Causes of Misaligned Teeth

causes of misaligned teeth - Lyons Orthodontics

causes of misaligned teethWhat Causes Misaligned Teeth?

Do you or a member of your family have misaligned teeth? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. It’s estimated that millions of people across the world have crooked teeth. Men and women of all ages have perfectly imperfect smiles. Some severe enough to require surgical intervention. You’re probably wondering what causes misaligned teeth? In this article, we explore some of the causes of misaligned teeth. If you or a loved one isn’t in love with their smile, contact Lyons Orthodontics. Crooked teeth can easily be fixed with orthodontic solutions like braces and Invisalign. 

Genetics Can Cause Misaligned Teeth

There are several factors that can impact the alignment of your teeth, and they can change throughout your life. Genetics can play a strong role in the teeth that you have. This includes whether or not they are straight when they start to erupt. If someone else in your family has misaligned teeth, it is very likely that you will develop a similar smile. A jaw that is on the smaller side can increase your risk for crowded teeth. Patients with a crowded smile may need to have a tooth extracted to make room for the rest of their teeth. Overcrowding is very common nowadays.

Thumb Sucking Can Cause Misaligned teeth

Thumb sucking as a toddler and older child can put a fair amount of pressure on your teeth, which can ultimately lead to them moving out of alignment. Most often, thumb sucking will lead to issues with an open bite that needs to be corrected with an orthodontic solution. Invisalign Fair Oaks parents will appreciate can often prove to be a good solution for older teens who have very mild issues with their bite.

Do You Have Any Missing Teeth?

Missing teeth can be responsible for your other healthy teeth shifting around in your mouth. The early loss of your baby teeth and your adult teeth alike can have an impact on the position of your other healthy teeth. The very same movability that makes braces for teens and adults possible can lead to misalignment issues in the first place. Teeth are easily moveable within the mouth and are prone to moving into any available gaps near them.

Dr. Brian Leeson, a dentist in St. Pete Fl, says that the early loss of both adult and baby teeth can affect the position of your remaining teeth, causing them to drift into available gaps. Sometimes baby teeth can be replaced by larger adult teeth that overlap and crowd together due to limited space.

Gum Disease Can Cause Misaligned Teeth

Gum disease can also be responsible for alignment issues with your teeth. As the gums become more inflamed and infected, teeth can loosen in the socket, and their alignment can become gradually altered.

If you are looking for solutions for your misaligned teeth, be sure to call one of our Lyon’s Orthodontics offices in El Dorado Hills or Fair Oaks. We offer a range of orthodontic solutions that will improve your smile! We offer traditional braces, lingual braces, retainers, Invisalign, and more! Our Lyons Orthodontics team wants to help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted! Visit Dr. Tim Lyons for a free no-obligation consultation!

Getting Braces as an Adult

Getting braces as an adult - Lyons Orthodontics

Getting braces as an adultBraces used to be considered a common practice for kids, but more and more adults are starting orthodontic treatment. Thanks to the advancements in orthodontics, more and more adults are starting their orthodontic treatment with Lyons Orthodontics. This article discusses some of the orthodontic treatment options available to adults. 

Getting Braces as an Adult

1. Metal Braces

Dr. Tim Lyons, an orthodontist in El Dorado Hills, explains that metal braces have been and continue to be around and for a very good reason. Traditional braces are one of the best solutions for complex orthodontic problems, such as severely misaligned teeth. These braces are made from stainless steel and are so small that it is possible to fit them into the tiniest spaces in case of severely crooked teeth.

2. Tooth-Colored or Clear Braces

Getting braces as an adult doesn’t have to be the end of the world! We totally understand why you could feel self-conscious during your Just Smile Journey. That’s why we offer so many orthodontic treatment options. Another common option at our orthodontic office in El Dorado Hills is tooth-colored or clear braces. These types of braces are made from ceramic.

Ceramic braces are visible, but they aren’t as attention-grabbing as the metal braces are. This is largely the reason why people who would like to keep their orthodontic treatment as discreet as possible may choose clear braces. However, Dr. Tim Lyons cautions patients who opt for this type of braces to be careful when consuming pigmented foods and drinks because the ceramic braces easily become stained by these substances.

