Two-Phase Treatment
At Hansen Orthodontics, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive orthodontic care that addresses not only the straightness of teeth but also the overall symmetry and aesthetics of your child’s face. This is why we proudly offer two-phase orthodontic treatment. This treatment approach, designed for children, is a specialized process that involves two separate stages of treatment to improve the health and appearance of your child’s smile.
Two-phase treatment aims to ensure proper jaw alignment and dental arch width, setting the stage for the permanent teeth to erupt correctly. While it might seem early, beginning orthodontic work as soon as issues are identified can significantly simplify treatment and lead to better outcomes.
Phase One: The Foundation Phase
The first phase of the two-phase treatment focuses on the jaw and bone structure. It’s often termed the “Foundation Phase” because it lays the groundwork for the future eruption of permanent teeth.
During this phase, we utilize various orthodontic appliances to guide the growth of the jaw bones, ensuring that they align properly. This early intervention can prevent more severe problems from developing and may limit or even eliminate the need for extractions or surgical procedures later in life.
It’s important to note that during this phase, we do not typically use braces or other similar appliances since the child’s permanent teeth are still emerging. Instead, we focus on creating a healthier environment for these new teeth.
Resting Period: Waiting for Growth
Following Phase One, there’s a resting period where no active orthodontic treatment occurs. During this time, we allow the rest of the permanent teeth to come in naturally. Regular check-ups will be scheduled to monitor the progress and ensure the remaining permanent teeth are erupting correctly.
This resting period is crucial in the two-phase treatment, allowing for natural growth and development to occur without interruption.
Phase Two: The Alignment Phase
Phase Two commences once most of the permanent teeth have erupted. This phase is commonly referred to as the “Alignment Phase”. It typically involves full upper and lower braces or other orthodontic appliances to align the teeth correctly.
This phase can last up to two years, depending on the individual needs of the patient. We carefully move the teeth into their optimal positions, ensuring a harmonious relationship between the teeth, lips, and face for a balanced profile and beautiful smile.
Once the braces are removed, retainers will need to be worn. These appliances help to maintain the new position of the teeth and safeguard the hard work accomplished during the two-phase treatment.
At Hansen Orthodontics, our goal is to provide your child with a healthy, functional, and aesthetically pleasing smile that will last a lifetime. If your dentist recommends orthodontic work or if you have concerns about your child’s teeth or jaw alignment, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help guide you through the process and ensure the best possible results for your child’s smile.
TMJ/TMD Treatment
At Hansen Orthodontics, we believe in providing comprehensive care that extends beyond straightening your teeth. One of the specialized services we offer is treatment for Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMD), a condition affecting the joint that connects your jaw to your skull.
Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMD) refer to a group of conditions that cause pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and the muscles controlling jaw movement1. They can significantly impact your quality of life, making everyday activities like chewing, talking, or even yawning painful.
Symptoms of TMD
While symptoms may vary, common signs of TMD include:
- Pain or tenderness in your jaw
- Difficulty or discomfort while chewing
- Aching pain around your ear
- Facial pain or discomfort
- Difficulty opening or closing your mouth
- Locking of the jaw joint
- Clicking or grinding sounds when moving the jaw
Orthodontic Treatment for TMD
Orthodontics can play a crucial role in treating TMD by addressing issues related to the alignment of your teeth and jaw. Here’s how we can help:
Correcting Malocclusion
Malocclusion, or misaligned teeth, can contribute to TMD by placing extra stress on the jaw joint. Through orthodontic treatments such as braces or Invisalign, we can correct your bite, alleviating the pressure on your jaw and potentially reducing TMD symptoms.
Using Orthotic Devices
Orthotic devices, or splints, are custom-made appliances that fit over your upper or lower teeth. They help position your jaw in a more comfortable alignment, reducing strain on the joint and alleviating TMD pain.
Guiding Jaw Growth
For younger patients with developing jaws, growth modification devices can help guide the jaw into a healthier position, potentially preventing TMD in the future.
Personalized TMD Treatment at Hansen Orthodontics
At Hansen Orthodontics, we understand that every patient’s needs are unique. We provide personalized, comprehensive treatment plans for TMD, using the latest techniques and technologies to ensure optimal results.
