There are many reasons why you may be looking to visit our Portage orthodontic office. Some of those reasons may be that you’re looking to improve your smile. Maybe you’re bringing in your child for their own orthodontic treatment. 

There are also a few reasons why people visit us that they may not even be aware of when they first begin. Our personalized care has helped our patients with all kinds of orthodontic issues, such as

• Overbites
• Underbites
• Open Bites
• Uneven Spacing & Crowding
• Misplaced Midlines
• Crossbites

And while we are very proud of the work we’ve done to help people correct these specific issues, the other ways in which we can help patients like you live healthier happier lives are perhaps even more special to us.  For example- 

Speech Impediments:

Many people do not realize just how important the alignment of your teeth is to your speech patterns. If you suffer from very poorly aligned teeth, it can often cause a lisp or other speech struggle. If you’re suffering from a speech impediment right now, you don’t have to continue to do so. Contact our Portage orthodontic office and schedule a consultation to get started on creating a treatment plan. 

Chewing & Eating:

Our role in helping to restore the function to your mouth is very important, even more so when you have difficulty eating and chewing. With great orthodontic care we can help you become healthier and happier while allowing you to eat all of the foods you enjoy with ease.

Sleep Apnea:

In some cases, orthodontic care can be helpful to patients who suffer from sleep apnea. Obstructive sleep apnea is caused when your airways close during sleep, forcing you to gasp for air throughout the night and get a terrible night’s sleep. Orthodontic care can correct the positioning of your jaw to help open your airways and get a more restful night of sleep. If you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea and are looking for a potentially permanent solution, contact our office to see how we can help.  

Comfort & Confidence:

Most of all though, we love the fact that we get to help restore your comfort and confidence in their smile with our orthodontic care. It’s hard to beat having a smile that you can show off proudly whenever your life makes you happy. 

Our office is clean, friendly, and ready to welcome you. If you’re ready to solve your orthodontic issues, call our office and schedule an appointment today. We’ll evaluate your orthodontic needs and discuss which options may be available to you for a straighter, healthier smile.

Sage Orthodontics of Portage
Phone: (269) 327-0760
Url: https://sageorthodontics.com/
1700 E. Centre Ave.
Portage, MI 49002

Whether you are considering orthodontic work for yourself or your child, there are many questions you will want answered before committing to a treatment plan. Here is a list of key conversations to have with our team during your next appointment:

1. What are my treatment options?

There are many different styles of braces, including traditional metal brackets, clear braces, invisible aligners and more. Ask us about the pros and cons of each and be sure to compare the treatment times and costs.

2. What is the estimated treatment time?

Treatment plan times can vary dramatically depending on your situation, your chosen treatment, and your adherence to our guidance. Clarifying expectations with our office now can provide you with a realistic picture of when you can debut your new smile.

3. Do I need to change my lifestyle or activities?

Sports and other hobbies should continue as usual with braces, but there may be certain adjustments needed, such as wearing a mouthguard during athletic events. Depending on the type of treatment you choose, you may have to avoid eating certain foods as well. 

4. How many office visits are required?

The time frame will vary based on the type of braces you recieve and the treatment plan our office recommends and utilizes.

5. Will I need to remove any teeth?

While there are conflicting opinions on the necessity of tooth extraction in some orthodontic cases, our office will work with you to ensure that you are only getting the most necessary care. If a tooth extraction is needed in order to help you achieve a straighter smile, we will discuss that option with you in time. 

6. What happens if my brackets or wires come loose?

Loose brackets or wires are not uncommon during orthodontic treatment. If this happens to you, you can contact our office to set up a time to fix the issue. In the meantime, dental wax is a great way to reduce the pain that loose wires can cause in some instances.

7. What happens if I break or lose my retainer?

Replacement retainers can be made, but it’s a good idea to keep removable appliances in a case when not in use, to avoid accidental loss or damage.

8. What is the total cost of my treatment plan?

As with many other aspects of orthodontic treatment, the cost could vary. However, our office will work with you to find the treatment option that works best for your needs.

