A Perfect Smile Orthodontics

McAllen Orthodontist providing Braces & Invisalign

Call: 956.630.6166
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A Perfect Smile for the New Year!

Happy New Year From All of us at A Perfect Smile!

What will you resolve to do in 2021? Usually, resolutions include things like eating less or getting in shape, but this year, why not try something different? If you’ve ever wanted a beautiful and healthy smile, there’s no time like the present! As parents, we tend to always put our children first, but if you are not satisfied with your smile, we can help you too!

Very kind people! The entire staff are always so helpful & friendly. It feels good to walk into a place where everyone is always smiling no matter what kind of day they are having. I would highly recommend this place to all my friends & family.” – M.D.

At A Perfect Smile Orthodontics, we can help you to realize your resolution by offering the best possible care at affordable prices in a warm and caring environment. Our mission is to provide the highest quality orthodontic care for our patients and ensure that every guest has a positive and enjoyable experience every time they visit our practice!

We treat children and adults of all ages, and strive to make you feel at home. Our friendly and compassionate staff go the extra mile to make sure your visits are pleasant and pain-free.

Get Started Now!

Call us at 956.630.6166, or complete the form below and we will contact you! 

Dr. Taylor and Dr. Moura are here to help you achieve your 2021 goals! We offer a wide variety of options for braces, some of which are invisible! We have many finance plans and accept insurance. Additionally, we provide a FREE, no obligation consultation to go over all options available to you! We are committed to helping you select what works best for you or your family members.

Oral Health Impacts Overall Health

You may not be aware, but there are significant health benefits to having well aligned teeth and jaws. In addition to affecting physical health, it also affects mental health. Malocclusion can cause oral health issues which can affect your overall health especially as you start to get older. Everybody knows about the importance of good oral hygiene and regular dental visits. But misaligned teeth can cause a lot of dental problems including:

  • Increased plaque and decay. Crowded or misaligned teeth can constantly trap food particles in small cracks and crevices. Even with brushing and flossing, it can be difficult to get into those tiny areas, which can lead to cavities and more expensive and time- consuming dental procedures.
  • Gum disease. There are different stages to gum disease, which can cause major problems with oral health, which also affects overall health.
  • Jaw disorders and pain. If the jaw or teeth are not aligned properly, you may experience chronic headaches, jaw popping, and TMJ.
  • Speech problems. The tongue has as much to do with speech as the voice. If your tongue is hampered by teeth that restrict its movement, you may have trouble annunciating, or speak with a lisp.
  • Breathing problems. Depending on the severity of malocclusion, your ability to breathe properly can be affected. This, in and of itself, can cause health problems too.
  • Not being able to properly digest food. If you can’t chew well because of a misaligned bite, you may not be breaking down your food well which can lead to digestive issues.
  • Facial asymmetry if the upper and lower jaw are not aligning properly.

Dr. Taylor, your enthusiasm surpasses our passive culture. I have never been to a facility of any kind in which ALL OF THE STAFF are upbeat. I know this is because of you!”

Self Esteem and Self-Confidence

Unfortunately, both kids and adults can experience self-esteem issues if they are embarrassed by their smile. Teenagers can be particularly brutal to kids that have orthodontic issues. Adults can experience problems too with the way they feel about themselves, and it’s not uncommon for anyone with crooked teeth to find themselves smiling with their mouths closed, or covering their mouths with their hand when speaking, smiling, laughing, or eating in public.

Free Consultation! 

Here at A Perfect Smile, we strive to make it as easy and feasible as possible for you to get the smile you’ve always dreamed of. We offer payment options to fit just about every budget, because it is our mission to provide both exceptional and affordable orthodontic treatment. We accept insurance and will be happy to check with your provider to see if you have orthodontic benefits. Even if you do not, we offer in-house financing with low monthly payments. We also accept Care Credit.

What I loved the best was that they really do care about every step of the treatment, even uneventful things happening during treatment, and the consultation coordination with your dentist if need be. Now that is truly a caring orthodontist.” – Melissa M

At your free consultation, we will provide a thorough examination including x-rays. Once this is completed, we’ll sit down with you and go over the various options for braces depending on your situation and budget, and can give you a price quote as well. In addition to offering traditional braces and clear, ceramic braces, we also offer Invisalign, which is a method of straightening teeth that is virtually invisible. In fact, Dr. Taylor is an Elite status Invisalign provider and has treated hundreds of patients, some of whom that were told previously that they weren’t a candidate for Invisalign. This is a common option for adults, since your “braces” are invisible, even at close range.

