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close up of woman smiling with clear braces

Tomball Orthodontist Answers Common Questions About Clear Braces

Written by Identiwrite on . Posted in Clear Braces.

Embarking on a journey to straighten your teeth is an exciting decision, and with advancements in orthodontic technology, clear braces have become a popular choice for many, and for good reason! Patients can experience all of the benefits of traditional braces without the bulky-metal-bracket look. 

In this blog post, our Tomball, TX, orthodontist, Dr. Wint Tun unravels the mysteries surrounding clear bracket braces by addressing some of the most common questions people ask.

What Are Clear Bracket Braces?

Clear braces, also known as ceramic braces, are orthodontic appliances designed to straighten teeth. They share the same fundamental concept as traditional metal braces but are made from a clear or tooth-colored ceramic material, making them less conspicuous. This aesthetic advantage makes clear bracket braces a popular choice for individuals who want to achieve a straighter smile without the noticeable appearance of traditional metal braces.

How Do Clear Braces Work?

The mechanism of clear bracket braces is similar to that of metal braces. Each tooth has a bracket bonded to its surface, and a wire runs through these brackets. Over time, the tension in the wire gently guides the teeth into their desired positions. While the fundamental process remains the same, the use of clear or tooth-colored materials makes the braces less noticeable.

Are Clear Bracket Braces Suitable for Everyone?

Clear bracket braces are a versatile option for individuals of all ages. They are particularly popular among adults and teenagers who desire a more discreet orthodontic solution. However, the suitability of clear bracket braces depends on the severity of the orthodontic issues. Your orthodontist will assess your specific case and recommend the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Do Clear Bracket Braces Stain?

One common concern with clear bracket braces is the potential for staining. While the brackets themselves are resistant to staining, the ligatures (small bands that hold the wire to the brackets) can absorb color from certain foods and beverages. To minimize the risk of staining, it’s advisable to avoid or limit the consumption of foods and drinks known to cause discoloration, such as coffee, tea, red wine, and dark berries.

How Do I Care for Clear Bracket Braces?

Proper care is essential to ensure the effectiveness of clear bracket braces and maintain good oral hygiene throughout the treatment. Regular brushing and flossing are crucial to prevent plaque buildup around the brackets and wires. Orthodontic-friendly tools like interdental brushes and floss threaders can help clean hard-to-reach areas. Your orthodontist will provide guidance on the best practices for maintaining oral hygiene with clear bracket braces.

Are Clear Bracket Braces More Uncomfortable than Metal Braces?

The discomfort associated with clear bracket braces is comparable to that of metal braces. Initially, you may experience some soreness or discomfort as your teeth adjust to the pressure applied by the braces. Over-the-counter pain relievers and orthodontic wax can help alleviate any discomfort. It’s important to communicate openly with your orthodontist about any concerns or discomfort you may experience during the treatment.

How Long Does the Treatment Take?

The duration of clear bracket braces treatment varies based on individual factors, such as the complexity of the orthodontic issues and how well patients adhere to the orthodontist’s recommendations. On average, clear bracket braces treatment can take anywhere from 18 to 24 months. Your orthodontist will provide a more accurate estimate after a thorough evaluation of your specific case.

Clear Braces in Tomball, TX

Choosing clear bracket braces is a step toward achieving a straighter smile with confidence. By addressing common questions and concerns, we hope to provide valuable insights into the world of clear bracket braces. If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, contact our friendly dental team today at 832-699-3683 today to determine the best option for your individual needs and embark on a journey to a more confident and beautiful smile.

black woman in yellow shirt pointing to straight teeth and holding invisalign clear aligners

The secret to Invisalign® success? Prioritizing oral hygiene.

Written by Identiwrite on . Posted in Invisalign.

When it comes to achieving a radiant and confident grin, Invisalign is the preferred choice for many individuals seeking orthodontic treatment. The clear aligners provide a discreet, comfortable, and convenient way to straighten teeth. However, maintaining proper oral hygiene during Invisalign treatment is crucial for achieving the best results.

