Traditional Metal Braces
What Is A Crossbite? A crossbite is a type of malocclusion (a fancy term that means the bite is out of alignment). Also known as a “bad bite” or “poor bite,” malocclusions are one of the problems that orthodontists like Dr. Redford and Dr. Burke receive special training to correct. A crossbite is a bite problem that occurs when the top and bottom teeth do not come together properly. There are two types of crossbites: Anterior crossbite: Upper front teeth set behind the lower front teeth Posterior crossbite: Upper back teeth set inside the lower back teeth An anterior crossbite…
How Damon Braces Differ From Traditional Braces When it comes to choosing braces, teens and children have more options than they did in the past. At Burke & Redford Orthodontists, patients can choose from a variety of braces options, including self-ligation braces (such as Damon braces and GC Experience braces), lingual braces, metal braces, and ceramic braces (sometimes known as clear braces). In this article, we will look at how modern self-ligating braces differ from traditional braces. Many types of braces effectively straighten crooked teeth, close gaps, and correct bite issues (malocclusions), but there are some distinct advantages that make…
Since 1991, Burke & Redford Orthodontists has been providing orthodontic treatment to children, teens, and adults throughout Riverside County. In part one of this two-part article, we discussed how orthodontists treat different bite issues. In the second part of this article, we’ll look at other issues that can be treated by an orthodontist, including narrow jaws, crowded teeth, impacted teeth, the early loss of baby teeth, and unwanted oral habits. Narrow Jaws When a patient’s upper jaw is too narrow, it can lead to teeth crowding, excessive wear and tear, proportion problems, undesirable shifting of the jaw to one side…
Since 1991, Burke & Redford Orthodontists has been providing orthodontic treatment to children, teens, and adults throughout Riverside County. In this two-part article, we’ll look at some of the reasons why patients need orthodontic treatment. Part 1 focuses on bite issues. Overbites An overbite is when the top front teeth extend out over the lower front teeth. Also known as excess “overjet,” overbites are the most common type of bite problem. Orthodontists refer to these type of bites as “Class II malocclusions” and they can have skeletal causes (e.g., mismatch in jaw size), dental causes (e.g., teeth are tipped), or…
Pros and Cons of Braces and Invisalign Burke & Redford Orthodontists offers both Invisalign and braces for teenagers and children. Deciding which treatment, Invisalign vs braces, is best will depend on the specific orthodontic issues of the patient. Although both forms of treatment are effective, more complex cases will typically require braces. Another factor is the patient’s age and level of maturity. For older teens, Invisalign may be an ideal treatment option. However, a younger child may find it difficult to wear Invisalign aligners for the recommended duration or may easily misplace them. This article will discuss some of the…
Diastema A space between teeth (also called “gap teeth”) is the colloquial term for a diastema. Although a diastema can occur anywhere in the mouth, the most common location is between the two upper front teeth. Although many people embrace the space between their teeth (think of Madonna), diastemas can also be an indicator of serious dental issues. In addition, diastemas located in the back of the mouth can cause serious, ongoing issues if not cleaned properly. Diastema Defined The simplest definition of a diastema is a gap between teeth. The precise terms for a diastema depend on its location.…
Burke & Redford Orthodontists has been shaping beautiful smiles in Temecula and Lake Elsinore since 1991. However, we know that a smile is more than just straight teeth. After all, an attractive smile accompanied by bad breath can be a big turnoff. In this article, we will look at the causes of bad breath and how our patients can freshen their breath. Spoiler alert—one of the key components is practicing good oral hygiene! We will also explain why addressing orthodontic issues may help alleviate bad breath. What Causes Bad Breath? Bad breath—also known as halitosis—is a common problem that has…
More adults are seeking orthodontic treatment than ever before. According to the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), one in four orthodontic patients is an adult. Adults seek orthodontic treatment for various reasons. For those who had braces as teens, teeth may have shifted back to their original positions. Others may be addressing crooked teeth or bite issues for the first time. Still, others want to boost their self-esteem with a new smile. Regardless of the reason, adults are seeking orthodontic treatment in record numbers. However, orthodontic treatment for adults does differ from braces for teenagers or children’s braces. Luckily, Burke…
Steps to Achieving a Beautiful, Winning Smile Healthy Brushing Techniques The first step to achieving a healthy smile is, without a doubt, brushing your teeth. Completing this simple, everyday routine can mean the difference between a dull, decaying smile and beautifully white, healthy teeth. While brushing twice per day is recommended at the minimum, it would be most beneficial to brush after each meal. Brushing should be done for at least 2 minutes. Ideally, when brushing, the toothbrush should be held at a 45-degree angle below the gums. The back, front, and top surfaces of the teeth should be brushed…
Braces Offered at Burke & Redford Orthodontists What Can Braces Do for Me? There is no denying that different types of orthodontic braces are not only an investment but a substantial commitment as well. However, for people dealing with crooked teeth, uneven bites, or misaligned jaws, this popular orthodontic appliance can offer incredible, life-changing benefits that are too good to pass up. The Benefits of Braces The following are some of the attractive benefits that braces can offer you: Boost self-esteem and confidence Straighten or align the teeth, smile, and gumline Create a symmetrical and proportionate facial balance Enhance oral…