Give us a call today for your FREE consultation, and make 2021 the year that you realize your dream of a perfect and beautiful smile! 

Get Started Now!

Call us at 956.630.6166, or complete the form below now!

 

December 29, 2020 By Lisa Kay Leave a Comment

Caring For Your Braces During The Holidays

The holidays are upon us again, which for most of us means family, fun and food. It is the time of the year we look forward to most, especially after the year we’ve just been through. Even if you are celebrating on a lower scale, it is important to remember to take extra care with your braces during the holiday season. 

If you have been reluctant to maintain your regular orthodontic visits, we strongly recommend you plan to visit our office before the holiday festivities. It is our responsibility to ensure that your braces are in good condition, and doing the job they were meant to. The last thing you want or need is unnecessary pain or discomfort while you are celebrating, plus, we would love to see your smiling face! 

A Friendly Reminder on Caring for Your Teeth Throughout the Holidays

You likely already know the foods and drinks to avoid and those won’t change over the holidays; there will just be so much more of them to resist!  
We would just like to kindly remind you of the things that are best avoided, some more than others.  Here are our suggestions:

Must Avoid:

  • Hard candies- beside the sugar being bad for your teeth and braces, it is also possible for the candies to damage your braces or wires. Unfortunately, this does include candy canes! You can break them off into little pieces and suck on them, but it is not a good idea to bite into them or try and chew. 
  • Sticky treats – The gooey, yummy stuff that can wreck havoc on your braces such as, gum, caramel, peanut butter, toffy, etc.
  • Non-edible objects – often in times of stress, out of habit we chew on things not meant for our mouths such as pens or fingernails. It is easy to do this without even realizing we are, so please be mindful of what you are putting into your mouth. 
  • Nuts and Seedy foods – nuts, chips, fruit containing seeds, any food that can leave small hard pieces in your mouth and between your wires and teeth.
  • Harder, crunchier fare – Raw fruits and vegetables should not be bitten into. Instead, cut into little pieces and enjoy!
  • Jerky, hard bread and snacks. 
  • Ice – Don’t crunch on the ice! This is a frequent cause of brace and bracket damage.

Must enjoy:

  • Well cooked, soft meats and vegetables.
  • Soft breads, muffins, pies and cakes.
  • Soft fruits.
  • Yogurt.
  • Cheeses.
  • Eggs.

We all know that sugar is the ultimate NO. No for teeth and braces, but let’s face it, there are simply some comfort and traditional foods we want to enjoy during our holiday season. If you chose NOT to avoid that sweet treats, then take care in moderation. 

  • Manageable bites – cut your treat into smaller pieces that are easier to chew effectively, or simply suck on.
  • Smaller portions – it really isn’t necessary to have a large portion just to satisfy our comfort food craving. Take a smaller portion of several things and enjoy the season.
  • Brush, brush, brush – make sure you are upping your dental hygiene game by brushing extra, flossing and rinsing. It is imperative for oral health!

If you do damage your braces or arch wires, give us a call and we will get you in as soon as possible so you can continue to enjoy your holiday without discomfort. 

If you are traveling, be sure to pack extra bands and wax.  Don’t forget the retainer and mouthguard!   The last thing you want during your holiday is to be unprepared when you are not at home. If you are Invisalign user, take care to use your Invisalign case so that you don’t accidently leave your tray on a napkin or throw it away. 

Most importantly, please enjoy your holiday season! And remember, Dr. Taylor and all of us at A Perfect Smile are here for your orthodontic needs. Our mission is to provide exceptional, affordable orthodontic treatment to anyone in the Rio Grande Valley. We value all of you and want to make sure that you receive the finest orthodontic care available, and make your visits, easy, enjoyable, and quick! 

Dr. Taylor and Dr. Moura and the Entire Staff at A Perfect Smile Orthodontics Wish All of You a Safe and Happy Holiday Season! 

 

November 30, 2020 By Lisa Kay Leave a Comment

What Better Time to get Braces Than While Everyone is Wearing Masks!

masks and braces

Traditional metal braces have come a long way. Several years ago, large metal brackets which were very obvious were placed on teeth, which sparked the nickname, “Metal Mouth” for lots of kids.  

These days, brackets are much smaller and a lot less noticeable. Lots of our kids are even excited to get them since many of their friends already have braces, and they can even customize their look with colored rubber bands every time they have a follow-up appointment!

