The Orthodontic Consultation

The orthodontic consultation is typically the patients’ third visit to the practice. This appointment will take place after the patient has been seen for an Initial Exam and Diagnostic Records.  The consultation will allow the doctor to present to the patient and his/her family their individualized treatment plan. Our Treatment Coordinator along with Dr. Aleman will go over all of the orthodontic records and discuss facial growth. Our objective is to treat all cases non-extraction of permanent teeth. Many additional important matters are discussed at the orthodontic consultation such as treatment time, patient cooperation, orthodontic appliances, orthodontic emergencies and financial obligations. The Treatment Coordinator will go on to share that in most cases the brackets will be put on gradually. Patients will be given more detailed instructions chair-side regarding brushing, rubber band wear and the food list.  It is also stressed at this appointment to both the parent and the patient the importance of excellent tooth brushing and the continual need of routine visits to their general dentist.   The consultation appointment is a good time to express any concerns and address questions that the patient or parent may have regarding the treatment. A beautiful, healthy smile that will last a life time is the ultimate goal of Aleman and Sternstein Orthodontics.

ORTHO BY 7, PHASES 1 & 2…….So Many Questions???

Why is it recommended to see an Orthodontist by age 7?  It’s simple, some orthodontic conditions are easier to correct earlier. The early correction can help prevent or alleviate more serious problems later. If it is determined that a patient would benefit from early orthodontic care, often treatment will be done in two Phases. An early limited treatment known as Phase 1 is initiated in order to position the teeth where they should be for that stage in the patient’s dental development.   Later when the child is older a Phase 2 will begin at the appropriate time depending on the patient’s growth and dental needs.

Phase 1 What is it? What are the benefits? What does it entail?

Phase 1 treatment may require a limited amount of braces and/or appliances that are actively moving the teeth. This can be the foundation for a more stable and ideal facial result prior to a full (Phase 2) orthodontic treatment. The benefits a patient may receive from Phase 1 treatment may include but are not limited to:

1. Taking advantage of growth
2. Minimizing the need to extract permanent teeth
3. Avoid or reduce the need for facial surgery
4. Correct harmful habits
5. Decrease the risk to tooth trauma
6. Improve psychological factors
7. Increase compliance
8. Maximize the benefits of orthodontics

Phase 2 What is it? What are the benefits? What does it entail?

Phase 2 treatment will typically include braces on all the teeth and/or appliances. This phase will ensure that each tooth has a precise location in the mouth to provide the optimal oral health environment and esthetic result.

1. Move the permanent teeth into their final/permanent positions
2. Improve teeth function
3. Improve the facial appearance
4. Improve self-esteem

Other Phase 1, Phase 2 facts: 

The Phase 1 treatment time is typically 12-18 months.  Phase 2 treatment is entirely separate from the Phase 1 treatment. There will generally be an interim period between the two phases of treatment. During this time, the patient’s growth and development along with the permanent teeth as they erupt will be closely monitored. By working early with your orthodontist you can accomplish excellent results that can have drastic effects that make a difference later in life.

Some Of The Top Reasons to See an Orthodontist

A Smile You Are Proud Of – Most people will agree if you are happy with your smile, you typically have more self-confidence which provides a better emotional and psychological outlook.

Correct Facial Structures – some malocclusion's can have an adverse effect on facial structures, orthodontics and proper alignment of teeth can help to reduce this.

Eating – Everyone likes to eat and for some that can be a bit of a challenge if the teeth are not aligned correctly. Seeing an orthodontist can help patients get the teeth in the proper locations to allow for a more enjoyable eating experience.

Gum disease – when teeth are crowded it can make cleaning difficult which can cause tooth decay or worse gum disease. This can lead to permanent damage and tooth loss.  An orthodontist will align the teeth so that cleaning will be much easier and help teeth last a lifetime.

Early loss of baby teeth – losing certain baby teeth early can cause issues for patients later that is one of the reasons why the American Association of Orthodontics recommends patients should see an Orthodontist by the age of 7.

Crowding – If teeth are crowded out of the dental arch cleaning can be more difficult, and there will likely  not be enough gum tissue to support the tooth which could also create issues.  It is good to see the Orthodontist to see assess the situation and see what it would entail to create an ideal bite.

Protruding teeth – are often at risk of trauma or damage, therefore it is good to visit the Orthodontist to see the best solution to correct this type of bite.

