The Key to Orthodontic Crossbite Correction | Portage MI Orthodontist

It is not too much to ask for a beautiful smile and an enjoyable chewing experience. However, for some people, it is not so easy. Some children are born with crossbites. This is a misalignment of the teeth. It may affect your front teeth or your back teeth. The symptoms of each patient vary.

A crossbite causes your upper teeth to be hidden behind your lower teeth and vice versa. Biting and smiling can be challenging when you have a crossbite. However, modern bite correction options are available to correct this problem, including braces.

What causes a crossbite?

A crossbite occurs when the upper jaw sits inside the lower jaw. Crossbites can be treated by an orthodontist in a variety of ways, all of which are feasible. You might be self-conscious about your smile as well as find eating difficult. Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD) is one of the potentially serious cases. A TMD disorder may cause earaches, jaw pain or discomfort, headaches, and problems with the muscles of the jaw. Our orthodontist can find the root cause of the problem and can prevent TMD and other consequences that affect your dental health and overall well-being.

Types of crossbites

The two types of dental crossbites are anterior and posterior. An anterior crossbite occurs when the incisors are located within the lower jaw. In the posterior crossbite, the back of the jaw is affected and can cause pain and discomfort. A posterior crossbite affects 16% of children, while an anterior crossbite affects only 4–5% of them.

What are the issues caused by crossbites?

Genetics is the most common cause of crossbite in children. The cause is usually genetically determined by the parents or other close family members. In addition to several common causes of crossbite, such as nail-biting, poor chewing habits, or thumb sucking (a frequent childhood habit), it can also be caused by the delayed loss of primary teeth. Having large tonsils or adenoids may aggravate this condition. At your initial consultation, our orthodontist will take x-rays to determine the cause of the crossbite as well as give you advice on how to treat it. 

Effects of crossbites

A misaligned bite can lead to dental issues and bruxism. You may also experience mental or physical issues. This can also lead to jaw muscle tension, tooth decay, and gum disease, which can result in persistent jaw disorders and shoulder, back, and neck pain.

This type of condition must be diagnosed as soon as possible to correct it and prevent future dental and skeletal issues.

Crossbite Treatment

The best time to treat this form of malocclusion is when the patient is a child or in their teens. Adults, on the other hand, can still receive treatment, but it is treated at a much slower pace. According to the American Dental Association, or ADA, an orthodontist should ensure that there is enough room for the teeth to move and that the bite can be enlarged to facilitate the shift. Additionally, the patient will be required to wear an orthodontic appliance during treatment. The following are some common treatment options:

  • Maxillary Expander A device will be attached to the palate and placed on your upper teeth by your orthodontist. Using a special key on the device, the maxillary expander gradually widens the upper palate. The device is best suited for children who are still developing their taste buds.
  • Removable Expander An adult can gradually increase the size of their upper palate by using expanders. They are worn every night until the desired results are achieved.
  • Braces Both metal and ceramic braces are effective for treating crossbites or underbites. Using brackets on each tooth and a wire to connect them, your Portage MI orthodontist will move each tooth into its correct alignment, moving the misaligned teeth until the bite is corrected.

During the initial phase of development, orthodontic treatment of a crossbite is much less complicated and cost-effective. Please contact Sage Orthodontics of Portage to schedule an appointment if you are concerned about a possible crossbite.

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

It’s Still Cool to Get Braces…Even as an Adult | Orthodontist Portage

When you were a kid, braces were the coolest! It’s still the same now.

It’s never too late to improve your confidence and self-esteem by correcting any issues with your bite or the alignment of your teeth. Adults often seek orthodontic treatment for problems that extend beyond cosmetic concerns. It doesn’t matter if you’re thinking about changing your smile for aesthetic reasons or to fix long-standing bite and jaw alignment issues, specialized orthodontic treatment can give you a smile that looks and feels great!

With recent advancements in orthodontic treatment, there are more options available to adults. These treatments are effective, less noticeable, and more comfortable than ever before. If you are considering orthodontic treatment, our orthodontist will discuss which options best suit your lifestyle, needs, and goals.