Some folks may still be a little hesitant though about wearing traditional types of braces because they can take a little getting used to and no one wants to be called a “Metal Mouth!” Metal braces today most certainly don’t look like they used to, but like with anything that affects appearance, it is usually the individual who’s more self-conscious, and most other people will barely notice them. 

However, if you or your child have any hesitation at all about any possible stigma associated with braces, now is a great time to get them while everyone is wearing masks! This will allow you time to adjust to your new look without having to worry about what others might think!

Get Started Now with a Free Consultation! 

Call us at 956.630.6166! 

masks and braces

If appearance is a serious concern for you, we do offer options such as clear braces which use porcelain, clear, or tooth-colored brackets or Invisalign, which are clear trays that are used to move teeth.

Dr. Taylor is the only orthodontist in the Rio Grande Valley who is an “Elite” status Invisalign provider. He’s also a Board-certified orthodontist who has provided braces of all kinds for hundreds of both children and adults and will work with you to make sure that you are happy with your choice of braces. 

We take pride in providing the best care for both adults and children in a family-friendly environment so that all of our patients look forward to coming in for their visits! Dr. Taylor and his wife, Sara, are proud members of the community and strive to make each patient feel like they are part of the family.

Come in For a Free, No Obligation Consultation! 

Dr Taylor Free orthodontic consultation

Dr. Taylor and Dr. Moura offer a free, no-obligation consultation to anyone considering braces. Our family-friendly environment is welcoming to patients of all ages and our staff is eager to help you with your orthodontic needs! 

Your consultation includes a complete, painless exam which will include x-rays. We can go over exactly what to expect and what options work best based on your individual needs and budget.

We believe that financial considerations should not be an obstacle to obtaining a healthy, beautiful smile. We are sensitive to the fact that people have different financial situations and can provide you with several payment plan options. 

Get Started Now!

Call us at 956.630.6166, or complete the form below now!

October 9, 2020 By Lisa Kay Leave a Comment

Spring Break Special!

School’s out! The days are getting longer which means more time for outdoor activities or to just take a break and be lazy! With the kids out of school, Spring Break is also an excellent time for a free consultation for braces. To celebrate, we are offering extra low down payments on braces for anyone who comes in for an appointment during Spring Break!

Your FREE consultation includes a full exam, complete with x-rays. We offer several treatment options for our patients and can go over which one is best for you or your child. Products like Invisalign®, Invisalign Teen®, self-ligating braces, and invisible braces are options for those who want their braces to be less noticeable. Traditional braces can be fun too! Many of our teens enjoy the different looks that they can create by changing out the colors of their elastic bands at each visit!

We always take the time to explain your treatment options, answer your questions, and make sure you are comfortable with your care, and we will help you find the best and most affordable braces option! We are happy to check with your insurance to see what benefits are available to you. We also have great financing options, and by coming in during Spring Break, you can take advantage of our Special, with extra low down payments! 

Our goal is to offer patients the best possible orthodontic treatment for the lowest possible cost to you! You are in great hands with Dr. Taylor! He’s a Board-certified orthodontist serving McAllen, Edinburg, Mission, and the surrounding areas. Dr. Taylor and his family love the Rio Grande Valley and have strong ties to the community, and always treat their patients like family. During every visit, our patients always share a smile and a laugh with Dr. Taylor and our wonderful staff at A Perfect Smile Orthodontics.

Your beautiful smile begins with a Free, No Obligation consultation with Dr. Taylor!

Give us a call today at (956) 433-3579 for your free consultation, or fill out the form below and we will contact you. 

Contact Us

Feel free to contact us if you have any questions or concerns about your orthodontic health. Simply call us at 956.630.6166, or complete the form below and we'll get back to you.

March 12, 2020 By Lisa Kay Leave a Comment

Summer is a Great Time for Kids to Get Braces!

Summer is officially in full swing! School is out and days are longer and which means more time for outdoor activities such as swimming, playing, or just being lazy. There are also fewer commitments such as after school activities like sporting events. Because of this, summer is an opportune time to have your child evaluated for braces.

The American Association of Orthodontics recommends that all children have an orthodontic exam by age 7 to see if there are any problems developing with the jaw that may need early intervention. Most of the baby teeth are still in place and an orthodontic specialist can easily determine if there is anything that needs early attention.  If early treatment is necessary, it can ease time and expense of braces treatment later on. Generally, he best time for most kids to get braces is between the ages of 11 and 14.

