Category: Orthodontics

Metal Braces Traditional metal braces are the most common type of braces, as they correct a variety of orthodontic conditions and are generally the most affordable. Made of high-grade stainless steel, metal braces straighten your teeth using metal brackets and archwires. With metal braces, you have the option of adding colored elastics (ligatures) for a…

Elastics Elastics are small rubber bands that help move teeth into proper alignment. Typically, one side is connected to the top jaw and the other side to the bottom jaw, and are helpful in creating an ideal bite. Forsus™ Nitinol Flat Spring A Forsus is a small rod with a spring surrounding it, and is…

Thumb sucking is a damaging habit that can cause tooth and surrounding skeletal structures to develop abnormally as your child grows. If your child has a persistent thumb sucking problem past the age of four to five, thumb and finger appliances, or thumb sucking appliances, can help your child stop this habit. There are a…

Temporary anchorage devices (TADs), also known as “mini implants,” are titanium devices that are screwed into your gum and jaw. TADs act as anchors to support the movement of your teeth. They can be positioned in different areas of your jaw, depending on what anchorage and movement you need. Since they essentially become part of…

Teens should begin orthodontic treatment between the age of 11 and 13, especially if they experience oral problems such as a bad bite, tooth gapping, or misaligned teeth. During adolescence, the body is still growing and developing, making it more malleable to work with. Today, there are a variety of orthodontic treatment options, such as…

Getting your braces off is definitely a cause for celebration. You can finally enjoy your new smile after all that work and effort! But getting your braces off isn’t the end of treatment. Once your braces come off, you will enter the retention period of treatment. During the retention period, you will be given a…

Orthodontic headgear is used to correct a severely abnormal bite, correct dental overcrowding, and support normal jaw alignment and growth. It is typically recommended for younger children whose jaws are still developing. Types of Orthodontic Headgear Whereas braces are permanently fixed on the teeth, headgear can be removed and is worn partially outside the mouth.…

What is an orthodontist? Orthodontists are dental specialists who diagnose and treat problems with the position, alignment, and spacing of the teeth, and related irregularities in the face and jaw. They provide and maintain oral appliances like braces. When would I need an orthodontist? Orthodontists treat bite problems and teeth misalignment. Treatment will not only…

It is important to be prepared for when a minor or major orthodontic emergency occurs. If you find yourself in a situation where you are unsure if you need urgent medical attention, you will need to first assess the severity of the problem. Dislodged, fractured, or knocked-out teeth usually require urgent attention. With minor emergencies,…

Early orthodontic treatment, also known as interceptive orthodontic treatment, is used to prevent future orthodontic issues. Between the ages of seven and 14, the teeth and jaw are still developing, making them more malleable for effective interceptive orthodontic treatment. Sometimes patients as young as seven years old are able to begin orthodontic treatment, though their…