Conventional metal braces

Even though the thought of metal braces as an adult may not appeal to everyone, conventional braces for adults provide exceptional treatment outcomes and may be the best option for specific types of orthodontic concerns. Modern braces are smaller and more comfortable than ever before, and more and more adults choose traditional metal braces because of their fast results.

Ceramic braces

For adults who desire the benefits of traditional braces but wish to receive treatment more discreetly, ceramic braces are also a popular option. With ceramic braces, metal braces are replaced with tooth-colored composite brackets, which mimic your natural tooth color. Ceramic braces are susceptible to staining just like your natural teeth are, so you must clean them thoroughly.

Invisalign

Treatment with Invisalign clear aligners, the most popular option for adults, uses a 3D image of your teeth to create a series of custom-fit trays that gradually shift your teeth and jaw to the desired position. The most discreet form of orthodontic treatment could be the perfect solution if you’re concerned about the visibility of your orthodontic appliances.

In what ways does orthodontic treatment differ for adults?

As with children and teens, orthodontic treatment for adults involves gently pushing teeth into their desired positions over time using their orthodontic devices. In adults, however, teeth and jawbones are no longer developing, so treatment may take longer than it does for younger patients with less bone density.

Smoking, tongue thrusting when swallowing, and clenching or grinding your teeth can also affect the length and outcome of adult orthodontic treatment. For severe cases, your orthodontist may need to consult your dentist or enlist the help of a specialist.

Why should adults consider orthodontic treatment?

Is there value in having a confident, healthy smile in your everyday life, at special events like weddings, or in your career?

Through specialized orthodontic treatment with braces or Invisalign clear aligners, individuals can achieve an improved smile that will improve their quality of life and psychological well-being. Researchers have shown that healthy, straight smiles inspire confidence and self-esteem in relationships, social settings, business, and your career and that individuals who are embarrassed by crowded or crooked teeth don’t smile as much as those with perfect teeth.

The result of a bad bite, known as malocclusion, can cause abnormal jaw pain and pressure. If left untreated, it can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, difficulty chewing, and abnormal wear of the tooth enamel. In addition, you may experience headaches, migraines, and pain in your jaw. These problems are alleviated with skilled orthodontic treatment, which eliminates the tension that causes pain.

Additionally, orthodontic treatment may be able to improve your ability to chew and speak, as well as help with sleep apnea. Straight teeth and proper jaw alignment are essential to your overall health and well-being.

By investing in orthodontic treatment, you can drastically reduce the amount of money you’ll spend on dental and health care throughout your lifetime. You’ll get to enjoy a healthier, more comfortable bite, avoid lifelong pain, and smile with confidence.

How will braces change my appearance?

Braces typically affect facial structure less in adults than in teens who are still growing, although you will notice a more balanced appearance after treatment. The greater the imbalance at the start, the greater the result will be. Rest assured, you will still look like yourself!

When planning your treatment, it’s vital to work with a highly qualified orthodontist. The specialized expertise and precision of our orthodontist will ensure that you get both aesthetic and functional benefits. Contact our orthodontic office today to schedule a consultation appointment.

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

Understanding the Need for Two Phases of Braces | Orthodontist in Portage MI


When your child needs braces, you’ll discover there are many different ways orthodontists can make sure your child has the perfect smile. A two-phase treatment encourages gradual changes that correspond with a child’s different growth phases. As a result of early intervention, this treatment method can help reduce the need for invasive corrections, such as extractions of adult teeth.

Age plays a significant role in determining your child’s eligibility for two-phase orthodontic treatment. The majority of children who need early orthodontic care will need to be referred to an orthodontist around age seven or eight to assess their treatment options. When it comes to braces for kids, their rate of growth can have a huge impact on the effectiveness of the treatment. 

With two stages of treatment, an orthodontist can use noninvasive devices to promote healthy jawbone growth before fitting braces. The process allows for earlier treatment of problems identified during dental exams.

