What causes crooked teeth?

We know everyone wants a naturally-aligned and beautiful smile and it’s no secret that orthodontic treatment can help deliver the dazzling smile you’ve always wanted. But, what, exactly, is the cause of crooked teeth? There are several reasons why some children’s teeth grow in crooked or overlapping. Some of the common reasons for crooked teeth include: Thumb-sucking Tongue thrusting or improper use of the tongue during speaking and swallowing Early loss of baby teeth, which causes teeth to drift and shift Prolonged use of a baby bottle or the use of a pacifier after the age of three  Poor breathing airway caused by enlarged adenoids or tonsils There are also hereditary factors we get from our parents that determine how straight or crooked our teeth are. These include extra teeth, large teeth, missing teeth, wide spaces between teeth or even jaws that are too small to accommodate their erupting teeth. It is important to recognize that having crooked teeth isn’t just a cosmetic issue; it can lead to serious health problems down the road as well. Crooked teeth can: Interfere with proper chewing, a problem you face at every meal that impacts your nutrition Make keeping your teeth clean more of a challenge, increasing the chance of developing cavities, tooth decay and gingivitis Strain the teeth, jaws and muscles, increasing the risk of breaking a tooth In certain instances crooked or uneven teeth can cause difficulties with speech patterns, bone erosion, as well as help in digestion. The good news is that multiple treatment modalities are available to correct crooked teeth and gain the many benefits of a straight, healthy smile. If you have questions about your treatment at our office, please give us a call or ask us during your next adjustment visit!

Copyright © 2013 Sesame Communications

"What is expected of me during my orthodontic treatment?"

We hear this question a lot, and are thrilled that patients are eager to manage their treatment in the best manner possible so they may complete their orthodontic treatment on schedule.

During your initial consultation, we will map out a specific treatment for you and will try our hardest to give you a timeline of when we expect you to wrap up treatment.

Having said that, we know every patient is different. People have different biological responses to orthodontic treatment and some people's teeth may move faster than others.

Luckily, there are things you can do to ensure your treatment wraps up in a timely manner. By following these suggestions, you can avoid any setbacks during your treatment.

• Make sure to keep your adjustment appointments. Postponing or cancelling will delay treatment!
• Be sure to show up on time to your appointments. This will give us time to complete everything we planned to accomplish during your adjustment visit.
• When prescribed, make sure you are diligent about wearing rubber bands or other appliances.
• Avoid damage to your braces and teeth by wearing a mouth guard during sports activities.
• Make sure to brush and floss regularly! Gum disease or other dental work can delay orthodontic treatment.

If you remember to follow these guidelines, you'll be on your way to having the dazzling, healthy smile you've always wanted. As for us, we will do our part to move your orthodontic treatment along efficiently. If you have any questions about your treatment time, please give us a call or ask us during your next adjustment visit!

Copyright © 2013 Sesame Communications

What should I ask during my consultation?

If you have been thinking about orthodontic treatment to straighten teeth or correct jaw alignment, your first step is a visit to our office for an orthodontic consultation. During the initial consultation we will address your questions, concerns, and talk about a treatment plan that would best suit your case. Because we want you to feel prepared and in charge of your orthodontic treatment decisions, consider the following questions when you visit for your initial consultation. If I do need some adjustments to my teeth, what options will I have besides braces? What kind of preparation is needed to get braces? How many visits will it take? How many visits will the treatment plan take? Can I expect any pain when getting braces? What are the factors that determine how long I have to wear braces? How will braces affect my lifestyle? Foods I can eat? Activities I can participate in? Who will be involved in the orthodontic work?  Whom can I expect to see during my adjustment visits? What is the correct expectation in terms of outcome? How much will my orthodontic work cost? What is the “average” cost? Your initial orthodontic consultation may just be the first step in relieving concerns about the appearance of your smile, or discomfort you are experiencing. Going in with the right questions will help you to understand the entire process, the state of the art treatment options available to you, and prepare you to do your part for your own dental health, ultimately leaving you with a great smile!

Copyright © 2012 Sesame Communications

How long does orthodontic treatment take?

Your smile is totally unique, so the time you’ll need to spend undergoing orthodontic treatment will also be unique. Generally, orthodontic treatment will take about two years, and this is for good reason. During this time, your teeth will slowly move into their desired positions, leaving you with a great smile with as little discomfort as possible. Rushing treatment can result in a less than perfect smile with a greater chance of tooth movement after your treatment is complete. After all, we don’t want to waste your time with treatment that won’t retain your smile for the rest of your life. Of course, treatment time will vary depending on your specific situation. Very minor tooth movement may only take a few months to correct, while serious malocclusion (poor bite) may need more than two years to correct. Based on a thorough examination and complete clinical records we will be able to accurately estimate the time your treatment will take. But—it’ll all be worth it in the end! Orthodontic care is not only about beautiful smiles, it dramatically improves your overall oral and gum health. Has your child or teen visited our office for an orthodontic consultation? If not, please give us a call and let us help him or her begin the journey to a gorgeous smile!

Copyright © 2012 Sesame Communications

iPad Contest Winner

Congratulations to Lynn Kerley for being the lucky winner of our "Do You L-O-V-E Webb Orthodontics???" iPad contest! She was entered into the drawing each time for referring several patients, as well as writing recommendations and checking in on our FaceBook.  

Show us the L-O-V-E and you too can have a chance of winning an iPad!

December T shirt Winner!

Congratulations to Evan Sabath for wearing his t shirt to 

his appointments and being our December winner. To help combat the flu this season, he may use his Target gift card to stock up on Airborne. Great idea Evan!

A Big Thank You to our Patients

We are so appreciative of our wonderful patients for all of the donations to our Toys for Tots drive this past Christmas.    
Thank you for your generosity and your support!