3. Clear Aligners or Invisalign Aligners

One of our most popular orthodontic treatment options for adults is Invisalign Clear Aligners! Many of our patients at Lyons Orthodontics absolutely love Invisalign because they’re removable. So, you can take them out when you brush and floss your teeth, and even when you eat. Did we mention that Invisalign doesn’t have any wires or brackets on your teeth? Most people won’t realize you have clear aligners because each aligner is custom fit to your smile! Patients who decide that Invisalign is for them will have to wear the aligners for about 20 and 22 hours each day in order to achieve their ideal smile. 

4. Lingual Braces

As their name suggests, lingual braces are placed on the inner surface of your teeth (the side closest to your tongue). Folsom’s orthodontist, Dr. Tim Lyons, says this type of braces is attractive to patients because the braces aren’t visible in the same way that traditional braces are. Lingual braces are the option of choice for patients who prefer a discreet way to treat their orthodontic condition, which is more severe than what can be treated using Invisalign clear aligners. 

Your Just Smile Journey with Lyons Orthodontics

If you wore braces as a kid, remember that dental technology has changed immensely. Orthodontics has taken major strides over the decade. Our Lyons Orthodontic team will take a digital impression of your teeth, and the treatment time has also reduced considerably. If you’re interested in getting braces as an adult, Lyons Orthodontics team can help you achieve your dream smile

After We Remove Your Braces 

Once your treatment is completed and our orthodontists remove your braces, you will likely need to wear a retainer. There’s still a chance that your teeth move out of their new positions. 

The amount of time that you wear the retainer will vary. For example, the orthodontic expert at Lyons Orthodontics may tell you to wear it each night for the first year or two post braces. This is intended to give the bone and gum an opportunity to become firm around your newly repositioned teeth.

After that first year or two, you could reduce the frequency of wearing the retainer at night to once or twice each week. Your El Dorado Hills orthodontist will let you know how long you’ll need to wear your retainer.

Still Have Questions?

At Lyons Orthodontics, creating perfect smiles is our specialty. Everyone deserves to feel confident and beautiful in their smile, which is why we offer a FREE no-obligation free consultation. If you’re interested in starting your orthodontic treatment, contact us at our Lyons Orthodontics offices in Eldorado Hills or Fair Oaks. Who said it wasn’t possible for your smile to become better as you age? Come and let us make it happen for you!

Everything About Mouthguards

Everything about mouthguards - Lyons Orthodontics

Everything about moutguards - Lyons OrthodonticsClose your eyes for a moment and picture how your life would be if you lost your front teeth. Suddenly, it would become difficult for you to eat, talk, or even smile. If you’re playing contact sports without a mouthguard, this could happen to you! We know how important your smile means to you, which is why we offer free custom-made mouthguards to local athletes! 

Mouthguards are a standard safety precaution that will protect any blow to the face. This protection minimizes the injuries that you would have suffered to your lips, face, tongue, or jaw.

Usually, the upper teeth are exposed to most of the trauma, which is why mouthguards are made to cover the upper teeth. 

We’ll make you a custom fit mouthguard right away!

When Should I Wear a Mouthguard?

Your comfort and safety is our number one priority, in and outside our dental offices. Sports and recreational activities can be all fun and games until someone gets hurt! It’s always best to be more safe than sorry. If your child is an athlete, make sure they use a mouthguard during their sports or recreational activities. If you don’t have one, stop by our dental office in El Dorado Hills or Fair Oaks

Kids aren’t the only ones who should be wearing a mouthguard. Anyone who engages in contact sports or any other vigorous recreational activity is at risk of facial and mouth injuries, and that is why our offer of free custom-fit mouthguards extends to every local athlete.

Gymnasts, skaters, and people in other non-contact sports also face a risk of trauma to the face and mouth. So, stop by our dental office today!

Types of Mouthguards

There are many types of mouthguards out there! Here are the different options:

Custom-made Mouthguards

These are specially made for YOU! At Lyons Orthodontics, we know how important it is to protect your smile. We make sure your custom mouthguards Fit your unique smile. To make sure your custom mouthguard is custom, we’ll need to take dental impressions of your teeth. Once that’s done, you’ll be on your way with your mouthguard! Due to the high-quality materials used to make these mouthguards, they tend to be the most expensive option. Don’t forget, local athletes, get FREE custom mouthguards at our El Dorado Hills and Fair Oaks offices.

Boil and Bite Mouthguards.