Phase 1

During this first stage, your child will receive any care that is needed to properly prepare the teeth and jaw for braces. To support proper jaw growth, your orthodontist will determine the best approach. The goal of this phase is to ensure the upper and lower jaws grow large enough to accommodate the permanent teeth. Additionally, the first stage of treatment centers around eliminating issues that could affect your child’s bite, tooth spacing, and overall dental health. For example, a palatal crib can be used to prevent your child from developing an abnormal bite from thumb sucking, which may still happen at a young age.

Using proven dental appliances, your orthodontist can intervene in developing bite issues. In some cases, your child may need palatal expanders to correct bite issues by widening the upper jaw. An orthodontist can adjust the upper jaw width correctly by using these adjustable expanders based on your child’s growth. Patients with underdeveloped jaws and crowded teeth are often treated with palatal expanders in phase 1. Other indications for phase 1 treatment are less common and should be evaluated by an expert.

Your child may need to wear a retainer to maintain his or her results after completing the first phase of treatment.

Phase 2

Phase two begins once your child’s adult teeth have fully erupted. As part of phase two, orthodontists adjust the spacing between teeth. To achieve this goal, braces are usually placed on the upper and lower teeth to facilitate their gradual movement into the correct position. Depending on your child’s orthodontic treatment goals, braces may need to be on their teeth for up to 24 months. 

As your child’s braces or aligners move teeth into their correct positions, they will periodically need to be adjusted. We will arrange regular adjustment appointments for your child to ensure treatment progress. During this phase, please make sure that your child is properly caring for their braces. Many children need to wear retainers to keep their teeth in their new positions after braces are removed. Depending on your child’s needs, it may be necessary to wear the retainer around the clock or only at night.

Two-phase orthodontics gently corrects your child’s bite and tooth spacing issues. Your child will feel less discomfort during and after an orthodontic adjustment if there are gradual shifts in tooth placement and jaw width. As a result, the patient experience improves across the board, which leads to your child remaining focused and enthusiastic about the outcome.

We want your child’s experience with braces to be positive. To schedule an appointment, please call our orthodontic office today.

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

Getting The Facts Straight About Retainers | Portage MI Orthodontist

Straight teeth can be achieved with braces, but how can they be maintained once they are removed?

If you want to maintain the position of your straightened teeth, you must wear your retainer for at least 12 hours per day for the first eight weeks following the completion of your orthodontic treatment. When your teeth have been moved to a new position, diligent wear is crucial as the teeth are the least stable during this time. Following the completion of eight weeks of wearing your retainers for half of each day, with the approval of your orthodontist, you can begin wearing them at night only.

There are several types of retainers that may be recommended for you:

  • Clear Retainers: This is a clear plastic removable retainer similar to teeth whitening trays. They are invisible and less likely to affect your speech than traditional retainers.
  • Traditional Retainers: These are acrylic or wire-based removable appliances that are fitted to the roof of your mouth; the wire runs along the outside of your teeth to keep them in their proper position. Although this is a more durable option, it is also more noticeable than other options.
  • Permanent Retainer: This type of retainer consists of a wire that is bonded to the inside of your front teeth (usually the lower ones) to hold them in place. Patients at high risk of relapse or those who are likely to ignore instructions for wearing removable retainers are often prescribed permanent retainers.

In addition to keeping your teeth straight, retainers provide many other benefits. Aligned teeth are easier to clean. They are less likely to develop tooth decay because plaque is less likely to accumulate. Certain types of retainers can help improve breathing and snoring. Children can wear retainers to help them adjust the placement of their tongues, which can reduce speech impediments. Orthodontists help treat many of these problems.

Maintaining retainers

Maintain your retainers’ cleanliness by brushing them every day with toothpaste. Be sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean the entire area. Ensure that the wires aren’t bent out of place when handling them.

