When you think of orthodontics, you might picture metal brackets and clinical waiting rooms. But if you walk into any of the five Innovative Orthodontics locations across Missouri, you’ll find something entirely different. You might smell fresh-baked cookies, hear laughter from the game room, or see a team member greeting a patient like an old friend.
But behind the fun atmosphere and the “family first” approach lies a rigorous commitment to clinical excellence. Orthodontics is a field that evolves rapidly. To provide the best results, a practice cannot rely on the methods of yesterday.
At Innovative Orthodontics, staying ahead isn’t just about having the newest gadgets; it is about combining state-of-the-art technology with established medical science and a deep-rooted commitment to the community. From Cape Girardeau to Poplar Bluff, here is how Dr. Terry Spence and Dr. Jennifer Burzynski are redefining what it means to straighten teeth in the modern age.
Key Takeaways
- Commitment to Innovation: Innovative Orthodontics blends cutting-edge technology with proven medical science to deliver superior results.
- Community-Focused Care: Dr. Terry Spence and Dr. Jennifer Burzynski are dedicated to serving the communities of Cape Girardeau and Poplar Bluff with personalized, compassionate care.
- Redefining Orthodontics: Their approach underscores a balance between modern advancements and a patient-centered philosophy, ensuring a seamless and effective orthodontic experience.
Aligning with the Giants of Orthodontics
In an era of “do-it-yourself” teeth straightening kits and quick-fix promises, true expertise is more valuable than ever. To ensure patient safety and long-term oral health, top-tier clinics align their protocols with the highest standards set by national governing bodies.
Innovative Orthodontics strictly adheres to the clinical guidelines established by the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO). A prime example of this is the clinic’s approach to early intervention.
The “Age Seven” Guideline
The AAO recommends that every child get an orthodontic check-up no later than age seven. While most children won’t need braces at this age, this specific developmental window allows orthodontists to spot subtle issues with jaw growth and emerging teeth.
Dr. Spence and Dr. Burzynski apply this guideline through their robust Early Orthodontics program. By evaluating patients at age seven, they can implement “Phase One” treatments—such as palatal expanders—to guide jaw growth.
This proactive alignment with AAO standards often prevents the need for tooth extractions or jaw surgery later in life, proving that staying ahead often means starting early.
Tech-Forward Care with a Human Touch
Technology in orthodontics has shifted from analog to digital, and Innovative Orthodontics has fully embraced this transformation.
However, they operate on a core philosophy: technology should not replace the human touch; it should enhance it.
Saying Goodbye to “Goop”
One of the most significant advancements adopted by the practice is the iTero Digital Impression System. For decades, patients had to endure uncomfortable, gag-inducing trays of putty to get an impression of their teeth.
Innovative Orthodontics uses the iTero scanner to take thousands of pictures of the teeth per second, rendering a highly accurate 3D model of the patient’s mouth. This isn’t just about comfort; it is about precision.
Digital scans result in better-fitting appliances and allow patients to see a simulation of their future smile before treatment even begins.
Precision with KLOwen and Invisalign
The clinic also utilizes KLOwen digital braces and provides Invisalign Clear Aligners. These tools allow for custom-tailored treatment plans that move teeth more efficiently than generic bracket systems.
By leveraging these advanced tools, Dr. Spence and his team can often reduce total treatment time, meaning patients spend less time in the chair and more time enjoying their lives.
A Philosophy of Personalized Patient Care
While technology drives the clinical side, the patient experience is driven by a simple motto: “Orthodontic Care That Feels Like Family.”
In a healthcare landscape that often feels transactional, Innovative Orthodontics prioritizes relationships. This is evident in their unique service offerings that go far beyond tooth movement.
Expertise rooted in Continuous Education
A practice is only as good as its doctors. Dr. Terry Spence and Dr. Jennifer Burzynski are not just practitioners; they are lifelong learners who view their education as a continuous journey.
Dr. Spence, who has been practicing since 2000, was voted “Student of the Year” by his classmates during his doctoral training and earned a Master of Dental Science. He actively attends continuing education seminars to stay on the cutting edge of orthodontic methods.
Dr. Burzynski brings a wealth of specialized knowledge, holding both a certificate and a Master of Science degree in orthodontics from Ohio State University. Their combined expertise ensures that whether a patient needs simple aesthetic alignment or complex surgical orthodontics, they are in capable hands.
Community Engagement as a Core Value
True leadership in the medical field extends beyond the walls of the clinic. Innovative Orthodontics has built a reputation for deep community involvement.
Dr. Spence is an active member of the Oral Health Coalition, an organization dedicated to improving dental health for children in the area. Furthermore, the team has participated in the Missouri Mission of Mercy (MOMOM), a large-scale dental clinic that provides free oral healthcare to patients who cannot afford it.
In a newsletter feature by TP Orthodontics, Dr. Spence described the experience of treating patients with severe decay who were too embarrassed to smile. “Following the work though… lots of smiles!” he noted. This dedication to service reinforces the clinic’s standing as a pillar of the Missouri community.
FAQ: The Innovative Difference
Q: Do I really need to see an orthodontist at age seven?
A: Yes. Following AAO guidelines, screening at age seven allows doctors to catch developmental issues early. While treatment may not start immediately, monitoring growth can prevent complex surgeries later.
Q:Is digital scanning really better than putty impressions?
A: Absolutely. Digital scanning with iTero is more comfortable for the patient and provides a more accurate map of the teeth, leading to better-fitting retainers and aligners.
Q: Does Innovative Orthodontics only treat children?
A: No. The practice sees a high volume of adult patients. With discreet options like Invisalign and clear braces, it has never been easier for adults to improve their smiles without the “metal mouth” look.
Moving Forward with Confidence
Staying ahead in orthodontics requires a delicate balance. It demands the adoption of cutting-edge AI and digital tools, strict adherence to the medical standards set by the ADA and AAO, and a soft touch that makes patients feel at home.
Innovative Orthodontics has mastered this balance. By combining clinical precision with a fun, family-oriented atmosphere—complete with fresh-baked cookies and school shuttles—they have changed the way Missouri families experience dental care.
If you are ready to experience the difference that advanced technology and genuine care can make, we invite you to learn more about our team or visit our website to schedule your complimentary consultation.
Author Bio
Dr. Terry Spence is a renowned orthodontist in Cape Girardeau, MO, known for his leadership in the Oral Health Coalition and commitment to community service. You can view his professional medical profile on WebMD.