Before starting clear aligner therapy, it is best to have your oral health examined by a trained professional, like Dr. Wint Tun. Contact Harmony Orthodontics in Tomball, TX, today at (832) 699-3683 to see if your smile is ready for Invisalign.

In this post, we explore why oral hygiene is so important while on Invisalign and provide tips to help you maintain a healthy and beautiful smile.

1. Preventing Cavities and Gum Disease

One of the most significant benefits of Invisalign is its removable nature, which allows patients to continue eating their favorite foods and practice good oral hygiene. However, if patients neglect proper oral care, their clear aligners can become a breeding ground for harmful bacteria and food particles. These factors can lead to tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease.

To prevent these issues, it’s essential to brush and floss after every meal and rinse the aligners before reinserting them. And, don’t forget – patients must wear their aligner trays for 20 to 22 hours each day for optimal results. 

2. Maintaining Aligner Clarity

Many people love aligners because they are transparent. However, the plastic trays can become cloudy or discolored without proper oral hygiene. This can make them much more noticeable.

To keep aligners clear and inconspicuous, clean them regularly. Our Tomball orthodontist recommends using a soft toothbrush and mild soap or the specialized cleaning crystals provided by Invisalign.

3. Avoiding Bad Breath

Neglecting oral hygiene while wearing clear aligners can also lead to bad breath. Regularly cleaning food particles and bacteria from teeth and aligners helps keep breath fresh and confidence intact.

4. Preventing Aligner Odor

Just as our breath can suffer from poor oral hygiene, so can clear aligners. To avoid this, clean aligners daily and store them in their protective case when not in use. This will help keep them fresh and odor-free.

5. Ensuring Proper Teeth Movement

Maintaining oral hygiene isn’t just about preventing dental problems—it’s also essential for the effectiveness of Invisalign treatment. Clean teeth and gums allow the aligners to fit snugly, ensuring that they can apply the necessary pressure to shift teeth into their desired positions. 

6. Reducing the Risk of Staining

Dentists make aligner trays from a clear plastic material that is susceptible to stains and discoloration if not properly cleaned. So, keep aligners away from pigmented treats, like berries, coffee, tea, or red wine. 

Schedule an Invisalign Consultation in Tomball, TX

Maintaining proper oral hygiene is not just a suggestion — it’s a requirement for a successful Invisalign journey. If you have any questions or concerns about your Invisalign treatment or oral hygiene, don’t hesitate to reach out to our orthodontist in Tomball, TX. The team at Harmony Orthodontics is here to foster your success. So, contact us today! You can schedule a consultation online, or call our crew at (832) 699-3683 for more information.

portrait of african american woman with braces

7 Signs That You Might Benefit From Braces

Written by Identiwrite on . Posted in Metal Braces.

If you’re wondering whether you might need braces, there are several signs to look out for. In this blog, we’ll explore some common signs that indicate you might benefit from orthodontic treatment, including traditional and clear braces.

Want to learn more about braces and other orthodontia? Contact Dr. Wint Tun at Harmony Orthodontics in Tomball, TX, at (832) 699-3683 today!

1. Crooked, Crowded, or Misaligned Teeth

One of the most obvious signs that you might need braces is if your teeth are visibly crooked, crowded, or misaligned. Overlapping or crowded teeth can create hiding spots for food particles and plaque, increasing the risk of cavities and gum disease. Creating a more uniform smile with orthodontia leads to better long-term oral health. 

2. Gaps Between Teeth

Gaps can occur due to various reasons, including genetics, thumb-sucking habits, or missing teeth. If you have noticeable gaps between your teeth (also known as diastemas) it might be a sign that you could benefit from braces. 

3. Overbites or Underbites

Problems with your bite, such as overbites (upper teeth protruding over lower teeth) or underbites (lower teeth extending beyond upper teeth), can affect your oral health and facial appearance. These issues can lead to jaw pain, difficulty chewing, and speech problems. Braces, along with other orthodontic treatments, can help correct these bite abnormalities.

