Orthodontics
Orthodontics at Conscious Dentistry
At Conscious Dentistry, we believe that orthodontic treatment is about more than just straightening teeth—it’s about creating a healthy, functional bite and promoting overall wellness. Dr. Anthony takes a holistic, biologic approach to orthodontics, which includes both Phase 1 orthopaedic expansion and Phase 2 orthodontic alignment. These two phases work in harmony to ensure that your child's or your own dental health supports your overall health, particularly airway health, and proper craniofacial development.
Phase 1 Orthopaedic Expansion: Developing the Jaw for Optimal Health
Phase 1 of orthodontic treatment focuses on the development of the jaw and the alignment of the upper and lower arches. This phase is critical for children, typically between the ages of 6 and 9, as it takes advantage of the growth potential of their bones to guide proper craniofacial development.
Why is Phase 1 so important ?
Jaw and Cranial Bone Development: In Phase 1, the goal is to expand the upper jaw (maxilla) and encourage optimal development of the surrounding cranial structures. This helps to create enough space for the adult teeth to come in properly, preventing overcrowding and misalignment. More importantly, expanding the jaw in its early stages allows for proper alignment of the teeth and the entire craniofacial structure.
Airway Health: A properly developed and expanded jaw improves the airway by ensuring that the nasal passages and airways are clear and unobstructed. This can have a profound impact on breathing, reducing the risk of issues such as sleep apnea, mouth breathing, and other airway-related concerns.
Systemic Health: The development of a proper jaw structure and airway is essential for overall health. Chronic mouth breathing and airway restrictions can affect sleep, cognitive function, and even posture. By addressing these concerns early in Phase 1, we lay the foundation for better health and well-being.
Through the use of gentle, non-invasive appliances like palatal expanders, Dr. Anthony can widen the upper jaw, creating more space for teeth to erupt properly and supporting better airflow. This early intervention can often prevent the need for more invasive treatments later, such as tooth extractions.
Phase 2 Orthodontic Alignment: Aligning Teeth for Function and Aesthetics
Phase 2 begins once the jaw has properly developed in Phase 1 and the permanent teeth have started to come in. This phase focuses on fine-tuning the alignment of the teeth for both aesthetic and functional purposes. Dr. Anthony offers two main options for Phase 2 orthodontics:
Traditional Braces: For patients who need more precise control over their tooth movement, traditional metal braces may be recommended. These braces use brackets and wires to gradually move the teeth into their correct positions. Dr. Anthony ensures that the movement of the teeth does not compromise the airway and continues to support the patient’s overall health.
Clear Aligners (Invisalign): For those who prefer a more discreet option, Invisalign or clear aligners are a great choice. These custom-made, transparent trays gradually move teeth into alignment without the need for traditional brackets. Clear aligners are a popular option for adults and older teens who desire a more aesthetic orthodontic treatment.
Both options—traditional braces or clear aligners—focus on achieving the best possible dental alignment, ensuring that the bite is functional, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing.
The Importance of Proper Jaw Development and Airway Health
Dr. Anthony’s approach to orthodontics emphasizes the interconnectedness of oral health, airway health, and systemic health. Misaligned jaws and teeth can not only affect a person’s smile, but they can also have far-reaching impacts on their overall well-being.
Craniofacial Development: Phase 1 treatment plays a crucial role in ensuring that the jaw, teeth, and facial bones develop properly. This prevents issues like TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders, crowded teeth, and malocclusion (bad bite).
Airway and Breathing: An underdeveloped upper jaw can lead to restricted airflow, causing issues like snoring, mouth breathing, or more serious conditions like sleep apnea. By expanding the jaw early on, Dr. Anthony ensures that the airway is wide open, supporting better breathing and sleep.
Systemic Health: There’s a growing body of evidence linking oral health and airway health with overall systemic well-being. Poor airflow can lead to low oxygen levels at night, which can contribute to cardiovascular problems, stress, and decreased cognitive function. By optimizing the jaw and airway from an early age, Phase 1 treatment helps to prevent these issues and supports better health in the long term.
Why Choose Conscious Dentistry for Your Orthodontic Treatment ?
Holistic, Biologic Approach: Dr. Anthony’s focus on the entire craniofacial structure ensures that orthodontic treatment supports optimal airway health, jaw development, and systemic wellness.
Early Intervention: Phase 1 treatment helps guide jaw development during critical growth periods, preventing future dental and health issues.
Personalized Treatment Plans: Whether you choose traditional braces or Invisalign, Dr. Anthony tailors the treatment plan to suit your specific needs, goals, and health concerns.
Focus on Airway Health: We take special care to ensure that the development of your jaw supports better airflow, reducing the risk of mouth breathing and sleep-disordered breathing.
Long-Term Health: By addressing the root causes of dental misalignment and airway restriction early, we set the foundation for long-term health, improved sleep, and better quality of life.