Crossbite – When the upper arch is smaller than the lower arch this could cause a functional issue and put pressure on the jaw joints. Seeing the Orthodontist while the patient is still growing is optimal as it could be simple solution while the patient is young.

Oral habits – like finger and thumb habits can lead to many orthodontic issues if not treated early.  These habits are easily corrected by appliances made by the orthodontist call today and ask about our reminders.

Crooked Teeth?

This time of year seeing the Jack-O-Lanterns and their funny smiles makes me think of teeth (imagine that!), and the many stories that have circulated throughout time as to why humans have crooked teeth.  A few of these stories have included cultural mixing, thumb-sucking, and even food consumption.  In the dental world crooked teeth are called malocclusion's, and can be caused by many factors.  Some of those factors are 1) genetics- if one or both parents has or have had crowded or missing teeth it is likely their child(ren) will as well. 2) Poor oral hygiene – not brushing your teeth well can lead to early tooth loss; which can cause teeth to move or not come in the proper locations. 3) Small dental arches- which do not allow enough room for all the teeth to fit properly. And, 4) finger/ thumb habits- these can misguide teeth by putting unnecessary pressure on them.

 With the orthodontic treatment advancements today, each factor mentioned above can be corrected. The American Association of Orthodontist today estimate around 80% of teenagers are in orthodontic treatment.  If you are interested in being a part of that 80% and would like more information give the office a call to schedule an appointment.

Which comes first??

Have you ever heard the expression which came first the chicken or the egg? A similar question is often asked when patients begin the process of braces, and know that they will require a tooth replacement in order to achieve ideal results.  What comes first braces or dental implants?  While each orthodontic case is different, generally dental implants will be placed after orthodontic treatment is completed.  Since dental implants are permanently placed in the bone and cannot be moved, it is best to align the teeth in their proper location prior to placing the implant. However, there are some cases in which a dental implant may be placed prior to starting orthodontic treatment. Those cases are typically when patients are missing teeth, and an implant would be used as an anchoring device for the orthodontist.  Communication between the orthodontist and the general dentist is imperative during the orthodontic treatment to ensure that proper room is made for the implant placement. It is wise that the orthodontist and general dentist discuss the treatment plan, along with the placing of an implant prior to the onset of any treatment.  

"Orthophos XG"

Staying up to date with the latest in advancements in orthodontics and technology has always been, and will always be a priority at Alemen & Sternstein Orthodontics.  If you recently had an x-ray taken you will have noticed the practice is keeping true to that tradition!  Although, it may not look a great deal different than its predecessor, our newest team member "Orthophos XG 3D Ready" can be found in our records area.  Orthophos XG is our new x-ray machine and it is hard at work offering us the ability to take the most comprehensive panoramic, cephalometric and TMJ images for our patients. The Orthophos XG offers speed combined with ease, 17 panoramic programs for all diagnostic options and clearer images for better treatment diagnosis.  Since every case is unique, Dr. Aleman and Dr. Sternstein rely heavily on these images when creating individualized treatment plans for each patient.  The next time you are in the office make sure you ask to see the newest team member!

Where is Thumbkin?

Where is Thumbkin? Possibly one of the most popular children’s nursery rhymes of all time. It is uncertain who wrote the words, but according to Parents magazine, versions date back to the 1700’s in England.  Although the author of the song may not be known, one thing that is, most parents become anxious when they see that their little guy or gal has a thumb or finger habit.  While thumb sucking is a natural reflex for children and may help them to self soothe, once the permanent teeth start to appear it may cause problems with the growth and alignment of teeth.

Most children will stop or break the habit themselves between the ages of two and four. This is good as the permanent teeth typically have yet to make an appearance.  However, some children may need some extra help to break this habit. While many parents try all the classic approaches to helping their child, they do not realize that there is an easy solution to permanently breaking the habit.     

Drs. Aleman & Sternstein can make a special appliance that will remind the child that the thumb or finger should not be in the mouth.  This special “reminder” is pain free and typically in place for 3 months and then removed.  

Drs. Aleman & Sternstein will continue to monitor the child every 6-12 months or until the optimum time for orthodontic treatment (if it is needed). Sometimes finger or thumb habits can create a longer treatment for patients if the habit is not corrected early enough.  The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children see an orthodontist by age 7. If your child has a habit, and is ready to break it or the permanent teeth are starting to appear it is wise to visit the office before age 7.  As with all treatment in our office, you do not need a referral. If you have tried all the other options or just wish to have a consult to see if your child could benefit from our “reminder” call today to schedule an appointment 217-546-9600.