4. Difficulty Chewing or Speaking

If you frequently experience difficulty chewing your food or notice speech problems (such as lisping or difficulty pronouncing certain sounds), it could be due to misaligned teeth or bite issues. Braces can help improve your bite, making it easier to chew and speak without discomfort.

5. Jaw Pain or Discomfort

Jaw pain, headaches, and facial discomfort can be signs of a misaligned bite or other orthodontic issues. Orthodontic treatment can alleviate this pain by correcting the alignment of your teeth and bite.

6. Self-Esteem and Confidence Issues

While not a physical sign, low self-esteem and confidence issues related to your smile are essential factors to consider. If you find yourself hiding your smile or feeling self-conscious about your teeth, braces can be a valuable investment in your self-esteem. A straighter, more attractive smile can boost your confidence and overall well-being.

7. Early Intervention for Children

Some orthodontic problems are best treated at a young age while the jaw is still growing. Early intervention can prevent more severe issues from developing later in life. So, if your child has any of the signs mentioned above, consult with our orthodontist in Tomball, TX, to determine the best course of action.

Affordable Braces in Tomball, TX

Braces aren’t just about achieving a picture-perfect smile. They also play a vital role in maintaining your oral health and overall well-being. If you notice any of the signs mentioned above in yourself or your child, then it might be time to discuss orthodontic treatment with Dr. Wint Tun at Harmony Orthodontics. 

Getting started is simple. Just schedule a braces consultation online here, or give our friendly crew a call at (832) 699-3683 for more information!

young woman smiling in a field wearing a white dress

Orthodontist in Tomball, TX, Answers Your Frequently Asked Questions

Written by Identiwrite on . Posted in Tomball Orthodontist.

Orthodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry that focuses on correcting irregularities in the teeth and jaws, ultimately enhancing your smile and overall oral health. If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, then you probably have some questions. That’s why our orthodontist in Tomball, TX, is here to answer your queries about orthodontia (read more about our Tomball orthodontist here). 

Are you looking for an experienced yet affordable orthodontist in Tomball, TX? Look no further than Dr. Wint Tun at Harmony Orthodontics. With Dr. Tun, you can feel confident that you’ll receive treatments that fit your needs and budget. Give our team a call at (832) 699-3683 to schedule your consultation now!

In today’s blog, our orthodontist in Tomball, TX, answers some of the most frequently asked questions about orthodontia. Stick around to learn more about the process, benefits, and considerations of orthodontic treatment.

1. What is orthodontics?

Orthodontics is a dental specialty that involves diagnosing, preventing, and correcting misaligned teeth and jaws. Through various treatments, orthodontists work to improve both the aesthetics and functionality of your smile.

2. When is the right time for orthodontic treatment?

Children as young as 7 may benefit from early intervention, but most orthodontic treatments are typically done during the teenage years. However, adults can also pursue orthodontic treatment to achieve a healthier and more aligned smile.

3. What are the different types of orthodontic treatments?

There are several types of orthodontic treatments available, including;

  • Traditional braces
  • Clear aligners, such as Invisalign®
  • Lingual braces 
  • Retainers
  • Expanders
  • Space maintainers
  • Headgear

4. How long does orthodontic treatment take?

On average, treatment can last anywhere from one to three years. However, case complexity and patient compliance can affect overall treatment times.

5. Are orthodontic treatments painful?

Some discomfort is normal after adjustments, especially during the initial days of wearing braces or changing aligners. However, the discomfort is usually mild and temporary. 

6. How do I care for my teeth during orthodontic treatment?

Brushing and flossing may require some adjustments, but your orthodontist will provide specific instructions to ensure you keep your teeth and orthodontia clean. Regular dental check-ups are also essential.

7. Are there dietary restrictions with braces or aligners?

It is wise to avoid certain sticky or hard foods with metal braces, like popcorn, hard candy, and chewing gum. With aligners, however, you can remove them while eating, so there are no dietary restrictions.

