Often, babies and young children use thumb sucking as a method of self-soothing. While it may not seem like a problem, this habit can create dental issues involving teeth position and bite. One way to curb thumb sucking is placement of a dental crib. This orthodontic appliance can correct the habit and help adjust the position of the teeth.
What is a dental crib?
Cemented behind the upper teeth on the roof of the mouth, a dental crib consists of a half circle of wires connected to supporting bands or rings. The device hinders thumb sucking and makes it less appealing.
What is the process for getting a dental crib?
First, you should schedule an appointment with your orthodontist. Your doctor will examine your child and look for signs of any problems. If your child needs a dental crib, you will return for a second visit so that the orthodontist can take photos, X-rays, and impressions. At the third visit, your doctor will construct the dental crib and place it at the fourth appointment.
How long will my child wear a dental crib?
After placement, front teeth begin to shift in about two weeks. After four to six month, an open bite will close and teeth will straighten. Usually, your orthodontist will leave the device in place for 9 to 12 months to ensure that your child has broken the habit.
When is the best time to place a dental crib?
Ideally, you should have the appliance put in position once the upper front baby teeth become loose, but before the adult teeth have pushed out, which usually occurs around age six.
If you have thought about straightening your smile, but hate the idea of traditional metal braces, consider Invisalign clear braces. This revolutionary system of clear, acrylic aligners can shift teeth into the proper position. The following questions and answers will give you more information about Invisalign clear braces and the benefits of this orthodontic treatment.
Why should I care about fixing my crooked teeth?
Not only will a gorgeous smile boost your confidence and improve your appearance, but straight teeth can also promote better dental health. Brushing and flossing are easier to perform on properly aligned teeth.
How does Invisalign work?
Through a series of clear aligners, Invisalign gently moves your teeth into alignment. You wear each aligner for about two weeks and then move on to the next one in the series. Treatment generally takes 12 to 18 months.
What are the advantages to Invisalign?
With Invisalign, patients don’t have to worry about the hassle and embarrassment caused by metal brackets. The custom aligners fit securely over teeth and are imperceptible to most people. Because the trays are removable, you can take them out to brush, floss, or for special occasions.
How do I know if Invisalign would work for me?
Most older teen and adult patients can choose Invisalign to correct their smiles. To confirm if this is a good option for you, schedule a consultation appointment with your orthodontist. At this visit, your doctor can discuss your goals and perform an exam to determine the best plan for creating a flawless smile.
Dr. Fotovat – Burbank Orthodontist – Invisalign Clear Braces at Mehdi Fotovat Sherman Oaks Orthodontist
Having a straight smile can offer oral health benefits as well as improve self-esteem. If you are going to invest the time and money in orthodontic treatment, you will want it to be a worthwhile effort. After a consultation, your orthodontist will complete a thorough evaluation to determine the best option to move your teeth into alignment.
Once you begin treatment, consider these tips to make the most of your orthodontic therapy:
Brush and floss after you eat
Brackets, wires, and rubber bands can trap food particles, which can increase your chances of tooth decay. Proper home hygiene can protect your teeth and gums during orthodontic treatment. If you can’t brush immediately, rinse with water.
Choose adequate tools
Make sure that you use fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. If your orthodontist suggests other products, like floss threaders or mouth rinses, take this advice to heart.
Avoid certain foods
Hard or sticky substances can cause damage to orthodontic equipment, so stay away from things like taffy, gummy bears, popcorn, and nuts. Eating a healthy, balanced diet will help your dental health and overall wellness.
Protect the equipment
When you have braces, you should use a mouth guard if you play sports. If you wear a removable appliance like head gear or a retainer, store these items in a safe place when you aren’t wearing them.
Listen to your orthodontist
Missing scheduled appointments or choosing not to wear your rubber bands will only prolong your treatment time. Your orthodontist makes recommendations so that your teeth will move into the desired position in a timely manner, so pay careful attention to your doctor’s instructions.
The specialty in dentistry that focuses on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of malocclusions, orthodontics allows dental providers to straighten teeth and improve your oral health. Modern advances now give patients more options for treatment. If you are considering orthodontic therapy for your self or a loved one, the following questions can help give you more information during the decision-making process.
What is the difference between an orthodontist and a dentist?
All orthodontists are dentists, but not all dentists are orthodontists. In addition to dental school, orthodontists must complete another two to three years of specialized training.
When should my child see an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) suggests that all children have an initial evaluation by age seven.
What is Phase I orthodontics?
Orthodontic treatment between ages six and ten years old is referred to as Phase I therapy. The goal of early orthodontics is to correct issues that respond best to treatment before growing is complete.
Am I too old for orthodontic treatment?
You are never too old to enjoy the benefits of a healthy, straight smile. Roughly one-third of orthodontic patients are adults. Options like lingual braces, ceramic brackets, and clear aligners enable adults to maintain their mature images while they transform their smiles.
How long will orthodontic treatment last?
The length of your therapy depends on several factors, including severity of the problem, compliance with instructions, and movement of your teeth. On average, orthodontic treatment lasts about 18 months.
After you finish orthodontic treatment, you should enjoy a stunning smile. Unfortunately, your teeth will naturally want to shift out of alignment. Most orthodontists have their patients wear retainers as the final phase of orthodontic therapy. These oral appliances work to keep teeth in the desired position.
What types of retainers are available?
At one point, orthodontists only used the plastic and wire retainers. This is still the most common type of retainer. Clear, plastic retainers have recently gained popularity. These devices also work well to keep teeth in place.
How long will I need my retainer?
Initially, you will probably wear your retainer about 22 hours a day. Your orthodontist will monitor your progress and let you know when you can cut the time back. Most patients will wear their retainers for several years after treatment to ensure that teeth don’t shift.
Should I wear my retainer while I play sports?
If your appliance fits well, you can wear the retainer because no risk exists to your teeth; however, the device could fall out and sustain damage. Keep in mind that retainers don’t function as mouth guards, so you still need to wear that appliance to protect your mouth.
How do I care for my retainer?
When you remove the appliance, make sure to gently brush and rinse it before storing the retainer. Always place the retainer in its case when you aren’t wearing the appliance so that it doesn’t get broken. Put the case in safe place, out of reach from young children or family pets.
Orthodontic retainers at Mehdi Fotovat Sherman Oaks Orthodontist
For a long time the only option to straighten teeth were metal braces and wires. Although this orthodontia serves a purpose, it creates a less-than-appealing image, especially for adults seeking treatment. Now, older teen and adult patients can enjoy gorgeous smiles without the hassle and embarrassment of traditional orthodontia.
Systems like Invisalign and ClearCorrect utilize custom, acrylic aligners to gently shift teeth into the desired position. Adult patients often choose this type of orthodontia because it offers advantages to metal braces, including:
Convenience
With the clear aligner systems, your orthodontist will take images and gather data so that a dental lab can fabricate your complete set of aligners. You wear each set for about two weeks and then move on to the next ones. Usually, the orthodontist will check your progress every six weeks.
Appearance
Constructed from clear plastic, Invisalign and ClearCorrect aligners are barely discernible to friends and family, allowing you to look great while you straighten your teeth. Only you and your orthodontist will know that you are undergoing treatment.
Flexibility
Because you can remove the aligners, patients are able to take them out for special events or important meetings. For optimal results, you need to wear the aligners about 22 hours a day.
Health
Often, traditional braces make brushing and flossing more difficult, which can contribute to dental issues like gum disease or tooth decay. With the Invisalign and ClearCorrect aligners, you remove the trays to brush and floss as you would normally.
Removable Orthodontic Aligners at Mehdi Fotovat Sherman Oaks Orthodontist