Take care of your retainer, and it will take care of you when you complete your orthodontic treatment. The retention phase begins when you remove your braces. Your retainer is considered the maintenance phase of your orthodontic treatment. Yes, you do need to wear your retainer forever. During the first few months, you will need to wear it 24/7. Your teeth will then be locked into place, but you’ll still need to wear your retainer at night. This will make sure that your teeth don’t shift back to their natural positions, which is known as “relapse.” Your retainer should be one of the most important components of your orthodontic treatment plan. 

We invite you to contact Sage Orthodontics of Portage for more information about retainers or to schedule an appointment with our Portage Orthodontist.

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

Brushing After Eating: Is it Necessary? | Portage MI Orthodontist

A tooth’s enamel is the hardest material in your body and your teeth are its guardians. A healthy mouth is the first line of defense against harmful bacteria that can cause tooth decay. You create bacteria when you eat certain foods, which attack the enamel of your teeth. For example, carbohydrates and sugary foods flood the enamel. Brushing your teeth immediately following a meal can damage your enamel.

Why is this harmful?

Your mouth’s pH level changes when you consume liquids and food. When you eat acidic foods, you raise the pH balance until it reaches a level where demineralization occurs. By causing the enamel to soften, the new acidity can allow bacteria to penetrate your teeth. After eating, brushing your teeth may harm your enamel. It would be best to protect your enamel because enamel protects your teeth.

Protect your enamel by following these steps:

After eating anything acidic, wait at least 30 minutes before brushing your teeth. 

A good example is citrus fruits. It is a good idea to brush before consuming acidic foods or drinks.

You can remove acids by drinking water. You can follow this up by chewing sugarless gum. When these steps are followed, saliva can help restore the pH balance needed for a healthy smile.

Limit your soda intake to avoid permanent damage from phosphoric acid.

Maintaining optimal oral health requires brushing twice a day. 

Was it taught that you should brush your teeth directly after eating? This may seem like the right habit to adopt, but it could be detrimental to your dental health. It may be better to rinse your mouth with water after eating to maintain healthy enamel. We can provide you with tips for maintaining healthy, strong teeth if you come to Sage Orthodontics of Portage for an examination. Get in touch with our Portage Orthodontist today.

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

Do I Have to Wear My Retainer? | Orthodontist in Portage MI

Keeping your teeth straight is crucial in the period following the removal of your braces. Maintaining the smile you have worked so hard for is best achieved with a retainer worn as directed by our team. Wearing your retainer may help keep your teeth from shifting back to their original positions. What can happen if you do not wear a retainer after braces treatment? Learn more in the following paragraphs.

Within one week.

Once your braces are removed, your teeth will move back into their original positions. There are different rates of tooth movement, and even slight shifts in your teeth can affect how your retainer functions. It is essential to wear your retainer at night during the first week to prevent any relapses. 

A month later.

When you don’t wear your retainer for one month, you may find your bite has changed, and your teeth have begun to move back into their previous alignment. A second appointment will need to be scheduled to get you fitted for another retainer at this point. Additionally, you may be required to wear your retainer during the daytime and at night. 

One year later.

If you skip a retainer, your teeth will have returned to their original position, and maybe even be crooked after one year. You might need to restart your orthodontic treatment. You can prevent this from happening if you wear your retainer as instructed. 

Wearing a retainer after removing your braces can help keep your teeth straight. If you stop wearing your retainer, the smile you worked hard to achieve will disappear. In the long run, you will see that it is worth the effort to get into the habit of wearing a retainer.

If you want more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact us.

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

Can My Braces Cause Swollen Gums? | Portage MI Orthodontist

No matter how old you are, braces are a safe and effective way to straighten your teeth. Although you cannot see your teeth moving, constant, steady pressure caused by braces causes changes in your gums and jaw bone as your teeth move. Occasionally, some patients may experience minor side effects, such as gum irritation. If your gums are red, sore, or swollen, determine the cause and seek treatment as soon as possible.

It may be difficult to maintain good oral hygiene when wearing braces. This results in plaque building up and causing gingivitis, damaging the gums and causing them to swell and bleed. While wearing braces, if you notice your gums are red, swollen, or bleeding when you brush, this is indicative of infection and an inflammatory reaction. Hormone changes make children and teenagers more likely to develop gum disease. Additionally, it makes it harder to clean teeth and gums.