8. Will I need to wear a retainer after treatment?

Yes, wearing a retainer is crucial after completing orthodontic treatment. Retainers preserve teeth’s new position in the mouth, which prevents them from shifting back over time. 

9. How much does orthodontic treatment cost?

The cost of orthodontic treatment varies based on factors such as:

  • The type of treatment
  • The severity of your case
  • Your geographic location
  • Your insurance coverage

Ask our orthodontist in Tomball, TX, for a breakdown of costs before proceeding with treatment.

10. Can orthodontic treatment improve my oral health?

Absolutely. Straight teeth are easier to clean, which can significantly reduce the risk of cavities, gum disease, and other dental problems.

Contact an Orthodontist in Tomball, TX, Today

Orthodontic treatment offers numerous benefits beyond just aesthetic improvements. Whether you’re considering treatment for yourself or a family member, the first step toward a healthier smile begins at Harmony Orthodontics. If you’re ready to schedule a consultation with our orthodontist in Tomball, TX, then schedule your appointment online or call (832) 699-3683 now!

woman smile with clear or ceramic braces brackets

Inconspicuous Braces for Teens and Adults

Written by Identiwrite on . Posted in Orthodontics.

Many people want a gorgeous smile with straight, white teeth, but wearing metal braces keeps them from pursuing orthodontic treatment. Dr. Wint W. Tun at Harmony Orthodontics understands! She knows the importance of maintaining a professional, mature appearance so she offers alternatives to metal braces for adults and teenagers.

In today’s blog, we’ll review the most popular inconspicuous orthodontic therapies. To learn which is best suited for your case, schedule an appointment for a complimentary orthodontic consultation with Dr. Tun. At your visit, Dr. Tun will conduct a thorough exam, take x-rays, and present you with treatment plan options, so you can make an informed decision about braces.

Clear or Ceramic Braces

Often called clear braces because they blend with the color of tooth enamel, ceramic brackets make orthodontics much less obvious than metal braces. Like metal brackets, ceramic brackets are cemented to the front surface of teeth that need adjustment. A nickel wire threaded through the brackets applies strategic forces to reposition teeth over the course of about two years.

Ceramic braces are just like metal braces, but inconspicuous. Because they aren’t quite as intricate and strong as metal brackets, not all cases qualify for ceramic bracket braces.

Six-week adjustment visits with Dr. Tun and six-month cleanings and checkups with your general dentist are a required part of treatment. You’ll need to brush and floss after meals, as well as morning and evening. An interdental brush can help you effectively clean around brackets. Keeping your braces and teeth clean will ensure good oral health throughout treatment and reduce the potential for stains and damage when we remove the ceramic brackets. 

Invisalign and Invisalign Teen

Unlike braces, Invisalign aligners are completely removable. Shaped like a mouthguard, the clear, acrylic aligners fit over the top and/or bottom arches of teeth. Strategically placed pressure pushes or pulls teeth toward their ideal alignment over the course of six to 18 months. Every two weeks, you’ll discard your current aligner and use the next one in your series.

Wear your Invisalign aligners 22 hours a day, but remove them when eating meals and cleaning your teeth. You may also remove your aligners for short periods if you have a speaking engagement, a photo shoot, or another event where you’ll feel more comfortable without your aligner.

Invisalign Teen is a special version of Invisalign that features two unique benefits. First, since teenagers often misplace or lose their aligners, up to six replacement aligners are included with treatment. Second, Blue Dot technology reveals the level of compliance with wear. A blue dot on the aligner will disappear with use, so parents and Dr. Tun will know if the teen patient is wearing the aligners as instructed.

Since Invisalign is removable, non-compliance with 22 hours of wear a day can result in orthodontic relapse. Teeth may shift when the aligner isn’t worn, interrupting treatment. This can result in needing an adjustment to the treatment plan or an all-new treatment plan.

Lingual Braces

Though we don’t recommend lingual braces, they are an option for patients who do not want to wear braces for esthetic reasons. Lingual braces are placed on the back surface of teeth and are usually applied to bottom teeth. They can be harsh on the soft tissues of the tongue, causing irritation and abrasions. Also, they’re difficult to clean and adjust.

