalign, most people cannot even tell that you are having your teeth straightened as the translucent aligners are nearly invisible. This system is not for everyone as it’s only only available to adults with certain bite problems.
The clear, ceramic braces we use are popular among adults due to their low profile nature. The only drawback to these braces is that the elastic ties used can become discolored between orthodontic visits and the braces are somewhat fragile.
Adult Orthodontics
Braces aren’t just for kids anymore. Tooth alignment can be changed at any age if your gums and bone structure are healthy. We offer a variety of treatments that are designed for different age groups – including adults. A new smile can begin today.
Orthodontic treatment at later stages in life can dramatically improve your personal appearance and self-esteem. Improving the health of your teeth and gums is equally important. Crooked teeth and a bad bite can contribute to gum and bone loss, tooth decay, abnormal wear of the tooth enamel and surfaces, headaches and jaw joint (TMJ/TMD) pain.
Good news! The new techniques and appliances we use greatly reduce discomfort levels, decrease the frequency of visits, shorten treatment time and may allow you to choose from several options. Your options may include metal braces, translucent braces or transparent aligners that can be worn at night to improve mild cases of misaligned teeth.
During the initial examination, we will be able to determine the best possible treatment for your individual needs. During this initial examination, we can outline the treatment plan, time of treatment expected and the approximate cost.
A large percentage of our patients are adults, and they agree that it’s never too late to improve their greatest asset – their smile.
Child and Early Orthodontics
Though an orthodontist can enhance a smile at any age, there is an optimal time period to begin treatment. Beginning treatment at this time ensures the greatest result and the least amount of time and expense. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that the initial orthodontic evaluation should occur at the first sign of orthodontic problems or no later than age 7. At this early age, orthodontic treatment may not be necessary, but vigilant examination can anticipate the most advantageous time to begin treatment.
How does an early orthodontic evaluation help you?
Early evaluation provides both timely detection of problems and greater opportunity for more effective treatment. Prudent intervention guides growth and development, preventing serious problems later. When orthodontic intervention is not necessary, an orthodontist can carefully monitor growth and development and begin treatment when it is ideal.
Why is 7 the optimal age for an orthodontic screening?
By the age of 7, the first adult molars erupt, establishing the back bite. During this time, an orthodontist can evaluate front-to-back and side-to-side tooth relationships. For example, the presence of erupting incisors can indicate possible overbite, open bite, crowding or gummy smiles. Timely screening increases the chances for an incredible smile.
Some of the most direct results of interceptive treatment are:
- Creating room for crowded, erupting teeth
- Creating facial symmetry through influencing jaw growth
- Reducing the risk of trauma to protruding front teeth
- Preserving space for unerupted teeth
- Reducing the need for tooth removal
- Reducing treatment time with braces
Could you benefit from Orthodontics?
Orthodontics is not merely for improving the aesthetics of the smile; orthodontic treatment improves bad bites (malocclusions). Malocclusions occur as a result of tooth or jaw misalignment. Malocclusions affect the way you smile, chew, clean your teeth or feel about your smile.
Why is this treatment important?
According to studies by the American Association of Orthodontists, untreated malocclusions can result in a variety of problems:
- Crowded teeth are more difficult to properly brush and floss, which may contribute to tooth decay and/or gum disease.
- Protruding teeth are more susceptible to accidental chipping.
- Crossbites can result in unfavorable growth and uneven tooth wear.
- Openbites can result in tongue-thrusting habits and speech impediments.
Ultimately, orthodontics does more than make a pretty smile – it creates a healthier you.