What is Orthodontics?

When describing orthodontics, most people just refer to braces. While the majority of orthodontic cases involve braces, there are alternatives that may be used for younger children. The evaluation of orthodontic problems will start as early as your child's first dental visit. In some cases, early detection and treatment gives your child a much better chance for natural and normal development.

Early treatment should be initiated for:

• Abnormalities in occlusion, such as “crossbites” and “underbites”

• Habits such as tongue thrusts and thumb sucking

• Severe protrusions

• Bone growth problems

• Severe crowding

• Missing teeth

Orthodontics can be broken up into different phases:

Interceptive Orthodontics

Space Maintenance - Space maintainers can help eliminate the need for extensive orthodontics in the future.

Band & Loop - When a primary (baby) tooth is lost early, teeth can drift into the new space crowding out the permanent tooth that is supposed to erupt into that space. This appliance is used to hold that space until the permanent tooth can grown in.
Lower Lingual Holding Arch - A space maintainer for the lower teeth. It is used when there is early loss of primary teeth. It keeps the molars from migrating forward and prevents them from causing permanent tooth impactions.

Phase 1

Corrections are made to adjust for future growth, focusing on the position and symmetry of the jaws, spacing of teeth, and oral habits, which may result in abnormal dentofacial development. The objective of treatment initiated in this phase of development is to prevent the problem from becoming worse and correct the severity of the problem to reduce the treatment time later on. Arch Expanders and training appliances for younger children can minimize or eliminate the need for braces when problems are treated early enough.

What is an Arch Expander?

An arch expander is one example of orthodontic treatment available for younger patients. Many times an arch expander can be used to create proper alignment of the arches so permanent teeth have room to erupt into a natural position. This appliance is generally placed in the roof of the mouth to widen the upper dental arch. The use of an arch expander can minimize or eliminate the need for braces when the patient gets older.

Phase 2

The teeth will be straightened and the bite is properly aligned. Attention will be given to the TMJ, the facial profile and periodontal tissues. By undergoing the first phase, we can usually reduce the amount of time needed for braces.

What are Braces?

Braces are retainers, bonded brackets, arch wires and elastic bands that move crowded or spaced teeth into a "normal" position for appearance, prevention and function. Braces are sometimes the most appropriate treatment for correcting your child's bite. If braces are indicated, Dr. Melini or Dr. Albano will refer your child to an Orthodontist.

What are the Benefits of Orthodontics?

• Reduce the risk of injury - prominent teeth are more prone to trauma (i.e tooth knocked out, broken or chipped tooth, loose tooth)

• Reduce the risk of decay- crooked teeth are harder to clean

• Eliminate the excessive wear on your teeth that can be caused by a poorly aligned bite

• Correcting abnormal tooth alignment can help prevent certain speech problems

• Straight teeth provide a healthier, more attractive smile

• A beautiful smile increases confidence and self-esteem

• Reduce the risk of developing TMJ problems
   

What is TMJ?

TMJ is an acronym for temporomandibular joint, which is a fancy way of saying jaw joint. Clinically, we refer to problems associated with the TMJ as TMJ Syndrome or TMD (disorder). Often, TMJ Syndrome presents itself as a popping sound and sensation near the jaw joint. That's why some patients refer to TMJ as "That's My Jaw!"
What are the Symptoms of TMJ Syndrome?

TMJ Syndrome symptoms include:

• Headaches

• Earaches, stuffiness, or ringing in the ears

• Pain or soreness in and around the jaw joints

• Dizziness

• Numbness in fingers and arms

• Difficulty swallowing

• Limited movement or locking of the jaw

• Clicking or grating sounds in the jaw joints

• Pain behind the eyes

• Neck, shoulder, or back pain

• Facial pain

• Unexplained loosening of teeth

• Left untreated, the TMJ symptoms can increase in number and severity as you get older

What should I do if I suspect TMJ Syndrome?

In order to determine the best course of treatment, an accurate diagnosis is imperative. Consult with Dr. Melini or Dr. Albano to determine if your child is suffering from TMJ Syndrome. Many times all that's needed is a simple adjustment to their bite (the way their teeth come together), or a small mouthpiece that corrects the way their jaw joint closes. More severe cases are usually referred to a specialist.

The Latest Trend in Orthodontics is No Braces at All!

Invisalign® "Invisible braces" (which are not really braces at all, but clear plastic retainers) are a new technique to obtain the results of braces without wearing braces! This technique, which is effective only for mild to moderate crowding, utilizes a series of retainers (computer generated or lab constructed) that are worn sequentially until the desired correction is achieved.

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