Grant Bowbeer DDS MS

Whenever teeth look "crowded", there is a reason for it. Sometimes it is due to "oversized" teeth. However, most of the time it is due to narrow dental arches, an overclosed vertical (deep overbite), or incorrect jaw position (Class I, II, III).

The biggest clue that there is a problem is the upper and/or lower incisors look crowded when they erupt , and/or a smile that looks narrow.

Major improvement can be achieved by starting treatment as young as 6 or 7 years of age. Early diagnosis helps make the treatment more successful. The improvement in dental and facial esthetics has been very satisfying, and both patients and parents love the result. We have had several patients who were awarded the best smile in their class, band, or track team, etc.

A GOOD OCCLUSION

Teeth in a person's upper and lower jaws are designed to fit together in chewing, much like gears mesh in a machine. Good meshing of the teeth helps you to chew food properly and allows the chewing forces to be evenly distributed throughout all the teeth.

Problems occur when the jaws and teeth do not meet right. This is called a malocclusion. A skeletal malocclusion occurs when one jaw doesn't line up with the other, or when the teeth are too large for the jaws. A dental malocclusion occurs when the teeth are out of line, crowded, turned, or spread out. This can happen with or without a TMJ dysfunction problem.  

ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT:

Orthodontic treatment varies for each individual. An examination is performed which allows the orthodontist to examine your jaws and teeth to determine if treatment is necessary. At that time a brief treatment outline can be presented. Should you decide to go ahead with treatment, a series of appointments will take place including taking records ( photos, diagnostic models & diagnostic xrays); a consultation explaining the individual treatment plan and financial information; insertion of spacers/separators to allow room for bands on the back teeth;  fitting of a fixed and/or removable appliance to allow for expansion if necessary; braces, wire, elastics; then finally retainers to hold the position of your teeth.  Headgear may need to be worn as well. We also offer invisalign for adult and teens.

All of these put pressure on your jaws and teeth to guide them into the right place. Average treatment time can vary between 18 to 30 months depending on the severity of the malocclusion.

How to contact us.