The next best option if you are unable to get custom-fit mouthguards at your dentist is the boil-and-bite mouthguard. This type of mouthguard is available at your local drugstores and sports goods shops. When you buy this mouthguard, you will need to boil it in water and then put the softened mouthguard in your mouth so that it can adapt to the unique shape of your oral structures. Boil-and-bite mouthguards come with manufacturer’s instructions, so follow those instructions to get the best possible protection from these devices.

Stock Mouthguards

This type of mouthguard is inexpensive, and it comes ready to use. You just put the mouth guard over your teeth and hope that it fits and does its work. However, orthodontists in El Dorado Hills, CA, explain that stock mouthguards come with a number of shortcomings. They usually provide the least amount of protection to your teeth since the mouthguard doesn’t fit well. Stock mouthguards can also make it hard for you to talk or breathe because they tend to be bulky.

Mouthguards and Braces

You’ve got to protect your smile, especially if you wear braces! Why are mouthguards important for people with braces? The mouthguard acts as a barrier between the brackets, wires, and mouth. In this way, injuries to the cheeks and gums can be avoided.

As already mentioned, mouthguards usually protect the upper teeth, but people with braces or fixed dental bridges on the lower teeth also need this protection. Contact Lyons Orthodontics at the El Dorado Hills or Fair Oaks office so that we can make for you a custom-fit mouthguard for the upper and lower teeth!

Taking Care of Your Mouthguard

Our courteous staff and orthodontists at Lyons Orthodontics are always available to check your mouthguard and let you know if it is due for replacement. However, if you notice that your mouthguard has any sign of wear, no longer fits or is otherwise damaged, have it replaced immediately because it will no longer be giving you the protection that you need.

Orthodontists in El Dorado Hills, CA, also say that kids and teens are still in the growing phase, so it is necessary to change the mouthguards more frequently to accommodate the changes in your smile.

Keep the following care tips in mind if you use a mouthguard:

  • Rinse and brush the mouthguard. Rinse your mouthguard in clean water and then put some toothpaste on a toothbrush and brush the mouthguard thoroughly. This should be done before and after the mouthguard has been used.
  • Have the mouthguard evaluated by your El Dorado Hills dentist during your dental checkup and professional teeth cleaning. 
  • Get a sturdy container where you can keep or transport your mouthguard. 
  • Refrain from leaving your mouthguard in hot water or under direct sunlight since your mouthguard could become distorted and will no longer fit.
  • Keep your mouthguard out of reach in case your pets think it’s a chew toy.
  • Check your mouthguard for damage and fit. Change it if it fails this inspection.

Still have questions about mouthguards? Give us a call or visit us at Lyons Orthodontics in Fair Oaks and El Dorado Hills, CA. Our experienced professionals will respond to all your queries and make you a custom-fit mouthguard if you are a local athlete.

A Parent’s Guide to Invisalign for Kids

guide to Invisalign for kids - lyons orthodontics

guide to Invisalign for kids - lyons orthodonticsIf you are a parent who is considering Invisalign as a way to straighten your child’s teeth, then keep reading to find all the answers to your questions! 

How Soon Can Invisalign Be Started for Kids?

In the past, kids needed to lose all their baby teeth before they could start any orthodontic treatment. While that traditional way of straightening teeth is still available, advances in dental technology have made it possible for Lyons Orthodontics to treat kids at a younger age!

Dr. Tim Lyons explains that the new way to treat kids involves using Invisalign aligners which are specifically designed to address the needs of kids. The primary objective of these devices is to enlarge the arch of kids’ mouths. This means that an orthodontist in El Dorado Hills can start treating your child as young as seven years old.

Will the Child’s Snack and Meal Options Have to Change?

The experts at Lyons Orthodontics are very much aware of the difficulty of providing braces-friendly snacks and meals to children with braces.

However, you do not need to worry about providing different snacks for your child using Invisalign aligners! Your child can still eat everything that they used to eat because the Invisalign aligners can be removed at mealtimes and then put back after the meal.

Will I Have to Buy Special Dental Care Products?

When you get your child started on Invisalign Teen, they will continue to brush and floss as they did before the orthodontic treatment. Therefore, once your child leaves Lyons Orthodontics with a set of aligners, you will not have to buy anything else to maintain the child’s dental hygiene! 

The Invisalign kit has everything you will need for your child’s treatment because the orthodontic devices are designed to be complete systems, unlike the traditional metal braces that require you to buy an angled toothbrush and special flossing thread.

