Orthodontics

The goal of phase one treatment is to help the jaw develop in a way that will accommodate all of the permanent teeth and to improve the way the upper and lower jaws fit together. Children often exhibit early signs of jaw problems as they grow and develop. An upper jaw that is growing too much or is too narrow can be recognized at an early age. If children, over the age of six, are found to have this jaw discrepancy, they are candidates for early orthodontic treatment. Also, if children around the age of 8 have crowded front teeth, early treatment can avoid the need to extract permanent teeth later.

When most people think of retainers, they’re thinking of removable retainers. Removable retainers are most commonly made of clear, thermoplastic material that is adapted to fit exactly over the teeth. The retainer encases the teeth in a clear, semi rigid, thin plastic shell that prevents any shifting of the teeth. These retainers are typically worn for a month or two full-time and then night-time long term.

The palatal expander “expands” (or widens) your upper jaw by putting gentle pressure on your upper molars each time an adjustment is made. Your orthodontist will instruct you about when and how to adjust your expander. When you achieve the desired expansion, you will wear the appliance for several months to solidify the expansion and to prevent regression.

The bluegrass appliance is a simple device used to correct open bites (when the front teeth don’t come together) by re-training the tongue to rest in its ideal location, the roof of the mouth, versus against the teeth. This helps us not only straighten the teeth and bite but correct the cause of the problem.

The Motion appliance is a small, smooth and comfortable appliance when combined with rubber bands will assist in moving the upper and lower jaws together. This appliance is used when the jaws are unevenly matched. It works much more efficiently than traditional orthodontic appliances, 3 to 6 months, reducing overall treatment times and replacing outdated and uncomfortable devices such as Herbst, headgear and bulky springs. 

Wearing elastics (or rubber bands) improves the fit of your upper and lower teeth. Wear rubber bands as instructed and remember that the rubber bands work far more efficiently if they’re worn as prescribed.

Separators are little rubber doughnuts that may be placed between your teeth to push them apart so that orthodontic bands may be placed during your next appointment. The separators will be removed before we place the bands. Separators do not mix well with sticky foods, toothpicks, or floss.