Damage Caused by Thumbsucking and Pacifier Use

During the infancy stage, and even in the womb, it is natural for a baby to suck their thumb. It is a self-soothing technique and actually helps to teach about the environment around them. It can also be used as a coping mechanism when a child is feeling anxious or overwhelmed with a situation. When a child is in the infant and toddler stage, using a method to self-soothe such as a pacifier or thumbsucking is appreciated by parents because it helps with a sleepless night or a tantrum. However, at a certain age, pacifier use and thumbsucking become a problem in regards to teeth.

How Braces Work

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.

What’s Next?

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.

Do You Know If You Have a Deep Bite?

Patients don’t typically come to us because they have concerns with a deep bite, also known as an overbite. It may or may not bother patients, but that doesn’t mean a deep bite doesn’t present dental issues.

A deep bite is the most common malocclusion, or bad bite. It occurs when the top teeth excessively overlap the bottom front teeth while the back teeth are closed. It can be caused by a large top jaw, small lower jaw, or missing lower teeth. The good news is that it can be easily corrected with one of many orthodontic and restorative treatments.

Orthodontic Treatment Could Improve Your Sleep!

When most people hear the word braces, they picture kids and teens with mouths full of metal wanting to achieve a pretty smile. But braces aren’t just for beautiful smiles. There are other benefits to having straight teeth and aligned jaws, including the ability to sleep better. Poor oral health can lead to poor sleep, and sleep is one thing we can’t do without and stay healthy.