Normally you would have been given advice regarding the condition and development of the bite during visits to the cleft clinic. If you are still uncertain, then you should see your dentist first who will refer you to a specialist orthodontist for an opinion. There are great benefits in seeing your family dentist for regular dental care regardless if there is a cleft condition or not. However, do not let any teeth be removed without consultation with the Cleft Palate Clinic orthodontist.

Heredity is the main cause although local factors such as finger sucking, high cavity rate, gum disease, trauma and premature loss of baby teeth can also contribute to a bad bite. .

Braces use steady, gentle pressure over time to move teeth into their proper positions. They don't look like they're doing much just sitting there. but in fact, every moment or your orthodontic treatment, there's something happening in your mouth. Something good for you. The brackets we place on your teeth and the main archwire that connects them, are the two main components.The bracket is a piece of specially shaped metal or ceramic that we affix to each tooth.

Teething, the process of baby (primary) teeth coming through the gums into the mouth, is variable among individual babies. Some babies get their teeth early and some get them late. In general the first baby teeth are usually the lower front (anterior) teeth and usually begin erupting between the age of 6-8 months. Children's teeth begin forming before birth.

In spite of the careful attention given to informing the patients how important retainers are to prevent the teeth from returning to their crooked position, relapse occurs disconcertingly to the patient and the orthodontist too frequently. This occurs because teeth need time to "permanently set" or grow into their new positions like poured cement setting around a newly placed parking meter.

There may be several options. Only through an examination will I be able to discuss the best option for you. However, there are new treatments now available that are virtually pain free and much more convenient for my patients. Several of these options are found on this website. Our professional whitening work very well. You will notice a change after the first 2-3 applications with your best results after 2 weeks of continuous use.

Teeth can be straightened with orthodontics (braces). This is usually done during the teenage years, when the teeth are going through a period of growth. However, many adults also have treatment to straighten their crooked teeth or to approve their appearance. The procedure can take much longer in adults and is therefore more expensive.

Beyond the loss of self confidence many people feel, crooked teeth are harder to keep clean, increasing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Sometimes it's harder to chew certain types of healthy, high fiber foods, causing either digestive difficulties or avoidance of the offending foods. Other people may experience discomfort in their jaw joints from the improper alignment of teeth and gums. If your teeth protrude, they may be more likely to chip or fracture.

It is recommended that your child be evaluated by age seven. Early detection of some orthodontic problems is important in order to take early corrective action and avoid more difficult treatment later. [Back to top]

It's really never too early to see an orthodontist. Although many children will not start orthodontic treatment until 9-12 years old, some children may benefit greatly from early intervention around age 6-8. Early treatment can alleviate future problems. So, please don't hesitate to visit us for a complimentary consultation any time after age 6.

Most malocclusions can be treated effectively once the majority of the baby teeth have been lost. However it is recommended by the American Association of Orthodontists that a child's first evaluation by an orthodontic specialist be done around the age of 7. If you or your family dentist suspects an orthodontic problem before age 7, an orthodontic specialist should be contacted for an earlier evaluation. Not really.

Once you've made the decision to improve your smile and dental health, the next step is to find an orthodontist. Click here to find an orthodontist in your area by searching our extensive network of dentists and dental care specialists. Simply enter your ZIP code and choose "Orthodontics" from the "Type of dentist" drop-down list. Our easy-to-use search tool will even allow you to search by name, practice name or other specialty.