Benefits of Getting Braces in the Summer

Obviously, fewer time commitments mean more scheduling flexibility in the summertime especially since the first few appointments can take a little longer.

The free initial consultation includes x-rays and discussion regarding which braces treatment option is right for your child. We will also discuss insurance and/or financing options, along with any preparations that may need to be done prior to applying braces on the teeth.

The second appointment will involve placing the appliances on your child’s teeth.

Orthodontic technology has come a long way, but there will still be a minor adjustment period as your child’s mouth gets used to braces. The teeth may be a little sore in the beginning. Ibuprofen helps a lot but it’s a good idea to have soft foods on hand. Things like rice, pasta, and soup are all good choices while the mouth adapts to braces. Chilled foods such as ice cream or popsicles can be soothing as well.

There may be some mild irritation to the inside of the mouth in the beginning, however it usually resolves within a week or two. This is caused by the hardware rubbing or chafing against the mouth or lips. Fortunately, orthodontic wax can solve this problem immediately.

Changes to Eating Habits

Your child will need to change the way they eat some foods and it’s better for them to figure these things out before going back to school.  Things like apples, carrots, hard breads, crackers, etc., should be cut up before eating rather than biting into them since taking a bite out of these types of foods can cause breakage of the braces on the front teeth. Corn that’s on the cob should be sliced off as well.

Other types of foods should be avoided all together so no breakage occurs:

  • Toffee
  • Caramel
  • Hard candies
  • Popcorn
  • Gum
  • Ice

There will also need to be some adjustments to dental hygiene once braces are applied. We will show you and your child the most effective way to brush and floss in order to avoid plaque build-up during braces treatment.

Kids are incredibly resilient to change,  but it will be easier for them to establish new habits when they are home for the summer. This way, once they go back to school, it will all be second nature to them! 

After school starts back up again, your child will only need to come in for short office visits when braces need to be adjusted and to check progress. These appointments are quick and won’t take much time away from school or extra-curricular activities!

Dr. Taylor and the staff at A Perfect Smile Orthodontics offers all patients a complimentary consultation that includes a complete exam with x-rays along with providing you with options regarding the types of braces that we offer, and all financing options. Give us a call at (956) 433-3579 or fill out the form below to schedule your free consultation! 

Contact Us

Feel free to contact us if you have any questions or concerns about your orthodontic health. Simply call us at 956.630.6166, or complete the form below and we'll get back to you.

June 28, 2019 By Lisa Kay Leave a Comment

Recognizing Signs of Depression in Teens

Depression in teens Children and teenagers may experience depression differently than adults, however like their adult counterparts, children and adolescent sufferers are at an increased risk of attempting or committing suicide.  According to Wikipedia, the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) found that up to 7% of teenagers who develop depression may commit suicide.  Additionally, they report that suicide is the third leading cause of death among teenagers who are 15 – 19 years old.

It’s normal for adolescents to go through ups and downs especially as they have to navigate through hormonal changes, peer pressure and other stressors. However, if the “lows” persist for more than a few weeks, they could be depressed. If signs of depression continue to get worse, it’s time to get help. These symptoms would be a departure from the teenager’s previous attitude, mood, or behavior.

Symptoms of Depression 

Depression does not get better on its own. It can get worse and lead to more severe issues if left untreated. It also puts teenagers at higher risk for suicide, so it’s important to seek help immediately.

  • Sadness which doesn’t seem to go away and can cause crying spells for no apparent reason.
  • Frustration
  • Anger
  • Hopelessness
  • Loss of interest in activities
  • Feeling guilty
  • Ongoing fatigue
  • Headaches and other physical aches and pains
  • Increased sensitivity to criticism
  • Changes in weight
  • Trouble concentrating (grades may be affected)
  • Feeling worthless
  • Fixation on failures
  • Self-criticism
  • Low self-esteem
  • Frequent thoughts of suicide or death

Behavioral Changes to Watch Out For

Adolescents’ behavioral changes associated with depression can be different from that of adults’. For example, children or teenagers may begin to “act out” their feelings of depression by becoming more rebellious or having angry outbursts. Other behavioral changes that could be signs of depression include:

