Are you frustrated with searching online for the “best orthodontist near me” and turning up few results? Searching for the “best orthodontist near me” can be useful, but it’s really a good idea to learn about the practice and what they offer. Below are some of the treatments we have available at Unique Orthodontics.
What Is the Growth Guidance Program?
The growth guidance program is a monitoring program for children. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children have their first appointment with an orthodontist by the time they are seven years old. By that age, some of their adult teeth will have grown in, and the orthodontist can spot any developing problems. Many such problems, such as an abnormally narrow palate, are easier to correct in children than in adolescents or adults, who may need to have teeth extracted or even undergo jaw surgery. A child’s bones, on the other hand, are softer and more flexible than an adult’s, which makes correcting orthodontic problems easier.
After their initial evaluation, the child should return to the orthodontist every six months. The orthodontist will check for problems like crowding, bite problems, and early or late loss of baby teeth. They will determine if or when the child needs an orthodontic appliance.
What Is a Habit Appliance?
A habit appliance is a device that looks like a retainer but is designed to stop a bad habit like thumb-sucking or tongue-thrusting. If such habits persist, they can gradually force the teeth out of alignment and cause a malocclusion or bad bite.
Habit appliances are effective: They sometimes work within a few days. More stubborn habits can take months to correct.
What Is Orthognathic Surgery?
Orthognathic surgery, also known as corrective jaw surgery, is done to realign the jaws and teeth so they will work properly. It can also be done to correct other jaw problems and treat conditions like TMJ disorder, sleep apnea, or severe malocclusions.
In many cases, the orthodontist will recommend orthognathic surgery if less invasive orthodontic treatments haven’t worked. It is typically recommended for patients who have finished growing.
What Is a Space Maintainer?
Baby teeth not only enable a child to speak and chew normally, they also serve as placeholders for the adult teeth. If a child loses a baby tooth prematurely, it can cause problems, like other baby teeth coming loose or adult teeth drifting into incorrect positions.
A space maintainer is thus an orthodontic appliance designed to keep the remaining teeth in their proper places until the adult tooth grows in.
To learn about the other treatments offered by the “best orthodontist near me,” feel free to get in touch with our team at Unique Orthodontics in Fresno, Old Town Clovis, the Buchanan Area, Madera, and Tulare. Contact us today to schedule your consultation!
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