How Does the Cost of Invisalign Compare With the Cost of Metal Braces?

When Invisalign was first brought to the market, the device was more costly compared to traditional metal braces. However, as dental technology has advanced, the cost of these clear aligners have reduced. 

Additionally, our Fair Oaks orthodontist accepts all major dental care PPOs! Many of these cover a portion of the Invisalign cost. You can also talk to Dr. Tim Lyons about available payment plans if you are partially insured or not insured at all.

How Can My Kid Maintain the Aligners?

We asked our friend, Dr. Christopher Green, a dentist in Parker, Colorado, about maintaining Invisalign aligners. Dr. Green recommends that you teach your child how to brush and rinse the aligners in lukewarm water each day in order to keep them clean. He says it is also helpful to ask the child to refrain from chewing gum with the aligners on because this could damage them. Remember to ask your dentist about a case for the aligners. This will provide a safe container for the aligners, and your child will be less likely to misplace or lose them.

What Can Be Done If My Child Lost Their Aligner Set?

If your child were to lose his or her Invisalign aligner set, contact Lyons Orthodontics immediately. The orthodontist will assess your child and either issue a replacement set of aligners, or even switch to the next set if your child was close to the date when the switch was due to be made.

For the best treatment outcomes, Dr. Tim Lyons advises that your child keep the Invisalign aligners on for at least 20 hours each day. You can even monitor how well your child is adhering to this requirement by checking the blue indicators on the aligners. These fade as they react with saliva, so a set of aligners which is worn for fewer hours will not exhibit a significant change in the color on the indicator. Visit Dr. Tim Lyons, a Folsom orthodontist, for more information about how Invisalign Teen can be useful for your child!

Kids’ Dental Retainers

Kids dental retainers - Lyons Orthodontics

Kids dental retainers - Lyons OrthodonticsWhen your El Dorado Hils or Fair Oaks orthodontist removes your child’s braces, the orthodontist will give your child a retainer! This retainer will be worn for a certain period of time so that the teeth don’t return to the original positions before the orthodontic treatment.

Types of Retainers

Our orthodontists may recommend one of the two types of retainers. These two types are:

Removable retainers. These are retainers that your child can take in and out from time to time for a variety of reasons. For example, your child may remove the retainer before they eat. Removable retainers are usually flexible and made from plastic or other similar materials. The experts at Lyons Orthodontics will set a customized routine that your child will follow when wearing these removable aligners. For example, Dr. Tim Lyons may recommend that your child wears the retainer for at least 20 hours each day for the first three months after the braces are removed. From there, the child should wear the retainer only at night for another six or so months. These instructions will depend on the needs of the child and the status of their teeth.

Fixed retainers. As the name suggests, a fixed retainer can only be removed at the end of the set period after being fitted in your child’s mouth. These retainers are made from thin stainless steel wires, which Dr. Tim Lyons binds to the back of your child’s teeth. 

How Do Retainers Work?

When braces are removed after treating your child, there is a risk that the teeth will “relapse” and return to their original positions. However, the retainer prevents this by holding the teeth in place until the jaw bone grows around the teeth holding them firmly in place.

For some kids, a retainer may be provided even if they did not previously have braces. This happens if a dentist finds that one or a few teeth are out of position or they have another minor defect. If the situation doesn’t call for braces or other more serious orthodontic treatment, then a retainer can be recommended to address the dental problem.

Retainers could also be helpful if your kid suffers from TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorder, has a tongue thrust, or suffers from bruxism.

Getting Your Child Fitted for a Retainer

When you take your child to Lyons Orthodontics to be fitted for a retainer, our team will use a material called alginate to get a dental impression of your child’s mouth. This material is thick and chewy, and your child will be asked to pick their favorite flavor so that the impression-taking process is as pleasant as possible! Then, the mold then goes to the lab where the custom retainer will be made. The plastic segment of the retainer can even be customizable! For example, your child could choose an image of their favorite cartoon character to print on the retainer.

After about a week, Dr. Tim Lyons will fit the retainer to your child’s teeth. It may take a few days for your child to adjust to talking with the retainer in the mouth, but with a little practice, everything will return to normal. The Folsom orthodontist suggests that you encourage your child to read out loud for a few minutes every day to get used to speaking with the retainer in place.