  • Sleeping too much and/or no motivation to get out of bed in the morning
  • Not being able to sleep
  • Decreased or increased appetite which may manifest as losing or gaining weight
  • Restlessness/agitation – this can manifest as not being able to sit still, pacing, or becoming more fidgety
  • Use of alcohol or drugs
  • Complaints of aches and pains or not feeling well – this may lead to increased visits to see the school nurse or being absent from school
  • Isolation from social situations or family participation
  • A decline in academic performance or a sudden decrease in grades
  • Not paying attention to hygiene or less time spent on personal appearance
  • Being quick to anger or lose temper
  • Risky or reckless behavior
  • Self-harm – this can include cutting
  • Excessive use of smart phone or internet (this can also increase depression symptoms)
  • Low energy levels, feeling fatigued
  • Problems at school including absenteeism and tardiness
  • Getting into trouble at school for behavior issues
  • Getting into trouble with the law

If you’re a teenager and you are experiencing these types of feelings or behavior, it’s important to reach out for help. Talk to someone such as a parent, friend, teacher, coach, school counselor, or another family member.

If your home situation is dysfunctional or you are a victim of abuse, talk to a relative or a teacher or counselor. Tell somebody. You do not ever deserve to be abused by anyone, whether it’s from a bully, a boyfriend or girlfriend, a parent, or anyone else.

If you are a parent of a depressed teenager, take action. Talk with your teen. Encourage open dialogue. Get help. Your child’s pediatrician or family doctor is a good place to start. Create a safe environment where your teen feels comfortable talking to you about serious issues by not being judgmental or getting mad at them about the feelings that they are experiencing. If you feel your teen needs counseling, get a referral from your doctor, or even the school nurse or guidance counselor.

When to Get Emergency Help

If you are having thoughts of suicide or of harming yourself, CALL 911 IMMEDIATELY. Don’t isolate yourself. Tell someone how you are feeling, such as your parent, teacher, a relative, friends, etc. If you are alone, get out around people where you will be less likely to harm yourself.

If you are a parent and you are afraid that your child is at risk of harming themselves or others, call 911. DO NOT LEAVE YOUR CHILD ALONE.

Other options if you or your teen are having suicidal thoughts include:

  • Call the suicide hotline. Someone will answer the phone 24/7. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline telephone number is 1-800-273-TALK (8255). You can also go to their webchat at suicidepreventionlifeline.org/chat.
  • Call TEENLINE 24/7 at 800-852-8336.
  • Call SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) at 1-800-487-4889. They are also available 24/7 and all calls are confidential.
  • If you are a victim of domestic violence, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).
  • Contact your family doctor, pediatrician, or mental health professional.

Causes of Depression

  • Hormonal imbalances
  • Brain chemistry changes
  • Chronic pain or illness
  • Having an eating disorder such as anorexia or bulimia
  • Physical illness
  • ADHD or other learning disability
  • Obesity
  • Being bullied
  • Trauma from abuse or violence
  • Confusion regarding sexual identify, especially in an unsupportive environment
  • Death of a loved one
  • Parents divorcing
  • Early childhood traumas including emotional, physical, or sexual abuse
  • Spending too much time on social media
  • Loneliness or feeling socially isolated
  • Peer pressure
  • Witnessing violence such as physical or sexual abuse
  • Unhealthy or dysfunctional family environment such as having a parent who is an alcoholic, drug addict, or is chronically ill
  • Other mental illness such as anxiety or being bipolar
  • Alcohol or drug abuse

Prevention

It’s impossible to prevent everything that can cause depression, however there are ways to help. One way is to talk about it or reach out for support especially during crises.

For parents, seek out treatment for your teenager at the earliest sign of a problem. The pediatrician or family practitioner is often a good place to start and they can provide a referral for a mental health specialist. Maintain ongoing treatment or counseling to help prevent recurrence.

Your Life Matters

It may feel like you’re alone or that your situation won’t improve. Those are symptoms of the depression. If you feel suicidal or are having thoughts of suicide, call 911 or the Suicide Hotline, and tell someone else how you’re feeling. 

Dr. Taylor and our staff at A Perfect Smile care about all of our family of patients in the community. We recognize that depression and suicide are serious public health problems and we hope this information is helpful. 

May 23, 2019 By Lisa Kay Leave a Comment

Braces and Candy

Braces and CandyWith the arrival of Easter on Sunday, we wanted to remind our patients about some of the challenges with braces and candy. Sugar, and especially candy can be more troublesome to deal with for those wearing braces. Some candies have a tendency to stick to brackets and wires more so than others. In fact, candy that is particularly sticky or nutty can even damage your braces.

