Two-Phase Treatment
Two-phase orthodontic treatment is a specialized process that combines tooth straightening and physical, facial changes. The purpose of two-phase treatment is to maximize the opportunity to accomplish the ideal healthy, functional, and aesthetic result that will remain stable throughout your child’s life.
While starting orthodontic treatment early is not always the best course for children, putting off necessary treatment can result in a need for more extensive treatment later in life that may not completely fix your child’s smile. In most cases, early treatment is most effective for achieving lasting results.
Phase One
The goal of Phase One treatment is to help the jaw develop in a way that will accommodate all of the permanent teeth and improve the way the upper and lower jaws fit together. Children often exhibit early signs of jaw problems as they grow and develop. An upper jaw that is growing too much or is too narrow can be recognized at an early age. If children over the age of six are found to have this jaw discrepancy, they are candidates for early orthodontic treatment. Also, if children around the age of eight have crowded front teeth, early treatment can prevent the need to extract permanent teeth later.
Children benefit tremendously from early-phase treatment. Receiving early treatment may prevent the removal of permanent teeth later in life, or the need for surgical procedures to realign the jaws.
Orthodontic records will be necessary to determine the type of appliances to be used, the duration of treatment time, and the frequency of visits. Records consist of models of the teeth, X-rays, and photographs. During your child’s initial consultation, the doctor will take records to determine if early treatment is necessary.
Resting Period
In this phase, the remaining permanent teeth are left alone as they erupt. Retaining devices may not be recommended if they would interfere with eruption. It is best to allow the existing permanent teeth some freedom of movement. A successful first phase will have created room for permanent teeth to find an eruption path. Otherwise, they may become impacted or severely displaced.
At the end of the first phase of treatment, teeth are not in their final positions. This will be determined and accomplished in the second phase of treatment. Selective removal of certain primary (baby) teeth may be in the best interest of enhancing eruption during this resting phase. Therefore, periodic recall appointments for observation are necessary, usually on a six-month basis.
Phase Two
The goal of the second phase is to make sure each tooth has an exact location in the mouth where it is in harmony with the lips, cheeks, tongue, and other teeth. When this equilibrium is established, the teeth will function together properly. Phase Two usually involves full upper and lower braces.
At the beginning of the first phase, orthodontic records were made and a diagnosis and treatment plan was established. Certain types of appliances were used in the first phase to correct and realign the teeth and jaw. The second phase begins when all permanent teeth have erupted, and usually requires braces on all the teeth for an average of 24 months. Retainers are worn after this phase to ensure your child retains his or her beautiful smile.
Palatal Expander
The palatal expander “expands” (or widens) your upper jaw by putting gentle pressure on your upper molars each time an adjustment is made. Custom-fitted to the individual patient, the palatal expander is gently adjusted over time to gradually expand the palate. This expansion helps to create the necessary space for permanent teeth to emerge correctly, potentially reducing the need for extractions and promoting a healthier dental arch. The device is most effective in children and adolescents, taking advantage of the natural growth processes during these developmental stages for optimal results.
We understand that the idea of using a palatal expander can seem daunting to both parents and patients alike. That’s why our team at Castro Valley Orthodontics prioritizes education and support throughout the treatment process. We ensure that you are fully informed on how to adjust the expander and what to expect during treatment, making the experience as comfortable and anxiety-free as possible. Our goal is to provide not just technical expertise, but also the compassionate care needed to guide our patients smoothly through their orthodontic journeys.
Dentofacial Orthopedics
At Castro Valley Orthodontics, we specialize in a holistic approach to orthodontic care, which includes the practice of dentofacial orthopedics. This specialized field goes beyond the alignment of teeth, focusing on the harmonious development and correction of facial bone structures. Dentofacial orthopedics is particularly crucial during a child’s growth stages, as it enables us to influence the jaw’s growth pattern, ensuring a balanced, functional, and aesthetically pleasing facial structure.
Our treatments may involve the use of custom-designed appliances that guide the growth of the facial and jaw bones, effectively addressing issues such as underbites, overbites, and jaw discrepancies. These treatments are not solely for cosmetic purposes; they also aim to improve overall oral health and functionality, including enhancing breathing, chewing, and speaking abilities.
The process begins with a comprehensive evaluation of the patient’s facial structure, dental health, and growth patterns. Utilizing advanced imaging technology, our skilled orthodontists at Castro Valley Orthodontics craft a personalized treatment plan tailored to meet each patient’s unique needs. Our goal is to ensure that children and adolescents receive the proactive care necessary for developing optimal dental and facial aesthetics.
