Early Orthodontic Treatment

For many adults and children, trouble breathing can be caused by orthodontic concerns and lead to additional health issues such as sleep apnea. Oftentimes, that manifests as snoring, waking up out of breath, extreme fatigue and drowsiness, and other very serious—possibly even life-threatening—symptoms. Some individuals may benefit from orthodontic treatments that can help improve not only the function of their bite and their smile aesthetics, but also their overall well-being.  Airway orthodontics goes beyond just correcting orthodontic issues such as crowding, gaps, and misalignment. The treatment is designed to address health problems that affect your breathing and sleeping with advanced orthodontic techniques and appliances. For many individuals, orthodontic options such as traditional metal braces and palate expanders can help reduce […]

While it is virtually never too early or too late to have an orthodontic evaluation, it is typically recommended that children have their first orthodontic exam by the time they are six or seven years-old. Around this age, the first molars begin to show, which enables our experienced orthodontist, Kenneth Banasiak, DMD, to determine whether your child is currently showing signs of orthodontic problems, or if there is a significant potential for orthodontic problems to develop. Crooked teeth, crowded teeth, and a misaligned bite are often much easier to correct at early stages of development. If it looks like treatment may be necessary, our practice offers some of the most advanced forms of braces for kids, as well as other […]

Thumb-sucking is a natural and common occurrence among babies and young children. It is often viewed as a phase that most kids go through. Understandably, some parents may wonder if this habit will have a negative impact on their child’s teeth later on in life. Thumb-sucking is typically harmless up to the age of five; however, kids who continue to suck their thumbs past that age are more at risk of developing orthodontic issues. Children with a more aggressive habit are more likely to need braces or other types of orthodontic solutions in the future to improve the condition of their teeth and mouth. While thumb-sucking among children usually stops at a certain age, the action of prolonged sucking of […]

One of the most important aspects of your orthodontic treatment begins when the braces come off. Maintaining your outcome often requires the use of a retainer, as this helps your teeth stabilize in their new position. To preserve your bite alignment, you will need to wear your retainer regularly and take good care of the appliance. Retainer maintenance is simple and straightforward, but it will require diligence. A little patience can give you the smile you’ve always wanted with permanent results. Some tips for retainer wear and care include: Brush your retainer daily with your regular toothbrush and toothpaste Only hold the retainer by the central portion, avoiding pressure on the sensitive edges and metal parts Remove the retainer and […]

When you think of orthodontic treatment, you may automatically assume that it only relates to older children and teens with alignment and spacing issues. But this isn’t the case: Orthodontic treatment at Nettune & Banasiak Orthodontic Associates offers many benefits when applied at a young age. By considering orthodontic treatment at a younger age, Drs. Roger Nettune and Kenneth Banasiak and our staff are able to identify your child’s alignment issues early on, and are able to intervene in order to provide treatment as the teeth begin to develop. It is important to start dental care early, not only for proper dental health and the cosmetic benefits, but to improve a child’s overall health as well. The Benefits of Straighter […]

Children and adults often feel confused and a little frightened because of the various metal tools and appliances used for orthodontic treatment. Knowing the applications of such devices can help ease a patient’s mind when undergoing treatment. Dentofacial orthopedics is a specialty that uses appliances to adjust the jaws for ideal compatibility. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends these treatment options for children between the ages of eight and 12 to make adjustments during developmental stages. Adults also experience dental changes throughout their lives and can benefit from dentofacial orthopedic appliances. Some common problems with jaw alignment or development include: • Underdeveloped lower jaw • Protrusion of upper teeth • Malocclusions • Crossbite • Overbite Orthodontic Appliances for Correcting Jaw Growth Problems Jaw-correcting appliances are […]