How to Take Care of a Retainer

Your child will use their retainer in his or her mouth each day for months or even years to come. This means that the retainer will be exposed to oral bacteria, food particles, and plaque. Therefore, it is important that your child cleans the retainer every day. Talk to an orthodontist in Fair Oaks for advice on how to clean the retainer that your child has been given. 

Another important aspect of caring for a retainer is to prevent it from drying out. This is especially important for removable retainers since they can spend a while out of the mouth. Dr. Fadi Farhart in Sterling Heights, MI, recommends that your child makes it a habit to place the retainer in its container with plain water, which will keep the material pliable.

In addition, avoid putting the retainer in hot water or any other hot fluid since the material could warp or get damaged. When the retainer loses its shape, it will be less capable of keeping your child’s teeth straight. So what would be the point? In the same vein, don’t place the retainer on a heat source, such as the radiator in your room.

While some parents may not immediately see the value of a retainer case, it is a very important way of taking care of the retainer. The retainer case provides a safe place where the retainer can be kept temporarily when it is out of the mouth. This way, the retainer will be less likely to be lost or misplaced. 

If you still have questions, contact Lyons Orthodontics at info@lyonsorthodontics.com. All your questions will be answered, and your child’s orthodontic needs will be met by our team of dedicated professionals! After all, life is better with the beautiful smile of your kids to grace it!

 

How Soon Can My Child Start Wearing Braces

How Soon Can My Child Start Wearing Braces - Lyons Orthodontics

How Soon Can My Child Start Wearing Braces - Lyons OrthodonticsYou may be surprised to learn that while kids start wearing braces when they are in middle or high school, orthodontic treatment normally begins much earlier than that. The recommended age for your child’s first orthodontic evaluation is seven years of age, but this doesn’t necessarily mean that they will start orthodontic treatment at that age. Instead, several factors will have to be evaluated before your child can begin any form of orthodontic treatment. In this article, you’ll learn what the experts at Lyons Orthodontics in Folsom and Fair Oaks have to say about orthodontic care for kids.

Your Kid’s First Orthodontic Visit

The permanent teeth begin erupting when a child is about seven years old, and this makes this age the appropriate time for you to take your child to Lyons Orthodontics for their first evaluation.

During that evaluation, your orthodontist in El Dorado Hills will identify any serious orthodontic issues, such as a narrow jaw, a crossbite or malocclusion.

Once those defects are observed, Dr. Tim Lyons could recommend what is technically called “phase 1 treatment.” This type of treatment has the objective of correcting the underlying skeletal issues behind the orthodontic defect found.

The treatment could take the form of an aligner to expand the arch, or a retainer to correct tooth protrusion. This phase of treatment continues until your child’s permanent teeth have developed, and then the orthodontist in Fair Oaks will switch to Phase 2 of the treatment plan.

Do All Kids Go Through Phase 1 Treatment?

Note that not every child has to undergo Phase 1 orthodontic treatment. If an orthodontist recommends this treatment for your child, ask as many questions as you can so that you understand what the problem is and why the treatment is necessary at this time.

If you are in any doubt about the treatment recommendation, visit Lyons Orthodontics for a second opinion before you commit to the treatment plan. Remember, when problems are caught early, the solution is often less invasive and less costly, so weigh your options carefully.

Factors to Weigh Before Accepting Phase 1 Orthodontic Treatment

It is possible for the treatment to take a little longer since the orthodontist will have to wait for some permanent teeth to grow before he or she can place braces on them. Are you willing to let your child undergo this extended treatment?

Secondly, there is a possibility that your child’s growth phase could take longer than expected. When that happens, Dr. Tim Lyons points out that there is a possibility that the corrections made using Phase 1 orthodontic treatment could be outgrown and therefore have to be redone. For this reason, the orthodontic professionals at Lyons Orthodontics only recommend this early treatment when it is absolutely necessary to fix severe defects.

Additionally, some aspects of Phase 1 treatment could require your child to undergo oral surgery. This procedure carries the risk of infection and other complications. The risk of this potential trauma to your child so early in their life should be considered before the decision to proceed is made.

If the first orthodontic evaluation doesn’t uncover any serious defects that require immediate attention, then you can wait until your child is ten or older before seeing a dentist in Fair Oaks about a referral to Lyons Orthodontics for Phase 2 treatment.

Phase 2 orthodontic treatment includes fitting your child for braces to correct the existing orthodontic issues. Other options that Dr. Tim Lyons could recommend include ceramic braces, lingual aligners, and Invisalign clear aligners. These treatment devices are explored below.