Orthodontic treatment is a very unique and personal experience – for both you and your child. Asking the right questions ahead of time can help you manage expectations and get you started on your journey towards a healthy, beautiful smile. If you’re interested in getting started on creating a beautiful healthy smile of your own, call our Portage orthodontic office today for a complimentary consultation.  

Sage Orthodontics of Portage
Phone: (269) 327-0760
Url: https://sageorthodontics.com/
1700 E. Centre Ave.
Portage, MI 49002

Your temporomandibular joint serves as a hinge that connects your jaw to your skull’s temporal bones (located just in front of your ears). This joint allows you to move your jaw up and down and from side to side, motions that are necessary when you talk, chew and or even yawn. Problems with this joint can lead to a condition known as TMJ disorder that is characterized by an array of troubling symptoms, including:

• Tenderness in the jaw area or near the ears

• Discomfort in the neck or shoulders

• Difficulty opening your mouth wide

• Clicking or popping sounds when you open and close your mouth

• Facial tiredness or fatigue

• Trouble chewing or an uncomfortable bite 

• Facial swelling

If you have experienced any of these symptoms, contact our office to schedule an evaluation. If TMJ is the culprit, your treatment options will vary, but many patients may find relief after embarking on an orthodontic treatment plan. Depending on the root cause of your TMJ, our office may suggest several options to address your symptoms, including the use of a night guard, the placement of a TMJ appliance, or teeth straightening using some type of braces or aligners.

A night guard is exactly what it sounds like: a mouthpiece that is worn while you sleep to guard against sleep-induced teeth grinding and jaw clenching. The night guard works to alleviate TMJ symptoms by easing the pressure exerted on the temporomandibular joint. Night guards are custom molded for you by our orthodontic team so they can realign your jaw and relieve your discomfort.

Unlike a night guard, a TMJ appliance, also known as an orthodontic splint, is worn 24 hours a day. Fashioned from acrylic resin, a splint is designed to fit on top of the upper or lower teeth and helps to stabilize the teeth and/or jaws to alleviate discomfort. 

If your TMJ is caused by tooth misalignment or bite problems, braces may be the most effective method to shift your teeth into the proper position. Correctly positioned teeth will ultimately help realign the temporomandibular joint, reducing or even eliminating TMJ symptoms.  

If you have been experiencing jaw pain, teeth grinding, jaw clenching, or any other symptoms associated with TMJ, a consultation with our team may be the best first step in identifying a solution. Our orthodontic office has extensive knowledge regarding how tooth alignment impacts your face and jaw muscles, and is uniquely qualified to make treatment recommendations that will keep TMJ symptoms at bay. Call our Portage orthodontic office and schedule a consultation to learn more today. 

Sage Orthodontics of Portage
Phone: (269) 327-0760
Url: https://sageorthodontics.com/
1700 E. Centre Ave.
Portage, MI 49002

If you are considering orthodontic treatment as an adult, chances are you have a few misconceptions about your treatment options. The field of orthodontics has come a long way in recent years, and you may be pleasantly surprised to discover that adult braces can be discreet, convenient and surprisingly affordable. Let’s debunk some common myths:

Myth: “I will need a mouth full of metal.” 

Fact: While metal braces are always an option, there are many non-metal alternatives that are ideal for self-conscious adults. One of the most popular are the virtually undetectable Invisalign™ aligners that are completely clear and conveniently removable. Simply pop them out to enjoy a meal and put them in again to keep your new smile moving in the right direction. 

Myth: “Braces will hurt.”

Fact: While there may be some discomfort when you first begin orthodontic treatment, most patients become accustomed to the pressure on their teeth. Regardless, the potential discomfort does not detract from our patients’ quality of life, nor does it prevent them from doing many of the things they love to do. If you still have concerns, you can talk to our orthodontists about the options you have and how to best stay comfortable during your treatment period. 

Myth: “Treatment takes too long.”

Fact: Depending on your recommended treatment plan, you may find your new smile can be achieved in a much shorter time than you expected. From digital X-rays and in-office impressions, to ordering retainers and everything in between, modern tools, techniques and technology offers faster-than-ever results for patients of all ages.

Myth: “I don’t have time for office visits.”