Accelerated Treatment
At Hansen Orthodontics, we understand that time is precious. That’s why we offer Accelerated Orthodontic Treatment options tailored to deliver faster results without compromising on quality or comfort.
Accelerated Orthodontics is an innovative approach to straightening teeth that reduces the typical treatment time by stimulating the body’s natural ability to move teeth faster and more predictably. This approach can significantly decrease treatment time, often cutting it in half compared to traditional orthodontics.
Benefits of Accelerated Orthodontics
Choosing Accelerated Orthodontics at Hansen Orthodontics offers several benefits:
- Shorter Treatment Time — The primary advantage is a reduced treatment timeline, allowing you to achieve your dream smile faster.
- Improved Comfort — Accelerated Orthodontics often involves less force than traditional methods, improving overall comfort during treatment.
- Enhanced Oral Health — Faster treatment times can result in fewer opportunities for plaque build-up, promoting better oral hygiene.
Our Approach to Accelerated Orthodontics
At Hansen Orthodontics, we use state-of-the-art technology and methods to provide Accelerated Orthodontic Treatment. These include:
- Propel Orthodontics — Propel devices stimulate bone remodeling, allowing teeth to move into their desired positions faster.
- VPro5 from Propel — A device used for just five minutes per day, VPro5 uses high-frequency vibrations to complement your orthodontic treatment, helping aligners fit better and teeth move faster.
With Accelerated Orthodontics at Hansen Orthodontics, you don’t have to wait years for your perfect smile. Contact us today to request a free consultation and find out if Accelerated Orthodontic Treatment is right for you.
Airway Orthodontics
At Hansen Orthodontics, we believe that orthodontic care goes beyond creating beautiful smiles. We are proud to offer Airway Orthodontics, a holistic approach that not only enhances your smile but also promotes better breathing and overall health.
Airway Orthodontics is a specialized branch of orthodontic care that focuses on how your oral structures impact your ability to breathe. It addresses oral and facial development issues that can restrict the airway, leading to problems like sleep apnea, snoring, and other breathing difficulties.
The Importance of Airway Orthodontics
- Improved Breathing — By expanding the palate or adjusting the position of the jaws, we can effectively widen the airway, making breathing easier.
- Better Sleep — Improving airway function can help alleviate conditions like sleep apnea and snoring, leading to more restful sleep.
- Enhanced Overall Health — Proper breathing is essential for optimal health. By improving airway function, we can positively impact your cardiovascular health, cognitive function, and overall quality of life.
Our Approach to Airway Orthodontics
At Hansen Orthodontics, we use cutting-edge technology and techniques to provide individualized Airway Orthodontic treatment:
- Comprehensive Evaluation — We use advanced imaging techniques to assess your oral structures and identify any potential airway issues.
- Personalized Treatment Plan — Based on our evaluation, we design a treatment plan tailored to address your unique needs. This could involve traditional braces, clear aligners, or other orthodontic appliances that help improve jaw alignment and enhance airway function.
- Collaborative Care — If necessary, we work closely with other healthcare providers, such as ENT specialists or sleep physicians, to ensure a comprehensive approach to your airway health.
At Hansen Orthodontics, we’re committed to helping you breathe easier and live healthier. Contact us today to learn more about Airway Orthodontics and how it can benefit you.
Surgical Orthodontics
Welcome to Hansen Orthodontics, where we believe in creating beautiful smiles through comprehensive and individualized care. One of the specialized services we offer is Surgical Orthodontics, a combination of orthodontic treatment and oral surgery.
Understanding Surgical Orthodontics
Surgical Orthodontics, also known as orthognathic surgery, is a type of orthodontic treatment used to correct severe cases that include bad bites, jaw bone abnormalities, and malocclusion. It’s often considered when non-surgical treatment cannot fully correct the problem. If you need to have surgical orthodontics, your orthodontist will work with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon to make sure that you can get the smile you deserve.