If You Need Braces, Call Dr. Tun Today!

To learn more about braces that won’t mar your image, contact us today for your no-cost, no-obligation orthodontic consultation. At this appointment, in addition to taking x-rays and providing a treatment plan, Dr. Tun will answer all of your questions. Call 832-699-3683 to schedule your appointment.

6 Year Old Girl with Phase 1 Orthodontics Braces

Who Needs Phase 1 Orthodontics?

Written by Identiwrite on . Posted in Orthodontics.

Phase 1 orthodontics is a therapy for children, and it can begin as early as age six. At Harmony Orthodontics in Tomball, TX, Dr. Wint W. Tun offers two primary options for phase 1 treatment: traditional braces or Invisalign First. Both therapies reshape the mouth to make space for 32 adult teeth to properly develop.

In today’s blog, we’ll review:

  • Who needs phase 1 orthodontics
  • What phase 1 accomplishes
  • Treatment options for phase 1

Does your child need phase 1 orthodontics?

According to the AAO, children should have an orthodontic consultation by age seven. At this consult, the orthodontist can determine whether a child needs braces and when the braces should be applied. In many cases, orthodontists advise parents to wait until all or their child’s permanent teeth have developed before undergoing orthodontic treatment. Other times, children as young as age six may benefit from phase 1 orthodontics.

The purpose of phase 1 treatment is to ensure the mouth has sufficient room for 32 adult teeth to come in straight, while also promoting healthy occlusion. The term occlusion refers to the relationship of upper and lower teeth when the mouth is closed.

Children who need phase 1 may have a crossbite, overbite, or underbite. Children who sucked their thumb, bottle-fed, or used a pacifier past age three may have an improperly shaped palate. Those who habitually thrust their tongue against their teeth may experience improper development of the palate.

Commonly, a child’s upper palate is too narrow, which causes the need for extractions when permanent teeth develop. Phase 1 orthodontics makes space, eliminating the need for extractions. Genetics also has much to do with the shape of the jaws. 

How Phase 1 Ortho Helps Kids as They Grow

Since the primary goal of phase one orthodontics is to reshape the palate to accommodate all permanent teeth, treatment usually involves wearing a palatal expander. This device is worn on the upper palate to guide bone growth and widen the palate. (Note that harmful habits like thumbsucking and tongue thrusting stop when a child wears a palatal expander.)

Bone growth occurs in the center of the palate, where the left and right maxillary bones meet.

By altering mouth shape to accommodate 32 adult teeth, phase 1 orthodontics can prevent future orthodontic problems. Ultimately, this eliminates the need for extractions and other procedures later in life. If the child needs to wear braces during the teen years, treatment time may be shorter because of the results of phase 1 therapy.

Treatment Options for Phase 1

At Harmony Orthodontics, Dr. Tun offers two options for phase 1 orthodontic treatment. 

The therapy that provides the most accurate tooth movement and jaw expansion is traditional phase 1. The child wears a palatal expander and may also need spacers, in addition to wearing metal braces. A parent will need to turn a special key on the expander each night, to create appropriate pressure for jaw growth. Typically, traditional phase 1 ortho takes two years and is appropriate for children between ages six and nine. 

Another option for patients with qualifying cases is Invisalign First. Like regular Invisalign, the patient wears a series of clear, removable aligners instead of affixed metal braces. Invisalign First acts as both a palatal expander and braces, expanding the width of the upper palate and repositioning teeth. Not all patients’ cases qualify for Invisalign First. 

No-Cost, No-Obligation Phase 1 Orthodontic Consultation

Call Harmony Orthodontics in Tomball, TX, at 832-699-3683 to schedule your (or your child’s) complimentary orthodontic consultation with Dr. Wint Tun. After x-rays and a thorough oral exam, Dr. Tun will explain her findings and discuss treatment options, if necessary. We offer a few different options for phase 1 orthodontics and Dr. Tun will provide you with all the details during your visit.

braces for kids - twins

What Are the Best Braces for Kids?