Fact: It may seem daunting to try and fit orthodontic appointments into your already busy schedule. Thankfully, the same improvements that have significantly shortened treatment times have also made it possible to potentially extend the intervals between office visits, depending on your own personal needs.

Myth: “Adult braces are not covered by insurance.”

Fact: As with nearly everything else in the world of orthodontia, dental insurance coverage has evolved, too. There are now many dental insurance providers who will cover adult orthodontics, and not just traditional metal braces. 

Think braces are just for kids? Think again. More and more adults are choosing to straighten their smiles, using an array of grown-up treatment options that are both innovative and discrete. Schedule a consultation with our orthodontic team today to determine which treatment plan that is right for you.

Sage Orthodontics of Portage
Phone: (269) 327-0760
Url: https://sageorthodontics.com/
1700 E. Centre Ave.
Portage, MI 49002

You’re busy with life. We get it. From work, to kids, to anything else that comes your way, you may not be able to remember the last time you had “free time”. As busy as you are, it may feel impossible to find the time to get orthodontic care for your crooked or misaligned teeth. But don’t be fooled.

Your dental health is critical. Not getting the necessary treatment could result in the need for even more time-consuming care as later issues arise. While the aesthetic value of straighter teeth is widely recognized, the health benefits are often overlooked. Crooked teeth can increase your chances of having gum disease, tooth decay, and even tooth loss. In fact, you may not have the time to NOT receive orthodontic care.

However, if you are worried about the time that orthodontic care requires, there are solutions, one of which is clear plastic aligners. This orthodontic treatment may be the perfect choice for your busy life. Here are some of the most important reasons why.

Aligners Fit Your Lifestyle:

Removable aligners allow you to participate in all your regular activities, from sports and fitness to eating your favorite foods. When it comes to enjoying your favorites, just remove the trays and eat exactly as usual. This saves you the time and energy it may take to prepare “braces safe” meals and snacks.

You also won’t have to significantly change your dental hygiene routine. One complaint we often get about traditional braces is the added time it takes to brush and floss properly. With aligners, simply remove the trays before brushing and flossing to get the same clean you always have. The only difference is that you’ll have to take the few extra minutes to clean your aligners before putting them back in your mouth. 

No More Self Consciousness:

When people say they are too busy for orthodontic care, what they sometimes mean is that they don’t want to have to deal with the hassle and potential embarrassment of wearing braces as an adult. With aligners, you won’t have to worry about trying to hide your smile, both during your treatment and after.

Fewer Emergency Visits:

Traditional braces can sometimes need to be fixed by Sage Orthodontics. Either because of a broken wire or another issue, these visits can come at the worst of times for your schedule. With plastic aligners, you won’t have to worry about broken wires, you’ll just need to come in to get your new trays at regularly scheduled intervals. 

While aligners may not be for everyone, it’s worth getting a consultation from our Portage orthodontist to see if they may be right for your orthodontic needs. Schedule an appointment today and see the difference that orthodontic treatment can have on your life.

Sage Orthodontics of Portage
Phone: (269) 327-0760
Url: https://sageorthodontics.com/
1700 E. Centre Ave.
Portage, MI 49002

If your child is a candidate for braces, chances are both of you have a least a few questions and potential concerns. Young children and even teens may feel a combination of apprehension and excitement as they begin their journey towards a straighter smile. Here’s what you can do to help them prepare for orthodontic treatment:

1. Include them in discussions about treatment options.

Orthodontia is no longer a one-size-fits-all solution. Talk to your Portage orthodontist about all of your child’s potential treatment options and include your child in the conversation. While metal braces are the most popular choice for children and teens, there may be other methods that are equally effective and affordable.

2. Describe what to expect during treatment.

Ask Sage Orthodontics to help you anticipate common questions. Plan to be as candid as possible and honest when it comes to discomfort – braces take some getting used to, but assure your child that any potential discomfort will ease with time. Also emphasize the commitment needed to keep their teeth clean during treatment; brushing and flossing will take longer with braces, but the time investment is well worth it.

3. Stock up on soft foods.

Your child’s teeth may feel sensitive for the first few days after getting their braces fitted. Keep them comfortable by stocking up on softer foods that will make eating easier. Rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, soups, yogurt, and pudding are all great choices.