Candies like these don’t just get stuck in braces; they can become embedded in the wires which can loosen or distort them. Some of the worst offenders include:

  • Jelly beans
  • Caramel
  • Starbursts
  • Toffy
  • Jaw breakers
  • Taffy
  • Nutty bars containing peanuts or almonds
  • M&Ms
  • Skittles

It’s best to stick with softer type candies such as peanut butter cups or plain chocolate bars. Fortunately, a chocolate Easter bunny would be an example of a great choice of candy for someone wearing braces!

Dental Hygiene Challenges for Braces and Candy 

Sugar from candy can cause cavities and this is especially true if you have braces since the candy can sit against your teeth for hours after eating.  It hides in all of the nooks and crannies which can cause bacteria to quickly form and lead to tooth decay.

AAO - Brushing And Flossing While Wearing Braces

 

Practicing good dental hygiene habits consistently will ensure that your teeth stay healthy throughout the treatment duration of your braces so that once you have them removed, you will have both a beautiful and a healthy smile!

We recommend brushing twice a day AND after every meal. It’s a good idea to have an arsenal of tools on hand to help to keep your teeth clean and healthy such as:

  • Soft toothbrush (be sure and replace every three months)
  • Waxed dental floss
  • A gentle mouthwash that kills bacteria to rinse with
  • An interproximal brush (this is a kind of tooth brush that looks similar to a pipe cleaner)
  • Floss threader 

Start out by brushing your teeth in small circular motions and be sure to spend about 2 minutes thoroughly brushing. Don’t forget the inside of your teeth as well. Brush the roof of your mouth lightly and also your tongue. This will help loosen and wash away any bacteria that might be lurking about.

Next, use your interproximal brush gently to get down between braces and make sure that any food buildup is removed. Work around and between your braces but use a light touch so that you don’t damage them.

And lastly, after rinsing your mouth out with water, rinse with a mouthwash that helps to kill bacteria.

Following these steps every day will help keep the cavities away! And don’t forget to see your dentist every 6 months for a checkup and teeth cleaning. Having braces does require a few extra steps in your hygiene routine. Just always remember to keep the end goal in mind – a beautiful and healthy new smile!

From Dr. Taylor and the staff at A Perfect Smile Orthodontics, we’d like to wish everyone a Happy Easter and a fun filled day spent with family and friends. May the miracle of this sacred holiday bring each of you peace and happiness!

 

 

 

 

 

April 18, 2019 By Lisa Kay Leave a Comment

Baby Teeth and Orthodontics

baby teeth and orthodonticsTiming of Loss of Baby Teeth and Orthodontics Treatment

There is a direct link between the timing of the loss of baby teeth and Orthodontics treatment. Most children begin to lose their primary (baby) teeth around age 6 and will continue to do so until they are around 12. These are just the averages ages; some kids will start a little early, and others will start a bit later which can be completely normal.

Usually, the baby teeth are lost in the order that they came in. For example, kids will lose their two front bottom teeth first, and then their two front top teeth. The side teeth are lost next, with the molars being the last to fall out, usually by 12-years old. Wisdom teeth don’t come in until sometime between 17 and 21 years old. The American Dental Association has a chart that helps show the order of the loss and eruption of primary and permanent teeth: https://www.ada.org/~/media/ADA/Publications/Files/patient_56.pdf?la=en.

Loss of Early Primary Baby Teeth and Orthodontics

Baby teeth are actually formed while the fetus is still in the womb, however they won’t begin to emerge until around 6-months of age. Children will usually have all twenty of their baby teeth by the time they’re 3-years old.

Baby teeth hold space for the permanent teeth that will come in later. When a child is young and their jaws are continuing to form, there isn’t enough room in the mouth for the larger, permanent teeth. Thus, those teeth will come in beginning with the front teeth first, just the same as the baby teeth did so that the jaw will be large and strong enough to handle the permanent teeth as it grows.

Some kids can lose a baby tooth early. This can be caused by trauma to the mouth/tooth or a cavity. In some children, genetics play a role on when they lose their baby teeth so it’s not necessarily unusual for the process to begin a little early or a little late.

Early primary tooth loss can also be caused by tooth decay that occurs when the child is using a bottle and it’s left in the mouth for too long (such as when a baby falls asleep) because sugars in the milk or juice can cause bacteria to form.

The permanent teeth grow under the baby teeth and as a permanent tooth starts to emerge, the root of the baby tooth will die off, causing the tooth to be loose. Once this process is complete, the tooth falls out and the new tooth should come in within a month or two.