Written by Identiwrite on . Posted in Invisalign, Orthodontics, Tomball Orthodontist.

Your children–you adore them and so do we. Board-certified orthodontist Dr. Wint W. Tun and the compassionate, kid-friendly team at Harmony Orthodontics want to invite you and your children to join our family of patients. We always want the best for our young patients, so Dr. Tun offers a variety of braces for kids. To determine which is best for your child, schedule a no-cost, no-obligation orthodontic consultation in our Tomball office with Dr. Tun by calling 832-699-3683.

What happens at an ortho consultation?

Children’s smiles are as diverse as their personalities! All kids should have an ortho consult by age 7, according to the American Association of Orthodontists. Your little one may not need braces, or he might be best served by Invisalign First, and another child in your household may be well suited for traditional braces. This is why Dr. Tun offers a free consultation. 

At your first appointment, we will take x-rays and photos, then Dr. Tun sit down with you (and your child, if he wants) to explain her findings and treatment recommendations. Your input is important during the consultation because you can share valuable insight into the lifestyle factors and habits that will help us choose the best braces for your child.

Now, let’s explore the options. The following braces for kids are available in our Tomball orthodontist office.

Types of Children’s Braces: Ages 6 to 9

The type of braces your child needs will depend upon his specific case and age. Early orthodontics, also called phase one ortho or interceptive braces, creates additional space in the mouth for incoming permanent teeth. This allows your child to avoid future extractions, which are necessary when kids’ mouths are too small for all their permanent teeth. In addition, phase one ortho can set a child up for fewer orthodontic issues in his teens and adult years.

If a child needs phase one, Dr. Tun may suggest Invisalign First or palatal expanders prior to placing traditional braces. Both types of braces for kids have pros and cons.

Traditional Braces for Phase One Orthodontics

The braces we know from our childhood have significantly evolved in the past few decades. Today, traditional braces for kids are smaller, lighter, and less obtrusive than the train tracks you may have worn.

Dr. Tun will recommend traditional braces for kids when simpler options, like Invisalign First, won’t solve the orthodontic issues.

With braces, more precise tooth movement can be achieved. Issues like lifting teeth further out of the jaw or pressing them deeper can only be achieved with traditional braces. Twisted teeth require a straightening strategy that only traditional braces can achieve, as well. Perhaps most important, patients cannot remove traditional braces, so compliance is practically guaranteed. Invisalign First requires that the patient choose to comply every day to be effective.

Also, in phase one ortho, we use a palatal expander to guide bone growth of the upper jaw, creating room for incoming permanent teeth. While Invisalign First also expands the upper palate, it isn’t ideal for extremely narrow mouths. Once the palate is sufficiently expanded with a palatal expander, in some cases the patient can opt for Invisalign instead of traditional braces.

Invisalign First: Removable, Clear Aligners for Kids

In the past, Invisalign was made only for adults, then they created version for teenagers. Today, parents and young children can opt for Invisalign First, an effective phase one orthodontic therapy for children, ages 6 to about 9. The clear aligners are made with the same special software and materials we use for Invisalign for adults and Invisalign Teen. 

Invisalign First can expand the upper palate without the use of a traditional palatal expander with a key. However, children must wear their aligners as instructed, 22 hours per day, to see projected results. Non-compliance or partial-compliance will delay results and could allow relapse, meaning teeth shift back out of alignment when the aligner isn’t worn. Relapse creates the need for a new treatment plan, so wearing the aligners as instructed is imperative for success.

Invisalign First is wonderful for oral home care! The removable aligners can be brushed and rinsed clean, and teeth are free of any obstruction. The patient should floss and brush normally, but parents, please make sure your child does a thorough job morning and evening.

Learn More About Braces for Kids

If you want to talk with board-certified orthodontist Dr. Wint W. Tun about the best braces for your kids, give us a ring at 832-699-3683. Schedule a no-cost, no-obligation orthodontist consultation today!

child wearing braces

“How can I tell if my child needs braces?”