4. Invest in orthodontic wax.

Your child may experience some mouth soreness as they get used to the brackets on their braces. Orthodontic wax offers a thin layer of protection between the brackets and their tender gums. Show your child how to use it so they can keep it handy in their backpack for use at school and during extracurricular activities.

5. Focus on the benefits.

Explaining the benefits of braces to your child will reinforce the importance of adhering to their treatment plan. Children are often impatient and want immediate gratification, so remind them that while a year or two may seem like forever, the pay-off will be a beautiful, self-confident smile they can be proud of for years to come.

If you and your child are embarking on your first orthodontic journey together, we’re here to help. Contact our Portage orthodontics office for additional tips to set your child up for treatment success.

Sage Orthodontics of Portage
Phone: (269) 327-0760
Url: https://sageorthodontics.com/
1700 E. Centre Ave.
Portage, MI 49002

Few of us would trust our car maintenance to an unlicensed mechanic, or embark on costly home repairs using an inexperienced contractor. Yet, with the rise in popularity of “mail order aligners” and at-home teeth straightening kits, many people are choosing cost-savings over safety when it comes to their orthodontic care. Here are some facts to consider when comparing at-home teeth straightening with traditional orthodontic care:

• Orthodontic care is not only about aesthetic outcomes. Misaligned teeth can also lead to health problems best addressed by a trained, licensed orthodontist. For example, patients with crooked teeth are more prone to tooth decay and gum disease, and regular office visits during your treatment plan can ensure your teeth and gums remain healthy as your teeth are being repositioned.

• Safety and supervision go hand-in-hand. When you get your treatment plan in a traditional setting, our orthodontic team oversees your progress to ensure your teeth are moving at the safest, most efficient rate. Our orthodontists can also adjust your treatment plan as needed based on your overall oral health. This type of personalized care is not available if you choose a mail order aligner service, where you are tasked with managing your own care from home, without scheduled office visits.

• Orthodontic care is a medical treatment, not just a device or a product. The American Association of Orthodontists strongly recommends that consumers only receive clear aligner treatment plans from an experienced, licensed orthodontist to ensure that they receive the safe, high-quality care they deserve. Some of the risks associated with at-home teeth straightening include poor outcomes, damage to teeth roots and gums, and a poorly aligned bite.

• Aligners may not be right for you. Although many people are good candidates for treatment plans using clear aligners, some will achieve better results using other orthodontic methods like metal braces. Since mail order kits only offer clear aligners, you will not have the benefit of a trained orthodontist who can assess your teeth and your bite to make sure aligners are the preferred approach for you.

Orthodontic care has evolved in recent years and there are more methods than ever to help you achieve a straighter smile. While the less expensive price tag associated with mail order aligners and at-home teeth straightening may seem alluring, the caliber of care offered in a traditional orthodontic office remains the best choice for the long-term health and beauty of your smile. Call our office today for a complete smile evaluation.

Sage Orthodontics of Portage
Phone: (269) 327-0760
Url: https://sageorthodontics.com/
1700 E. Centre Ave.
Portage, MI 49002

If you’ve spent any amount of time with missing teeth, you know just how detrimental it can be to your quality of life. You may be ready to finally do something about it and restore your smile with a dental implant. However, if you’ve spent too much time with those teeth missing, you may have a problem. 

Teeth have a natural ability to move due to periodontal ligaments and a thin layer of bony-like material called cementum. When you have a full smile, this ability for teeth to shift is not all that noticeable as the pressure from surrounding teeth tend to help everything stay in place. 

However, when there is a gap from a missing tooth, the surrounding teeth suddenly have a lot more room to move, and will take up the space quickly. As a result, if you’ve gone a long time with missing teeth, your remaining teeth may have moved into the vacant area, blocking the place where your dental implant restoration needs to go. 

In order to remedy this situation and get your mouth ready for your implants, it may be necessary to correct your alignment with orthodontics. 

Orthodontic treatment, such as braces, is used to incrementally change the position of your teeth to get them back in place. When your teeth are back in place, your doctor will be able to place the implant. While orthodontics are an extremely effective method of correction, traditional metal braces can be quite noticeable in the mouth. 