Surgical orthodontics helps patients improve their bites, though it can also help with other aesthetic concerns. Surgery can be completed only after the jaw is finished growing. This typically happens by age sixteen for females and age eighteen for males.
Surgery is needed when the jaws do not line up correctly and no amount of braces can correct the misalignment. We will line up your jaw correctly so that your braces can do the job that they are meant to. Surgery is not always necessary, so it is important to discuss your case with an oral surgeon. They will be able to discuss your treatment options, whether or not they include surgery.
After surgery, you will need to rest for about two weeks. It is a major surgery and you should take some time off of work and school while you heal. After you heal, your orthodontist will work on straightening your teeth. Most people have to wear braces for six months to a year after surgery. Then, you will need a retainer to maintain your beautiful smile.
Surgical orthodontics not only improves facial aesthetics but can also have a positive impact on long-term health by improving breathing, chewing, and speaking. It can also enhance self-esteem and confidence by creating a beautiful, functional smile.
Start Your Journey with Hansen Orthodontics
At Hansen Orthodontics, we’re committed to providing personalized, high-quality orthodontic care. If you’re considering surgical orthodontics, our team is here to guide you every step of the way, from initial consultation to post-surgery follow-ups.
Common Appliances
At Hansen Orthodontics, we believe in providing exceptional care tailored to your unique needs. Our team uses state-of-the-art equipment and a variety of orthodontic appliances to create the perfect smile for you.
Since each smile is different, we will make an individualized treatment plan depending on your needs. We can use one appliance or a variety of them.
Temporary Anchorage Devices (TADs)
Temporary Anchorage Devices, or TADs, are small, screw-like dental implants made of a bio-compatible titanium alloy. They provide a fixed point from which to apply force to move teeth predictably and efficiently. At Hansen Orthodontics, our skilled team uses TADs as part of a comprehensive orthodontic treatment plan to ensure optimal results.
Palatal Expander
A Palatal Expander is an appliance designed to widen the upper jaw, creating more space for teeth to align properly. It can also improve breathing and correct issues like crossbite. At Hansen Orthodontics, we use this device as part of our commitment to Airway Orthodontics, ensuring not only a beautiful smile but better overall health.
Herbst Appliance
The Herbst Appliance is used to correct an overbite by encouraging the lower jaw to catch up in growth3. This fixed appliance is often preferred over headgear for its efficiency and ease of use. At Hansen Orthodontics, we offer the Herbst Appliance as part of our comprehensive suite of treatment options, always prioritizing your comfort and the effectiveness of the treatment.
You can always expect top-rated care from our friendly and dedicated team. At Hansen Orthodontics, we’re not just about creating beautiful smiles — we’re about ensuring your orthodontic experience is comfortable and even enjoyable. Contact us today to learn more about our common orthodontic appliances and how they can help you love your smile.
Mouthguards
At Hansen Orthodontics, we understand the importance of protecting your teeth. One of the ways to ensure this protection is through the use of mouthguards. With several types available, we’re here to help you understand and choose the best one for you.
Mouthguards are protective coverings worn over teeth, primarily used to prevent injury from teeth grinding or during sports. While they typically cover the upper teeth, there are instances where they may be used for the lower teeth as well.
Custom-Made Mouthguards
Custom-made mouthguards offer the best fit and protection. Tailored to your teeth and jaws by a dental professional, these mouthguards provide superior comfort and safeguard against injuries.
Nightguards for Bruxism
If you grind your teeth at night, a condition known as bruxism, a nightguard can help prevent damage to your teeth. These are usually custom-made for optimal fit and comfort.
Choosing the Right Mouthguard
The choice of mouthguard depends on your specific needs. At Hansen Orthodontics, we provide expert guidance to help you select the right type of mouthguard, ensuring maximum protection and comfort.
Remember, a mouthguard is a small investment towards preserving your beautiful smile. Contact us today to discuss the best mouthguard options for you.
Retainers
Orthodontic treatment doesn’t end once your braces are removed or your aligners are done. At Hansen Orthodontics, we emphasize the importance of the retention phase — where retainers come into play — to ensure your beautiful smile lasts a lifetime.