Written by Identiwrite on . Posted in Orthodontics.

This is a great question that all parents of young children should have answered. Board-certified orthodontist Dr. Wint W. Tun at Harmony Orthodontics in Tomball, TX, will provide you with a lengthy but thorough answer in today’s blog, so read on. If you have additional questions or want to schedule a no-cost, no-obligation braces consultation with Dr. Tun after reading this blog, give us a call at 832-699-3683.

When to See the Orthodontist for a Braces Consultation

All children should have an ortho consult by the age of seven, according to the American Orthodontists Association (AAO). However, if your kiddo is over 7, bring him in any way! It’s never too late to improve dental alignment for more comfortable oral function and to create ample space for teeth to develop.

On the flip side, if your little one seems to have an orthodontic problem before age 7, Dr. Tun will be happy to evaluate his dentition. A consultation will provide you with all the info you need to make wise choices about your child’s orthodontic care.

The AAO also provides parents with excellent tips on determining whether a child needs braces. Dr. Tun will share those tips here, along with additional explanations to help you understand the symptoms of needing braces.

Losing Baby Teeth Early or Late

A child’s bottom and top center teeth, called incisors, usually fall out naturally between the ages of six and eight. On either side of these four incisors are the canines, or cuspids. The canines and first molars usually fall out between ages nine and 12. Around age 10 to 12, the last teeth left, the second molars, fall out. If your child’s teeth fall out more than a year before or after these age ranges, he might need braces.

Trouble Biting and/or Chewing Foods

At any age, if a child’s teeth hurt when he bites and chews, he may need braces. The pain referenced here is not “teething” – the expected discomfort that occurs when primary and permanent teeth erupt from the gums. Instead, this pain only happens while the child eats and may be felt in one or more existing teeth.

Breathing Through the Mouth: Mouth Breathing

Mouth breathing is the term we give to the condition that causes a person the inability breathe normally through the nose. These people breathe only through the mouth. This is different from when a child has a stuffy nose associated with a cold, flu, allergies, or sinus irritation. Mouth breathing is constant. In addition to causing sleep disorders, mouth breathing can alter the proper development of the face and jaws. Braces can help reshape the face and prevent mouth breathing.

Sounds from the Jaw

If your child’s jaw joint(s) pops, clicks, or cracks when he chews, talks, or yawns, he may need braces. When one or both jaw joints aren’t properly aligned, a person can develop TMJ disorder, which causes many issues, including pain ranging from mild to severe. 

Constantly Biting His Cheeks

Some people chew on the inside of their cheeks due to stress or anxiety, which is not indicative of needing orthodontics. Others accidentally bite their cheeks repeatedly when eating and speaking. This symptom can indicate a crossbite or other orthodontic condition that requires treatment with braces. 

Facial Unsymmetry or Imbalance

The appearance of our cheeks, lips, and chin has much to do with the underlying structure provided by jaws and teeth. If your child’s face seems imbalanced, his occlusion may need correction. We call this condition malocclusion, and braces can treat it. Occlusion is defined as the relationship between the upper and lower teeth when the mouth is closed. Malocclusion can cause many issues, ranging from tooth wear and breakage to TMJ disorder.

An Image Says It All

This PDF, provided by the AAO, shows parents what different types of orthodontic issues look like. Compare your child’s mouth to these images, and if you notice similarities, give us a call. Your child may need braces as early as age six or seven. At this age, we use early orthodontics to direct proper development of the jaws and teeth, to reduce the potential for more complex issues later in life.

No-Cost, No-Obligation Braces Consultation

If you notice any of the symptoms described above or your child’s smile appears to have similarities to the images in the AAO’s pdf file, call Harmony Orthodontics today to schedule a visit. Dr. Tun’s no-cost, no-obligation consultation includes X-rays and a sit-down meeting so that she can show you her findings and explain whether your child needs braces. Give us a ring at 832-699-3683.