If the baby tooth has been damaged, it may fall out before the permanent tooth is ready to come in. This can cause future problems with baby teeth and orthodontics may be needed. If a primary tooth falls out too early, it leaves a space. With no permanent tooth coming in behind it to fill the space, the other teeth in the mouth will start to shift towards each other and fill the space. This in turn, creates crowding issues once the permanent tooth is ready to come in which will likely warrant orthodontic treatment such as braces or an extraction later on in order to correct the crowding.

Delayed Loss of Primary Baby Teeth and Orthodontics

If the baby teeth are late in emerging, a different set of challenges can occur because the permanent teeth can start to come in while the baby teeth are still in the mouth. It can look as if there are two rows of teeth in the mouth. This process causes the adult teeth to come in crooked which will require orthodontic treatment to straighten them with braces later on.

Early Orthodontic Intervention

If your child has lost a baby tooth and 2 to 3 months have gone by without the adult tooth coming in, it’s time to see an orthodontist. The orthodontist can place a “space maintainer” (either removable or fixed) between the existing teeth in order to hold that space for the permanent tooth and prevent the other teeth from moving in to fill it.

If a primary tooth is missing for too long, it can cause the other teeth in the mouth surrounding that tooth to become loose because they’re not supported which will cause them to move.

Some space maintainers are removable but these are generally only used by a child old enough to know how and when to remove it and to keep it clean. For younger children, or for back teeth, a fixed maintainer is appropriate. It’s attached to the two surrounding teeth by a cement bond and can be taken off by the orthodontist once the permanent tooth emerges.

For those children who have baby teeth that are delayed in falling out and the permanent teeth are starting to come in, orthodontic treatment is needed as well. After a thorough examination, the orthodontist may want to go ahead and extract the baby tooth in order to make room for the permanent one.

braces for childrenEven if you don’t notice these types of issues occurring with your child, it’s still a good idea for an orthodontic exam at age 7 to see if there are any problems developing with the jaw. Most of the baby teeth are still in place at this time and it’s good to have a specialist identify whether or not there is anything that needs attention.

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends this too for all kids. To read more about the advantages of early orthodontic treatment and how it can prevent or reduce treatment time later on: https://www.aaoinfo.org/system/files/media/documents/Right_Time_for_Ortho-MLMS-hl.pdf.

Free Consultation at A Perfect Smile!

Dr. Taylor offers all of his patients a complimentary consultation that includes a complete exam with x-rays.

We would be happy to evaluate your child at no cost to you.

To schedule your free consultation, click HERE: https://www.aperfectsmileorthodontics.com/free-consultation/.

The timing of when your child loses their baby teeth and orthodontics treatment to prevent overly crowded or crooked permanent teeth is very important.

Catching any issues early can save you and your child from more extensive Orthodontic Treatment later. 

February 22, 2019 By Debbie Baumgarten Leave a Comment

Preparing Your Child for Braces

Sitting down and researching this as a family can be a fun way for your child or teen to feel involved and have some control over the process. Lots of kids are enthusiastic about using colored rubber bands. These are used with metal and porcelain braces to adhere the brackets to the adjustment wire and are changed out at every visit. They can be customized to be as colorful and flamboyant as your child desires. Clear or white bands are also available to create a less obvious “braces” look.

Our state of the art offices provide lots of fun things for your kids including a 25 seat HD movie theater. This can free you up to spend some time with Dr. Taylor going over some of the things that kids may find boring. There are also rewards programs and contests for the kiddos to participate in!

The Adjustment Period

Having braces applied doesn’t hurt. In fact, there’s no need for a numbing shot. They may feel some pressure on their teeth, but that’s about it.

A big part of preparing your child for braces is to go over what to expect during the adjustment period. It may take about a week before they’re comfortable “in their teeth” again. The important thing to remember is that this only lasts about a week.

There may be some mild irritation to the inside of the mouth. This is caused by the hardware rubbing or chafing against the mouth or lips. Fortunately, orthodontic wax (also called dental wax) can solve this problem immediately. All they will need to do is pinch off a piece of wax and place it right over the bracket causing the irritation. The wax will stick. It’s always a good idea to send some extra wax with your child when they leave the house so they’ll always have it when needed. Warm, wet tea bags can also be soothing to sore spots in the mouth.