Invisalign Aligners

If your child suffers from minor orthodontic defects, such as slight teeth misalignment or a minor crossbite, then he or she could be a good candidate for Invisalign aligners. These clear aligners are nearly invisible, so your child will not have to be self-conscious that everyone knows that they have braces in the mouth.

Invisalign also comes with the advantage of allowing your child to eat anything that they like to eat since he or she will remove the aligners, eat and then wear the aligners again.

However, the experts at Lyons Orthodontics say that the aligners must be in the mouth for 20-22 hours each day if the desired results are to be seen at the end of the treatment. Also, not every child is a good candidate for Invisalign since it is ideal for minor defects only. Take your child to a Folsom orthodontist for an evaluation to confirm their eligibility for these aligners.

Ceramic Dental Braces

Another option if discreetness is important for your child is the ceramic braces. The brackets of these braces are fabricated from ceramic, and this makes these components to be nearly indistinguishable from your child’s teeth.

As is the case with Invisalign, ceramic braces aren’t suitable for treating some orthodontic conditions, so it is advisable to consult Lyons Orthodontics about this option for your child.

Lingual Braces

Lingual braces differ from other types of braces in the sense that the lingual braces are attached to the back of one’s teeth instead of the front as is the case with other braces. Two things limit the applicability of these devices. First, the orthodontist has to be as skilled as the team at Lyons Orthodontics in order to pull off this treatment, so do your homework and be sure that they have the necessary skills for the job.

Secondly, not all orthodontic problems can be addressed using lingual braces. For this reason, see Dr. Tim Lyon in El Dorado Hills for an assessment of the appropriateness of these devices for your child’s orthodontic needs.

Traditional Metal Braces

This option relies on metal plates and wires to slowly move a patient’s teeth to a more desirable position. The metal brackets on these devices are attached to the patient’s teeth and only Dr. Tim Lyons or another orthodontist can remove them during a visit to the office.

The metal wires are gradually tightened over the course of the orthodontic treatment. Each time they are tightened, more pressure is applied on the teeth so that they keep moving towards the desired positions.

The downsides of this treatment pointed out by dentists in Fair Oaks are that your child will have some restrictions placed on their dietary choices in order to safeguard the braces from damage. The devices are also rather conspicuous, so your child may be self-conscious about having the braces in their mouth. We asked our friend, Dr. Chris Green, a cosmetic dentist in Parker, CO, about traditional metal braces. Dr. Green says that traditional braces are one of the more popular choices for young kids. Most teenagers would prefer Invisalign over traditional braces. But with the little ones, they don’t care as much. 

The orthodontic treatment that a Folsom orthodontist recommends for your child may come with some discomfort for your child, but this can be managed with OTC painkillers and other home remedies. If anything comes up during the treatment, contact Lyons Orthodontics immediately. We are here to help you achieve the perfect smile. Contact us today to begin your Just Smile journey!

How Much Do Braces Cost?

How much do braces cost - Lyons Orthodontics

How much do braces cost - Lyons OrthodonticsAt Lyons Orthodontics, we love creating beautiful and confident smiles. Both traditional braces and Invisalign clear aligners are great teeth straightening treatment. You’ll enjoy a straighter and more confident smile when you choose to work with us at Lyons Orthodontics. Getting braces is a fun and exciting time for all ages. In this article, Dr. Tim Lyons answers explores the different costs of braces. We highly recommend considering the following before getting brace.

How much do braces cost?

A common question we get, is how much do braces cost? The cost of this cosmetic treatment varies from patient to patient. It depends on how severely misaligned your teeth are, the type of braces you want, and whether you need additional treatment to reach your dream smile.  Overall, the more work you need, the more you’ll pay. If you have severe crossbites or need an extraction, you’ll have additional appointments to see your orthodontist or dentist. 

Typically, traditional metal braces are a more affordable option. You can expect to pay between $3,000 and $7,000 for overall treatment. Like we mentioned above, it depends on the severity of the treatment needed. Ceramic braces cost just a little bit more, which starts around $4,000. Invisalign, which is one of our more popular treatment options, can cost from about $8,000 to $10,000. Invisalign is more expensive because it is an alternative to braces. If you start Invisalign, you’ll have a series of custom clear, plastic trays that will align your teeth over time.  

