Child Orthodontist
Learn How Braces Move Teeth In order to understood how braces move teeth, it is important to understand why teeth are able to move at all. Teeth are essentially held in place by what is known as the periodontal ligament. This ligament is what connects the roots of each tooth to the surrounding jawbone. The fibrous tissue within the ligament that holds teeth in place is resilient yet malleable. This allows teeth to easily move when pressure is applied. How Teeth Become Crooked Genetics and the early loss of baby teeth are two of the main factors that cause teeth…
Types of Teeth Conditions That Need Braces More people today, both young and old, are currently going through orthodontic treatment and wearing braces than ever before in US history. Each year, more than 4 million people in the United States alone receive orthodontic care for one reason or another. Out of this number, over a quarter of these people are adults. This is a new development, considering people who wore braces in the past were often older children and teenagers. Now, due to increased access, growing popularity, and advanced treatment techniques, adults are beginning to take their smile into consideration…
What are Ceramic Braces? As technology advances in the world of orthodontics, more and more options are being developed for correcting crooked teeth in the least noticeable ways possible. For some patients, especially older adolescents, and adults, one of the main obstacles to wearing braces is the appearance of the appliance. Because of this, these patients seek options that offer a minimalistic, imperceptible look. Children tend to be more accepting and in many cases are in fact excited about the idea of braces that are visible and able to be decorated with colors. For these kids, traditional metal braces, which…
TADs Temporary anchorage devices, or TADs for short, were approved for use in orthodontics by the Food and Drug Administration in 2004. Since that time, they have been effectively used to treat patients with great success. Though the name “temporary anchorage device” may sound odd, this appliance is essentially a tiny mini screw, which is made of high-quality titanium. Titanium is used because of its bioinert nature. This means it will not leak harmful substances into the gums or trigger inflammation around the area into which it was inserted. Other names often used to describe TADs are orthodontic mini implants…
After the loss of baby teeth, it is a rare for someone to develop perfectly straight teeth as they mature into adulthood. Because of inherited conditions, acquired habits during childhood, and the overall imperfections of the facial structure, crooked teeth often come as a result. While some people may see a crooked smile as part of who they are, many others desire to have straight teeth instead. In some cases, there may be no problems associated with someone opting NOT to fix their crooked teeth. However, it is recommended that an orthodontist examine them to make sure there are no…
The Top Trends in Orthodontic Treatment Today While there are many different, innovative technologies being developed in the world of orthodontics, all these advances share a common theme. Every orthodontic advancement today is being designed to make patient treatment more efficient, less invasive, and with the least amount of discomfort possible. For instance, orthodontic treatment involving braces used to take several years to complete in some cases. Now, with the latest technologies, these types of cases can be completed in a much shorter period. In some cases, patients are finishing treatment in under a year! Given the value people place…
Teleorthodontic Appointments Available Now During COVID-19 Teleorthodontics, one of the most exciting, far-reaching new facets of orthodontics, is now being offered at Burke & Redford Orthodontists to all current and new patients. This telehealth endeavor allows for our practice’s high standards to be upheld even outside our beautiful offices. In addition to protecting our patients and staff, this virtual service allows our patients to connect with us remotely and from the safety of their homes during the present health crisis. This time holds many unprecedented challenges for people and businesses around the world as we all learn to adapt to…
Types of Orthodontic Emergencies What is an Orthodontic Emergency? Although it is extremely rare for a true emergency to happen while a patient is undergoing orthodontic treatment, it does happen in some cases. Any emergencies that do occur usually have to do with malfunctioning parts on orthodontic appliances or a sudden injury to the facial area. Listed below are the 3 primary situations that may classify as an orthodontic emergency: Intense, unbearable discomfort is felt in the mouth or jaw region A situation that puts the patient’s health at risk A situation which directly disrupts the normal treatment plan in…
Signs You Might Need Orthognathic Surgery How Do You Know if You Need Jaw Surgery? A study has found that approximately 20% of people living within the United States have skeletofacial imbalances that could benefit by corrective jaw surgery. Within this percentage are a wide variety of different problems that may require orthognathic surgery. We have listed some of the commonly observed signs/symptoms where jaw surgery may be advantageous for the patient: Noticeable difficulties biting, chewing, or swallowing food Speech impediments Teeth that are wearing or breaking down excessively due to the bite relationship Inherited facial problems Incurred injuries to…
Best Braces Friendly Foods to Eat When it comes to braces, most kids have no problem wearing them. In fact, for many kids, they are excited to wear braces and decorate them with the fun colored ties that are available. Statistics show 75% of all children will need some type of orthodontic treatment after their adult teeth have come in. Because of this, many children will have an abundance of questions they want answered before receiving braces. At Burke & Redford Orthodontists, it is Dr. Redford and Dr. Burke’s priority to make sure your child is as comfortable with the…