The teeth may be a little sore in the beginning too. (This also can occur after braces are adjusted each month). Ibuprofen helps a lot but it’s a good idea to have plenty of soft foods on hand. Things like rice, pasta and soup are all good choices while the mouth adapts to braces. Chilled foods such as ice cream or popsicles can be soothing as well.

Food Cautions

When preparing your child for braces it’s very important that they understand they may need to change the way they eat some foods. Things like apples, carrots, hard breads, hard crackers, etc., should be cut up before eating rather than biting into them. The reason for this is because taking a bite can cause breakage of the braces on the front teeth. Corn that’s on the cob should be sliced off first as well.

A few types of food should be avoided altogether so as not to cause breakage:

  • Toffee
  • Caramel
  • Popcorn
  • Gum
  • Ice
  • Hard candies
  • Chewy or sticky candy
AAO - What to Eat When You Have Braces

Your child will also want to avoid foods or drinks that have strong colors such as berries or grape juice. These can permanently stain rubber bands or clear, porcelain braces and wires.

It’s a good idea to avoid or reduce consumption of sugary foods and drinks. Fructose and other forms of sugar can cause cavities and with braces on teeth, there are more nooks and crannies for bacteria to form.

Dr. Taylor is a Board-Certified Orthodontist and the only licensed Invisalign® provider in the valley. He and our staff are committed to making each experience easy, fun, and exceptional! We are happy to help prepare you and your child for braces.

October 10, 2018 By Debbie Baumgarten Leave a Comment

Signs you may need to see an Orthodontist

Crooked teeth aren’t the only reason to see an orthodontist. There are other issues that can affect the bite, jaw and tooth health which can have adverse effects on overall long-term wellness. If left untreated, some conditions can lead to increased tooth decay, gum disease, headaches, earaches, biting and chewing problems, and can even cause trouble speaking.

Signs that you may need to see an orthodontist may include:

  • Chewing or biting difficulty
  • A jaw that makes sounds such as popping or clicking noises
  • A jaw that shifts with movement
  • Cheek biting
  • Jaw pain, or TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction)
  • Uneven or excessive wear on teeth
  • Frequent headaches that may radiate to the ears or neck
  • Overbite
  • Underbite
  • Teeth that either meet abnormally or do not meet at all
  • Grinding teeth
  • Teeth that seem out of proportion to the face
  • Extra teeth
  • Crowding teeth
  • Spaces between teeth
  • Trouble chewing certain foods

These can be symptoms of such conditions as malocclusions, misaligned jaws, and teeth. Different types of malocclusions such as crossbites, underbites, overbites, and open bites will grow worse over time. They can place extra stress on the jaw muscles causing chronic pain in not only the jaw, but also the neck and shoulder. If a malocclusion is not corrected, it can even cause the face to grow asymmetrically.

Dr. Taylor is a board certified orthodontist and an expert who is trained to diagnose and treat these irregularities. It’s a good idea to have your child come in for a visit at age 6 to 7 to see if any of these irregularities are presenting. Depending on the severity of the condition, Dr. Taylor can determine if early intervention is necessary or if it’s okay to wait until the child is a little older.

Ideally, the best time for a child to get braces is between the ages of 10 and 14 while the child’s jaw and head are still growing. Teeth are easier to straightening during this time period too. However, a person is never too old to see an orthodontist and have any issues corrected; we have many adult patients who are much happier and more confident with their beautiful new smiles after treatment! A lot of them are surprised to learn that there are so many options available that fit easily into their lifestyles.

We offer several different braces options for both children and adults. Invisalign® is often a perfect choice since the trays used are almost totally invisible. Dr. Taylor is the Valley’s only Invisalign® premier provider. If for some reason you are not a candidate for Invisalign® and are concerned about braces showing, we also offer clear braces which a lot of adults prefer.

Traditional metal braces are much smaller than they used to be making them easier on the mouth and less obvious than in years past. A lot of kids and teenagers enjoy making them more fun with the use of colored bands and can change the look with each adjustment appointment!

Dr. Taylor and our team at A Perfect Smile invite you to come in for a consultation to address whether or not you or your child have conditions which may not be as obvious as crooked teeth, but which will affect long-term health if not addressed.

The first appointment is always free and includes an exam including x-rays. Our facility is state of the art and up to date on all of the latest technology so you can feel confident that you are getting the very best care. Our staff is both professional and fun and we strive to make your experience with us as smooth and enjoyable as possible!

September 15, 2018 By Debbie Baumgarten Leave a Comment

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