18860 W. 10 Mile Rd. Southfield, MI 48075
Patients often ask us why we have molars when so often they get removed. Great question! The third molars, also known as “Wisdom Teeth” are the last set of teeth to grow. We don’t really need a third set of teeth anymore, so they usually just cause issues. They are an evolutionary remnant that helps us better understand our history in this world. Read on to find out more.
It’s common for people to get braces at some point during their life. In some cases, after having had orthodontic treatment, however, the teeth will shift back to their original location after braces have been removed. People who have worn braces in the past can choose to straighten their teeth a second time. A second round of braces is common among adults and nothing to be ashamed or embarrassed about.
In an ideal world, your teeth should fit easily together with no crowding, spacing, or overlaps. In reality, about 15 to 20% of the American population suffers from malocclusion, or a misaligned bite. A misaligned bite can develop from various conditions or habits, including a cleft lip or palate, thumb sucking, abnormally shaped teeth, mouth breathing, and tumors in the jaw. The good news, however, is that there are options to correct this common dental issue. Read on to find out more.
Have you ever wondered how brackets and wire work together to move teeth into a different position? While there may be some discomfort here and there, you don’t feel your teeth moving, so how does it work? The way braces move teeth is that they exert a constant pressure on them for an extended period of time. The jaw also conforms to this pressure to create a more aligned bite.
Braces typically hold up well to normal daily activities such as eating and tooth-brushing. To keep your braces functioning well, we recommend avoiding hard foods, sticky candy, and ripping packages open with your teeth. There are other instances, too, when there may be an issue with the braces for which we ask that you call us so we can fix the problem. Read more to find out when to call us.
Do you often feel pain in your jaw or face? Do you have soreness in or around your ear? Is chewing sometimes painful? These are all symptoms caused by the clenching or grinding of teeth, a condition known as bruxism. While it can be triggered by stress or anxiety, bruxism can also be a sign of a bite or tooth misalignment. Orthodontics can help with this uncomfortable but common problem.
Our patients are always so excited as they near the end of their orthodontic treatment. There is so much to look forward to depending on the type of braces they’ve had. Whether it’s their brand new smile, being able to floss easier or not having to think about removing their clear aligners before they eat, there is much to celebrate. Yet, we like to prepare our patients ahead of time to let them know their treatment may not be completely done even though the braces are off. Read more to find out the next step in orthodontic treatment.
We are excited to announce that as of May 29th, we are open! We know things may not be normal just yet, but we plan to make your visit smooth, easy and fun!
While the mention of braces makes most people picture teenagers, orthodontic treatments can be even more effective when the patient is younger. If a child as young as 7 is already showing signs of crowding or misplaced teeth, spaces between teeth, mouth breathing, difficulty when they eat or chew food, or teeth that protrude, it’s a good idea to have them evaluated. Orthodontic treatments during these younger years will improve the outcome of treatments they may need as teens.
What to expect as we reopen our practice We hope this letter finds you and your family in good health. Our community has been through a lot over the last few months, and all of us are looking forward to resuming our normal habits and routines. While many things have changed, one thing has remained…