Orthodontic retention is the final phase of your orthodontic journey. Once your teeth have been moved into their ideal positions, they need time to settle into the soft tissue and jawbone surrounding them. Retainers help maintain the new position of your teeth and prevent them from shifting back to their original locations.
In-House (Essex)
At Hansen Orthodontics, we offer in-house Essex Retainers, which are clear, removable retainers custom-made to fit over your teeth. Made from a durable plastic material, these retainers are comfortable, barely noticeable, and easy to remove for eating and cleaning.
Vivera (Invisalign)
Vivera Retainers from Invisalign are made with the same state-of-the-art technology used to make Invisalign aligners. They’re clear, custom-fit to your teeth, and 30% stronger than other clear retainers, ensuring your smile stays exactly as you want it.
Bonded
Bonded Retainers are attached directly to the inside surface of your teeth, making them invisible from the outside. These fixed retainers are perfect if you want a ‘fit and forget’ option, as they provide continuous, 24/7 retention without any effort on your part.
Hawley
Hawley Retainers are one of the most well-known types of retainers. They consist of a custom-made, acrylic base that fits over the roof of your mouth, connected to a wire that wraps around your teeth. These retainers are durable, adjustable, and can even be personalized with a variety of colors and patterns.
Retainers are the key to maintaining the results of your orthodontic treatment. At Hansen Orthodontics, we’re committed to helping you find the perfect retainer that fits your lifestyle and preferences. Contact us today to learn more about our retainer options and start protecting your beautiful smile.
Emergency Care
Here at Hansen Orthodontics, we are dedicated to patient care, especially in the case of an emergency.
Orthodontic emergencies may be rare, but we are ready and willing to help you whenever you are having trouble with your braces. Any time you have pain, whether it is a painful tooth or appliance, it is important to contact us. Many problems can be solved simply at home, though we always have appointments if you need help. You can do a few things at home to ensure that we will be able to fix your braces right away.
- If a wire falls off, place it in a bag until you are able to come to our office.
- If something is irritating your gums, place soft wax on any part of your braces that is sticking out.
- If the wire has moved, you may be able to move it back with needle-nosed pliers.
Whether you can fix the problem or not, it is very important to let us know what is happening. We may need to take a look at your braces to see if we need to do any repair work on them so that they will continue to work as they should.
Helpful Tips For Common Emergencies
- You may also want to rinse your mouth with a warm, saltwater mouthwash. You can dissolve one teaspoonful of salt in eight ounces of warm water and use the mixture to rinse your mouth out. You can also use the Healthy Gums Rinse by The Natural Dentist.
- Many people like to use Orabase on their sore gums to help with the discomfort. This product is available at the pharmacy. You may also use over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol). It is not helpful to take aspirin, ibuprofen (Motrin and Advil), or naproxen sodium (Aleve, Naprosyn, Anaprox) because they slow the movement of the teeth.
- You should use wax to address the irritation caused by your new braces so that your mouth can get used to the feeling of them.
- If you are not wearing your headgear the way you should be, you may have some discomfort. It is important to wear your headgear as often as requested so that you will get the results you deserve. You will get used to wearing it, and it will stop causing you discomfort the more you wear it.
- If you are having a lot of discomfort, make sure that your facebow (the metal piece) is not bent. If it is, we can help you straighten it out so it is more comfortable.
- Any time that you have a loose appliance, apply wax on it so that it won’t cause you discomfort until we are able to fix it.
- If you have a loose bracket, it is important that you leave it in place the best that you can. You can put wax on it so that it doesn’t irritate your gums until you are able to be seen. If it comes off, put it in a bag or envelope so that you can bring it with you to your next visit.
- If you have a loose wire, you might be able to use tweezers or needle-nosed pliers to try to put the wire back into place. If needed, you can use floss to tie the wire into place until you are able to come into our office.
- If you can’t get it to stay and it is really causing you problems, you can clip it off with a fingernail clipper. Place wax over the end to protect your mouth. This should be used only as a last resort since it will require us to make significant repairs to your braces when you come into our office.
- If you have a wire poking you, you can push it down with a pencil eraser or use wax until you can be seen.
