Clear Aligners: A natural alternative to braces

A Closer Look at Two-Phase Treatment

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Can you help your child improve their teeth and jaw alignment before they lose their baby teeth? This question is more nuanced than you think, so it ultimately depends on who you ask. Two-phase treatment was designed for pre-teen children as early intervention, ideally so parents could skip the cost and the hassle of braces or clear aligners. Here, we’ll look at what it is and whether it can work for your kid.

What Is Two-Phase Treatment in Parrish, FL?

As the name implies, two-phase treatment involves two major steps (plus a resting period):

  • Phase One: During phase one, the orthodontist in Parrish will look at your child’s overall oral development. This fairly broad phase can start anywhere between the ages of 6 and 10. They may use anything from habit appliances to partial braces to help correct any misalignments and position incoming teeth to erupt correctly.
  • Phase Two: During phase two, which occurs anywhere from 11 to 13, the orthodontist will monitor your child’s progress and use any tools at their disposal to help the teeth retain the proper position.

Is Two-Phase Treatment Right for Your Child?

You’ll be hard-pressed to find specific details about two-phase treatment in Parrish, and this is because the treatment itself is broad enough to encompass a wide range of services. What’s more important to know that it’s an early intervention that could save you and your child some effort. Of course, how much effort it saves you and whether it’s worth it is a different question. At Orthodontic Specialists, we can fill in all the details so you can make a more informed choice!

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 What Causes Jawbone Loss and How You Can Stop It 

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If your orthodontist in Bradenton, FL, has told you that you have some jawbone loss, you probably wanted to know how it happened. So, let’s talk about jawbone loss for a moment.

What Causes Jawbone Loss?

There are several issues that generally lead to jawbone loss. For example, tooth loss (due to atrophy and jawbone shrinkage), periodontal disease, genetics, trauma, certain medications (steroids, etc.), and even an eating disorder such as bulimia or anorexia (due to mineral and vitamin deficiencies).

The Signs of Jawbone Loss

Jawbone loss usually begins slowly. So, it’s hard to notice at first. However, there are some signs you might see that indicate you are losing some of your jawbone.

  • Loose teeth.
  • Receding gums.
  • Collapsing bite.
  • Your dentures don’t fit like they used to.
  • Larger spaces between your teeth.

If you notice any of these signs, contact your orthodontist immediately!

How to Correct Jawbone Loss

Maxillofacial surgery in Bradenton, FL, can be used to help correct jawbone loss. Maxillofacial surgery uses bone grafting to do this. The orthodontist will take bone from you or a donor and graft that bone to the areas where you have jawbone loss. The sample bone will eventually bond with your existing jawbone, making it stronger and healthier and stopping that jawbone loss in its tracks.

Your orthodontist will tell you if this is the best way to correct your type of jawbone loss.

Are You Looking for a Reputable Orthodontist in Bradenton, FL?

It’s important to find an orthodontist who understands your needs and can provide an effective treatment that will reward you with a lifetime of beautiful smiles. Please Contact Orthodontic Specialists today to schedule an exam. We look forward to helping you create and preserve a smile you can be proud of for the rest of your life!

A woman sits in a dental chair smiling at a dentist, who is holding a dental mirror and wearing gloves.

What Does a Holistic Approach to Orthodontics Mean?

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At Orthodontic Specialists Dr. Jeff Thompson, our approach to holistic orthodontics is evident in all of our services and in the care of our team. We take into account our patients’ entire health and well-being. We realize that the teeth are not just a part of the body to be treated as separate from the body. Rather, the entire body is affected by the form, function and appearance of the teeth and jaw. The goal of our orthodontics treatment is to create a balance between oral health, facial structure, and other systems of the body, leading to long-term benefits for the patient.

Using Biocompatible Materials

An essential aspect of holistic orthodontics is the use of biocompatible materials. Without sacrificing efficacy, we opt for materials that will minimize allergic or sensitivity reactions in the body. We carefully select FDA-approved materials that are proven safe for the body, ensuring a healthier experience throughout the treatment process.

Gentle and Natural Treatment Methods

Holistic orthodontic treatments tend to be more gentle, focusing on working with the natural growth patterns of the teeth and jaw. By encouraging natural movement, these methods often reduce discomfort, minimize the need for tooth extractions, and support the body’s natural alignment. The goal is to achieve a beautiful smile with minimal intervention, allowing for a more gradual and comfortable progression.

Emphasis on Prevention

In contrast to traditional approaches that may address issues as they arise, holistic orthodontics emphasizes prevention, such as our early orthodontic treatment in West Bradenton, FL. We are available for personal, respectful and professional guidance on lifestyle things like nutrition, posture and breathing, when requested.

When you want help that goes beyond regular orthodontics, choose your holistic orthodontist in West Bradenton, FL, Orthodontic Specialists Dr. Jeff Thompson Contact us to book your appointment today.