Swollen gums are a common occurrence when you first get braces. You may feel that your gums are sensitive while wearing braces. In some circumstances, metal brackets and wires can increase gum size due to hypertrophy or hyperplasia. When your orthodontic treatment is complete and your braces are removed, your gums will likely return to normal.

Wearing braces requires you to take dietary precautions. Some dietary habits are known to cause orthodontic appliances to break and increase the risk of dental decay. You should avoid eating anything hard or crunchy, such as raw vegetables and popcorn, which can irritate your gums. While wearing braces, limit foods and drinks that may cause dental caries (cavities). Your orthodontist will inform you of dietary restrictions while you are under their care.

Here are a few steps you can take to alleviate swelling and inflammation in your gums:

  • Get an electric toothbrush with an orthodontic head to thoroughly clean your teeth.
  • Clean between your teeth with a water flosser.
  • Interproximal brushes and floss threaders clean around and under wires better than toothbrushes.
  • You might want to consider mouthwash containing fluoride or antimicrobials.
  • To relieve inflammation in the mouth, rinse with warm water containing a pinch of salt.
  • Smoking and alcohol aggravate inflammation further.

To achieve the best results from your orthodontic treatment, it is important to make a conscious effort to maintain healthy oral hygiene habits. If you have a high risk of periodontal disease, your orthodontist may wait to begin orthodontic treatment until your teeth and gums are healthy. 

We invite you to call our orthodontic office and schedule an appointment if you have any questions or would like more information.

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

The Disadvantages of Misaligned Teeth | Portage MI Orthodontist

If you have uneven teeth, you may be considering orthodontic options to improve your smile. Straightening your teeth can do more than just boost your confidence. It is important to consult with an orthodontist if your teeth are not aligned properly. 

People often fail to realize how the health of their mouths affects the health of their bodies overall. Poor oral health puts you at greater risk for heart attacks, strokes, illnesses, miscarriages, and more. Having misaligned teeth makes it harder to take care of your mouth properly, increasing your risk of oral health problems. The following are some of the most common problems caused by misaligned teeth: Contact our office today if any of these symptoms affect you.

Gum disease

In comparison to straight teeth, it is harder to keep uneven teeth clean. If you don’t brush and floss regularly, you are more likely to get gum disease. In many adults, plaque buildup can cause gingivitis and periodontal disease, which can lead to tooth loss. When your gums are swollen or inflamed, bacteria may be released into your bloodstream, which can cause inflammation and increase your risk of strokes, heart attacks, etc.

Make sure you see your dentist twice a year for cleanings and examinations and maintain good oral hygiene. 

Jaw discomfort/TMD TMJ

If you have misaligned teeth or an abnormal bite, your chances of developing temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) may be increased. Even though most TMD cases are caused by teeth grinding and clenching, a misaligned bite can also contribute to the condition. In addition to jaw pain and discomfort, TMD can also cause headaches and other symptoms such as clicking sounds while chewing. 

You may need TMD treatment if you have been experiencing jaw pain. An orthodontist can help determine if this condition requires treatment. By correcting a misaligned bite, TMD patients can experience less pain.

Enamel Erosion

Tooth enamel is a complex and thin coating covering the surface of the tooth that prevents it from being chipped or worn away. Grinding your teeth is a common cause of enamel loss, but various environmental factors contribute as well. Simple actions such as speaking and chewing can grind your teeth together if they are uneven and your bite isn’t aligned correctly. Eventually, this will wear away your teeth’s enamel, making them appear discolored, more sensitive, and more likely to crack and chip. The enamel of your teeth can be protected at home in many ways, including drinking plenty of water, avoiding excessively acidic and sugary foods, and brushing and flossing as directed by your dentist. The alignment of your teeth may limit your ability to prevent enamel erosion on your own.

Orthodontists can help you improve the alignment of your teeth and smile. Please contact our orthodontics office to find out whether orthodontic treatment is right for you.

