What is a Palatal Expander, and Why is it Needed? A palatal expander is a dental appliance commonly used to help address various teeth and jaw issues, known as malocclusions. Reasons why a patient might need a palatal expander include: Crossbite: Misalignment of the teeth, when the upper teeth are positioned behind the corresponding lower teeth when the jaws are closed. A palatal expander can correct a crossbite by widening the underlying bone, preventing uneven wear, gum recession, and jaw problems. Crowding: A narrow jaw can lead to inadequate space to align teeth ideally. The expande ..read more

Whether you’re considering braces for yourself or a loved one, the excitement and anticipation of achieving a beautiful smile may be overshadowed by the practical consideration of cost. The financial aspect of orthodontic treatment is a critical consideration that varies widely and no two patients are alike. Treatment costs are influenced by factors such as the type, complexity, and duration of the orthodontic treatment. Orthodontic treatment is an investment, not just in terms of money but also in your health and self-esteem. In this article, the American Association of Orthodontists outlines ..read more

You may have seen a trend online about mewing, a non-medical term that describes a do-it-yourself “facial restructuring” method. While tongue posture plays a role in facial development, mewing’s promises may be as inflated as some Instagram filters. Let’s dive into the science behind the hype, the potential pitfalls, and why consulting an American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) orthodontist is always the safest bet for a smile you’ll truly love. What is Mewing? Mewing, a technique that has gone “viral” online, is the movement of flattening your tongue against the roof of your mouth in an a ..read more

Dealing with SmileDirectClub’s abrupt closure may leave you with many questions and concerns. The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) understands how important it is to have a reliable support system, especially when it comes to your health and well-being. If you find yourself in a situation where you are left without treatment options and no one to turn to for help from your current provider, we want you to know that you are not alone. The AAO is here for you, ready to provide assistance and guidance. The AAO is comprised of highly trained and experienced orthodontic specialists dedic ..read more

Worried your braces might ruin your Halloween fun? Spooky thought – but never fear! Enjoying good candy with braces is still an option. But first, avoid damaging your braces and risking your successful orthodontic treatment by learning which candy might loosen the brackets attached to your teeth. Candies to avoid with braces These candies may damage orthodontic appliances and can really set your orthodontic treatment back. Steer clear of: Caramels Taffy Hard candy Chewy candy Jellybeans Licorice Bubble gum Lollipops Sour candy Popcorn Nuts Candies you can eat with braces Softer, melt-in-your ..read more

Do straight teeth matter?  Of course, straight teeth matter, but it’s much more than that. Teeth are like gears on a wheel. They are made to fit together in a certain way to do a certain job. If they don’t fit together, they can’t do their job, which may lead to various oral health problems. For starters, straight teeth are easier to clean. You can remove plaque more easily when teeth are aligned. Crooked teeth offer more places for plaque to hide and get missed when brushing. Plaque buildup can result in cavities, gum inflammation (puffiness and bleeding), and gum disease. Even if your f ..read more

The AAO Consumer Awareness Campaign (CAP) “Straight Talk” series concludes with a video featuring a patient on the day of the removal of their braces, titled “The Best Day Ever.” The video features Dr. Jacquee Schiek, an AAO orthodontist, who reminds the patient, Tim, that the process of moving his teeth was a complex biological one, and that his initial examination played a crucial role in developing the best treatment plan for him. While Tim’s smile looks amazing, Dr. Schiek emphasizes the importance of the planning and effort that went into achieving it.  It’s a common misconception th ..read more

In short, no, you are never too old for orthodontic treatment. Your orthodontist considers many variables when developing your customized treatment plan, but age is rarely a deciding factor. Orthodontic treatment can be as successful for adults as it is for adolescents. In fact, one in three orthodontic patients is an adult. Don’t let your age keep you from consulting an AAO orthodontist. Adults’ teeth can be moved, too. Whether you’re 8 or 80, it’s the same physiological process that moves teeth through bone. Teeth move in response to forces being placed on them over time. Many orthodont ..read more

The AAO’s newest video educates consumers about the importance of receiving treatment from an orthodontist by highlighting the educational difference between a dentist and an orthodontist. Who will accept the Golden Aligner? Watch the decision play out in the third video in the Consumer Awareness Program Straight Talk series. In this video, Dr. Enrique Cruz is chosen to treat the patient because of his specialized education and training.   People often wonder what the difference is between an orthodontist and a dentist. Both dentists and orthodontists work on teeth, provide professio ..read more

Straight teeth provide more than a great smile. Teeth are like gears on a wheel. They are made to fit together in a certain way to do a certain job. If they don’t fit together, they can’t do their job, which may lead to various oral health problems. For starters, straight teeth are easier to clean. You can remove plaque more easily when teeth are aligned. Crooked teeth offer more places for plaque to hide and get missed when brushing. Plaque buildup can result in cavities, gum inflammation (puffiness and bleeding), and gum disease. Even if your front teeth appear straight, there can be a probl ..read more