It’s important to note that while dentofacial orthopedics often involves treatment during childhood, adults can also benefit from these corrective measures. Although adult treatment may take longer and sometimes require surgical assistance due to the cessation of growth, significant improvements in facial symmetry and function are achievable.
At Castro Valley Orthodontics, we’re committed to providing our patients with the full spectrum of orthodontic care. By integrating dentofacial orthopedics into our practice, we offer a comprehensive approach that addresses not just the teeth, but the entire facial profile, ensuring outcomes that are both beautiful and functional.
Pre-Surgical Orthodontics
At Castro Valley Orthodontics, we understand that orthodontic care sometimes extends beyond braces and aligners, especially in cases requiring surgical intervention for optimal outcomes. Pre-surgical orthodontics is a critical phase of treatment designed to prepare the teeth and jaw for orthognathic surgery, ensuring the best possible results. This preparatory phase is essential for patients whose jaw misalignment is too severe to be corrected with orthodontics alone and requires a combination of surgical and non-surgical approaches to achieve a functional bite and aesthetic alignment.
The primary goal of pre-surgical orthodontics is to align the teeth in each jaw independently, so they will fit together properly after the surgical adjustment of the jaw positions. This involves using traditional braces or aligners to move the teeth into the ideal position. The duration of this phase can vary, typically lasting 6 to 18 months, depending on the complexity of the case and the specific adjustments needed to prepare for surgery.
Our team at Castro Valley Orthodontics closely collaborates with oral and maxillofacial surgeons to develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to each patient’s unique needs. By integrating advanced imaging technologies and precision planning, we carefully coordinate the orthodontic and surgical phases to enhance the functional and aesthetic outcomes.
Undergoing pre-surgical orthodontics can profoundly impact not only the appearance but also the overall quality of life, improving chewing functionality, speech, and long-term oral health. We are committed to guiding our patients through every step of this intricate process, providing support, education, and compassionate care to ensure a smooth and successful treatment experience.
TMJ/TMD Treatment
Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMD) are complex conditions that can cause pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and the muscles that control jaw movement, known as the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ). Understanding the impact that TMD can have on a patient’s health and quality of life, Castro Valley Orthodontics is committed to offering effective treatments for those suffering from this condition. Our approach to TMD treatment focuses on relieving discomfort, improving function, and preventing further joint damage.
Our specialized TMD treatment plans begin with a thorough evaluation of your symptoms, medical history, and a detailed examination of your jaw and bite. Utilizing advanced diagnostic techniques, we aim to identify the root cause of your TMD to create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Treatment options at Castro Valley Orthodontics may include:
- Orthodontic Appliances — Custom-designed splints or orthotic devices can be worn to gently realign the jaw, relieve pressure on the joint, and reduce symptoms such as pain and discomfort.
- Orthodontic Correction — In some cases, misaligned teeth or an improper bite can contribute to TMD symptoms. Orthodontic treatment, including braces or aligners, may be recommended to correct these issues, thereby alleviating the strain on the jaw joints.
- Therapeutic Exercises — Specific exercises designed to strengthen and relax the jaw muscles can help to improve jaw function and reduce TMD symptoms. Our team provides guidance and support in incorporating these exercises into your treatment plan.
- Patient Education — Understanding how certain behaviors, such as teeth grinding or clenching, can exacerbate TMD symptoms is crucial. We offer advice on lifestyle adjustments and techniques to manage these habits effectively.
At Castro Valley Orthodontics, we believe in a conservative, non-invasive approach to TMD treatment, prioritizing therapies that offer relief without the need for surgical intervention. Our dedicated team works closely with each patient, ensuring that they receive compassionate care and support throughout the treatment process.
Sleep Apnea Treatment
Sleep apnea is a serious condition characterized by pauses in breathing or shallow breaths during sleep, significantly impacting one’s quality of sleep and overall health. At Castro Valley Orthodontics, we are dedicated to helping our patients achieve not only a beautiful smile but also a healthier lifestyle. Recognizing the connection between orthodontic health and sleep apnea, we offer specialized treatment options aimed at addressing the root causes of sleep apnea, particularly those related to oral and dental structures.
Our approach to treating sleep apnea involves a comprehensive evaluation to determine how your oral anatomy, such as the position of your jaw and tongue, might be contributing to airway obstruction during sleep. Based on this assessment, we design a personalized treatment plan that may include:
- Oral Appliance Therapy — Similar to a mouthguard worn in sports, an oral appliance designed for sleep apnea treatment can help keep the airway open during sleep. These custom-fitted devices adjust the position of the lower jaw and tongue, reducing airway obstruction and improving airflow.
