expert type icon EXPERT

Dr. Ronald Jason Saffar, DDS

Orthodontist

Dr. Ronald Saffar practices Orthodontics in Trenton, NJ. Comprehensive orthodontic treatment includes metal wires that are inserted into orthodontic brackets, which can be made from stainless steel or a more aesthetic ceramic material. The wires interact with the brackets to move teeth into desired positions. Being advanced in the field, Dr. Saffar may also use Invisalign or other aligner trays that have been designed to align a patients? smile. As an orthodontist, Dr. Saffar must recognize various characteristics of a malocclusion or dentofacial deformity, define the nature of the problem, including the etiology if possible, and design a treatment strategy based on the specific needs and desires of the patient.
22 years Experience
Dr. Ronald Jason Saffar, DDS
  • Lawrenceville, NJ
  • New York University
  • Accepting new patients

Is 35 too old for braces?

There is no age limit as to when someone can have orthodontic treatment. You have to make sure your teeth are healthy and have good bone support by visiting your primary care dentist READ MORE
There is no age limit as to when someone can have orthodontic treatment. You have to make sure your teeth are healthy and have good bone support by visiting your primary care dentist prior to starting your orthodontic treatment.

My son is 8 years and his permanent teeth are crooked. Is it too early to go to an orthodontist?

I respectfully disagree with your primary care dentist. Teeth that are newly erupted at the age of 8 should come in straight. If there is irregularity, he should be seen in office READ MORE
I respectfully disagree with your primary care dentist. Teeth that are newly erupted at the age of 8 should come in straight. If there is irregularity, he should be seen in office for a consultation for possible early treatment.

What are the factors to identify a bite correctness problem?

A correct bite also called "Ideal occlusion" is when all teeth are interdigitating perfectly. All teeth are straight and no spaces remain between the teeth. The teeth in the front READ MORE
A correct bite also called "Ideal occlusion" is when all teeth are interdigitating perfectly. All teeth are straight and no spaces remain between the teeth. The teeth in the front overlap about 1 to 2 mm and the lower front teeth touch the back of upper front teeth. About 30% of people are born with the "Ideal occlusion" .Orthodontist can create Ideal occlusion in patients.

My daughter is 4 years old and is used to sucking her thumb. Will it cause her teeth to grow outwards?

Chronic thumb and/or finger sucking at any age will cause the upper teeth to come forward and will eventually change the shape of the face by pushing the lower teeth back and creating READ MORE
Chronic thumb and/or finger sucking at any age will cause the upper teeth to come forward and will eventually change the shape of the face by pushing the lower teeth back and creating an open bite in the front. At the age of 4 you need to tell your child to stop sucking her thumb but not get upset with her .Rather gently reminder her to take her thumb out of her mouth. If this persist up to the age of 7 then she needs to have an appliance placed in her mouth to stop sucking her thumb.The good news is that as soon as the sucking stop the teeth will spontaneously go back at this age.

Speech therapy or braces first?

Some orthodontic problems may contribute to speech problems. However there is no guarantee that if you do undergo orthodontic treatment your speech problem will go away. If your READ MORE
Some orthodontic problems may contribute to speech problems. However there is no guarantee that if you do undergo orthodontic treatment your speech problem will go away. If your main concern is the speech then you should seek treatment from a speech therapist but if your main concern is the alignment of your teeth you should see the Orthodontist first.

Using teeth whitening strips is causing a burning sensation. Is this normal?

Teeth are generally sensitive after taking the braces off. This sensitivity can last about 6 weeks. If you are planning on whitening your teeth I would recommend professional whitening READ MORE
Teeth are generally sensitive after taking the braces off. This sensitivity can last about 6 weeks. If you are planning on whitening your teeth I would recommend professional whitening by your dentist or Orthodontist. It can be a take home kit or done in the office. Professional whitening will last you a lot longer and will be more effective possibly with a lot less irritation.

I am due for an extraction tomorrow and I am worried. Please help.

Taking teeth out as a part of orthodontic treatment is common. If your orthodontist is recommending extraction of teeth I would recommend having it done by an oral surgeon as the READ MORE
Taking teeth out as a part of orthodontic treatment is common. If your orthodontist is recommending extraction of teeth I would recommend having it done by an oral surgeon as the surgeon will be able to administer sedatives or Nitrous Oxide to alleviate your apprehension and make the procedure a lot easier. However , a lot of patients feel more comfortable with the primary care dentist. Either way wish you an easy time at the dentist.