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

Maintaining Your Retainer | Best Orthodontist Portage

Are you going days, or even weeks, without cleaning your retainer? A retainer has the same bacteria as your mouth and, if not cleaned daily, is almost equivalent to not brushing your teeth for weeks. You accumulate bacteria throughout the day, which can lead to bad breath, gingivitis, and cavities. If you want to practice good oral hygiene, your orthodontist recommends following these tips.

Clean your retainer with toothpaste.

You should brush your retainer at night when you brush your teeth. Once it becomes a habit, brushing it won’t seem like an extra step. To achieve the best results, use non-whitening toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Maintaining the integrity of your retainer acrylic is essential through the use of soft toothbrushes and the avoidance of abrasive toothpaste, as repeated scrubbing can cause it to scratch, allowing bacteria to grow. 

It is not enough to just wash it with water.

A simple wash with water won’t get rid of bacteria. Bacteria can be reduced by using water throughout the day, but distilled white vinegar is the best solution. Combine one part vinegar with three parts water in a cup. Soak your retainer for approximately 15 minutes, then gently brush with a soft toothbrush.

Use baking soda.

Aside from whitening retainers, baking soda restores the pH balance in retainers. A paste can be made by mixing half baking soda and half water. When applied to the toothbrush, it will be similar to a light toothpaste. Gently brush your retainer to ensure it is clean. 

Quick mouthwash soaks

In most cases, orthodontists do not recommend mouthwash as a primary way to clean your retainer. However, you can give it a quick soak to kill bacteria and freshen its smell. Mix equal parts of mouthwash and lukewarm water. Alcohol can damage acrylic, so make sure the mouthwash is alcohol-free.

A retainer cleaner bought at the store is an option.

If you decide to use a cleaner, be sure to follow the instructions on the packaging. Stores sell cleaners specifically designed for cleaning retainers. Your orthodontist can recommend a cleaner, and you should follow the directions on the packaging.

By keeping your retainer clean, you are maintaining your oral health. Maintaining your retainer using the methods we have discussed above will help you avoid potential health problems caused by bacteria. Consult your orthodontist about which cleaning option would be best for you. We invite you to schedule an appointment with our orthodontist today.

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

The Risks of Braces | 49002 Orthodontist

Braces are a common rite of passage for many people, and, thankfully, they have become more comfortable over the years. People generally have few problems with their braces outside of the expected minor discomfort. However, depending on your lifestyle, there are potential risks to consider. Below are some common issues that you might experience and tips on how to avoid them.

Injuries to the Mouth 

Most people know the importance of wearing a mouthguard when participating in high-impact sports such as football or hockey. However, when you have braces, even a fall from running can pose a threat to your lips and soft tissues. Ask our doctor about getting a mouthguard for all physical activity as it will act as a safeguard and protect your lips and cheeks from potential damage.

Increased Risk of Tooth Decay

When you have braces, it’s important to still practice proper oral hygiene. Since flossing and careful brushing require greater effort, it can be easy to slack off in these areas. However, doing so will only further complicate your treatment and damage your teeth. There are plenty of tools at your disposal designed to help you clean around braces, from pre-threaded floss to pressurized water tools. If you’re having difficulty adapting your regular routine, ask the orthodontist about different options that can help.

Hobby-Related Issues 

There are some inconveniences that can arise when trying to add braces into your day-to-day routine. Certain musicians, for example, might experience discomfort when getting used to playing with braces. People who sing or do extensive public speaking might have some minor issues with pronunciation or discomfort caused by your lips rubbing against the metal brackets. 

Most of these issues will fix themselves as you get used to living with braces. However if the discomfort persists, ask your orthodontist about the different relief options you have. 

Most individuals who have braces do not have any long-term complications throughout their treatment. However, there are smaller issues that can arise when you are first adjusting to your braces that can become a big annoyance if left unaddressed. By knowing what to expect and raising any concerns or issues you might have with your orthodontist, you will be much more prepared to tackle these small issues. Contact our office with any questions that you may have.

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