- Orthodontic Treatment — In cases where misaligned teeth or jaw structure contribute to sleep apnea, orthodontic treatments such as braces or aligners can be effective in repositioning the jaw and improving the openness of the airway during sleep.
- Collaborative Care — For more complex cases of sleep apnea, we work closely with sleep specialists and other medical professionals to ensure a multidisciplinary approach to treatment. This collaboration may include CPAP therapy or surgical options, depending on the severity of the condition and the patient’s specific needs.
At Castro Valley Orthodontics, we understand the profound impact that sleep apnea can have on your health, well-being, and daily life. Our goal is to provide effective, non-invasive treatment options that not only alleviate the symptoms of sleep apnea but also address its underlying causes related to dental and orthodontic health.
Our commitment to comprehensive care means we are here to support you through every step of your treatment, from initial diagnosis to the successful management of sleep apnea. By focusing on individualized care and leveraging our expertise in orthodontics, we strive to help our patients enjoy a restful night’s sleep and a healthier future.
Cleft Lip & Palate Cases
At Castro Valley Orthodontics, we recognize the unique challenges and concerns that accompany cleft lip and palate cases. These conditions, which affect the upper lip and roof of the mouth, require a specialized and compassionate approach to orthodontic care. Our dedicated team is committed to providing comprehensive treatment plans designed to address both the aesthetic and functional needs of individuals born with cleft lip and palate.
Cleft lip and palate represent some of the most common birth anomalies affecting the craniofacial region. They occur when there is an incomplete fusion of facial structures during fetal development, leading to a split or gap in the lip and/or the palate. The severity of these conditions can vary greatly from a small notch in the lip to a large opening in the roof of the mouth.
At Castro Valley Orthodontics, our treatment philosophy for cleft lip and palate cases is rooted in a multidisciplinary approach. We collaborate closely with a team of specialists, including surgeons, pediatric dentists, speech therapists, and audiologists, to ensure comprehensive care tailored to each patient’s unique needs.
Orthodontic treatment for cleft lip and palate cases can involve a few stages:
- Pre-Surgical Orthopedics — For young patients, we might use specialized appliances to help align the jaw and lip segments, preparing them for surgical repair.
Surgical Intervention — While we do not perform surgeries, our role involves pre-surgical planning and coordination with surgical teams to ensure optimal outcomes for lip and palate repair. - Orthodontic Alignment — Following surgery, orthodontic treatment typically begins with braces to align the teeth and correct the bite. This phase is crucial for enhancing both function and appearance.
- Final Corrections and Retention — After the teeth are properly aligned, we may recommend additional treatments, such as dental implants for missing teeth or jaw surgery for severe bite discrepancies. Once the desired outcome is achieved, retention devices are used to maintain the results.
We understand that navigating through the stages of cleft lip and palate treatment can be challenging for patients and their families. Castro Valley Orthodontics is committed to providing not just exceptional orthodontic care, but also emotional support and guidance every step of the way. Our goal is to achieve functional, healthy smiles and to boost the confidence and quality of life of those we treat.
Retainers
Finally, your braces have been removed and your smile is beautiful, straight, and best of all, appliance-free! However, your orthodontic journey isn’t quite completed. To keep your smile looking its best, you’ll have to wear a retainer to preserve and stabilize your results. Retainers are needed to control or limit potential changes in tooth position. They are used after treatment to hold teeth in their correct alignment while the surrounding gums, bone, and muscle adjust to the new positioning of your teeth.
Retainers are custom-made and can be removable or fixed.
- Traditional removable retainers typically include a metal wire that surrounds the front teeth and is attached to an acrylic arch that sits in the roof of the mouth. The metal wires can be adjusted to finish treatment and continue minor movement of the front teeth as needed.
- Aligner-style retainers, or Essix retainers, look similar to clear aligners and offer a more aesthetic alternative to wire retainers. This clear retainer may fit over the entire arch of your teeth, or only from canine to canine (clip-on retainer). It is produced from a mold of your newly aligned teeth.
- Fixed retainers consist of wires bonded behind the bottom and/or top teeth. While the device is usually required no more than a year after wisdom teeth have been extracted, it is often kept in place for life.
Retainers are available for current or new patients:
- Patients must have a scan from the last 6 months on file or get a new scan
- Payment is due before scan or before we send out the scan on file.
Pricing for retainers is as follows: (Click to enlarge)
Ready to order? Complete the form below to get in touch with one of our team members on ordering or being a part of our Retainer Program:
Retainer Program Inquiry