For those adults who may need orthodontic treatment, there are multiple options to choose from that can fit your lifestyle and your needs. If this is the case, one possible option may be found in the form of clear aligners. 

While there are many aligner systems on the market today, many know about Invisalign or have seen a commercial for the system. Changed roughly every two weeks, these plastic trays are worn consistently to achieve the same effect as braces, but with a lower profile.

Regardless of which option works best for your needs, this process speaks to the interrelatedness all dental professionals must share in order to give you the smile of your dreams.  Our office is happy to play its part in helping you smile with confidence again. 

If you need to schedule an appointment, or want to ask us any questions about your current treatment, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We are here to help you smile and look forward to doing so. 

Sage Orthodontics of Portage
Phone: (269) 327-0760
Url: https://sageorthodontics.com/
1700 E. Centre Ave.
Portage, MI 49002

Having a great smile with straight teeth is an often-sought-after look. As orthodontic technology continues to improve with more convenient options becoming available, it can be a bit overwhelming trying to find the best and most affordable options for you.

One thing we can tell you for sure is that when considering options for straighter teeth, it is crucial to consult with our Portage orthodontist. Orthodontists can personally assess your teeth and create an ideal treatment plan for your unique needs. Everyone’s teeth and alignment are different, and a personal, professional touch is a necessary tool for those who want to increase their chances of desirable results. Even thoroughly researched options should still be reviewed by a professional orthodontist before any action is taken. Failure to do so could result in detrimental impacts for you or your child’s oral health.

Nowadays, there are many commercials on television and social media for companies that are looking to sell you plastic aligners and straighter smiles without a visit to an orthodontic office. While this may sound like a positive solution, avoiding orthodontic supervision by a professional may be detrimental to your dental health. Sage Orthodontics of Portage has your best interests in mind and wants to make sure your smile is straightened the correct way for lasting oral health.

Working to improve your smile is a big step in health, financial, and emotional terms. Making sure you find the right orthodontic professional to help your treatment go smoothly is important. Don’t allow a non-professional service to ruin your smile with rushed orthodontic care. Our team will work with you to find the best options available to you both personally and financially. If you have any questions, or want to schedule a consultation, contact our office today.

Sage Orthodontics of Portage
Phone: (269) 327-0760
Url: https://sageorthodontics.com/
1700 E. Centre Ave.
Portage, MI 49002

Your braces are made up of many different parts, all of which can possibly hinder your ability to reach the entire tooth surface while brushing. The Wires, brackets, bands, and screws can trap food particles after every meal, even if you feel as if your mouth is perfectly clean. Giving your mouth a quick rinse and brush after meals not only helps to keep your teeth and brace clean but can also help you sustain great oral health throughout the period of your orthodontic treatment and beyond.

The Best Way to Brush:

Your braces themselves can become a hotspot for bacteria buildup if you aren’t diligent in making sure no food is left behind. When brushing with braces, make sure to get in all the nooks and crannies, as there are many. Brush your teeth at different angles to target the spots between brackets and bands. Remember to take your time – you should expect to be brushing for longer amounts of time and more thoroughly with braces.

It is also important to be regularly rinsing your mouth with water to dislodge anything lingering in your bands or brackets. If you find yourself without a toothbrush after a meal, this rinsing could help remove stubborn food particles left in your braces and protect you from plaque buildup or tooth decay.

Brush, But Don’t Overdo It:

Should you be brushing more often with braces? Absolutely, but don’t overdo it. Having braces doesn’t require you to be brushing upwards of ten times a day. It also doesn’t mean that you should be brushing aggressively.

Be gentle on your mouth. You should never be brushing to the point of feeling any pain or discomfort. A thorough rinse and brush in the morning, at night, and after meals will leave you with the healthy smile of your dreams once your braces are removed.

For more tips on optimal oral health, or to schedule an appointment with Sage Orthodontics of Portage, contact us today. We are here for you.

Sage Orthodontics of Portage
Phone: (269) 327-0760
Url: https://sageorthodontics.com/
1700 E. Centre Ave.
Portage, MI 49002