Paying for Your Orthodontic Treatment

We know what you’re thinking, this is a lot of money. However, there are several ways to make braces more affordable. Talk to your dental insurance company and find out if they have any coverage for orthodontic treatments. Many dental insurance companies will cover orthodontic treatments to a certain age. Another option is paying out of pocket. Talk to our Lyons Orthodontics team about suitable payment options. Keep in mind that a portion of your payment goes to the treatment adjustments you’ll need at your orthodontics office. You’ll likely pay for these appointments one at a time as treatment goes on. 

Start Your Just Smile Journey

If you’re interested in getting braces, let our orthodontics office in Fair Oaks or El Dorado Hills know. We offer a no-obligation FREE consultation to all of our potential patients. Lyons Orthodontics is excited to welcome you on your new smile journey!

Your Options for Underbite Correction

Your Options for Underbite Correction - Lyons Ortho

Your Options for Underbite Correction - Lyons Ortho

Growing up with a dental problem can have a profound effect on your life, such as preventing you from just smiling like any other person. Fortunately, the field of dentistry has made such huge advances in recent decades that almost every dental problem can be treated or managed. You, therefore, have no reason to live with an underbite when the experts at Lyons Orthodontics can help you achieve a bright and beautiful smile. In this article, you’ll discover some of the treatment options available when you visit Lyons Orthodontics about an underbite.

What is an Underbite?

An underbite is a malocclusion characterized by the lower teeth overlapping your upper teeth by a significant proportion, about 30-50 percent. It is a common condition that affects approximately one in ten Americans.

This condition can cause a variety of problems if left untreated.  You may experience pain while you chew, talk or even breathe. Many people who have an underbite have misaligned teeth. In addition, an underbite predisposes you to gum disease since it is harder for such individuals to keep their teeth clean. Dr. Tim Lyons has also seen many cases of patients whose facial shape has been altered so much by an underbite that the chin appears to be larger than its actual size.

The effects of having an underbite will likely come sooner than later. So, the sooner you get treatment to adjust your bite the better your overall oral health will be. The following treatment options will be considered by orthodontic professionals at Lyons Orthodontics.

Dental Braces

Braces are one of the most common methods that are used not only by Dr. Tim Lyons, but also the entire orthodontics community. The braces restrain your teeth from moving. Then, gradually realign them so that the overlap between your lower teeth and uppers is minimized.

Many patients prefer braces because this option restores their smile in a gradual way that doesn’t strain the bone supporting the teeth. You may be recommended other treatment options depending on your situation. Don’t hesitate to contact our office to schedule a free consultation. 

Jaw Expanders and Retainers

We asked our friend, Dr. Chris Green, a dentist in Parker, CO, about treatment options for underbite. He explains that some people may not be good candidates for braces for a variety of reasons. For some people, jaw expanders and retainers can improve your underbite. A jaw expander stretches the cartilage and bone of the palate so that the arch gets larger as the child grows. In this way, an underbite will be avoided. Jaw expanders work so well that it takes approximately 12 months to correct an underbite.

The Cosmetic Approach

If your underbite is not severe, the orthodontic team at Lyons Orthodontics may recommend a remedy in which your lower teeth are reshaped before veneers are placed on the upper teeth. This method is a quick and simple way to get back your smile. The appearance and functionality of your teeth and jaw will be improved without an invasive procedure.

Jaw Surgery

If your underbite is severe, the possibility of having to undergo jaw surgery as a corrective method is likely. This option is sometimes the only feasible approach for adults with a severe underbite. Your dentist in Folsom, CA is likely to refer you to our Lyons Orthodontics team for this invasive procedure. During the procedure, our specialists will modify your lower jaw so that the position of the teeth matches that of the uppers. You may be recommended a retainer after surgery so that your teeth remain in place.

Tooth Extraction

Another alternative to fixing a severe underbite is tooth extraction. Dr. Tim Lyons and the Lyons team will do their best to preserve your natural teeth. However, they may have to extract a few teeth if the underbite is causing other serious issues. The extracted teeth are then replaced with restorations whose position aligns with the teeth in the upper jaw.

As you can see, there are many underbite correction options available. Of course, it all depends on your specific bite. Get in touch with us at Lyons Orthodontics and we happily see you for a free orthodontic consultation. Once we’ve met with you, we will be able to evaluate your smile and set up a treatment plan for your consideration.

Is Invisalign for Me?

Is Invisalign for me - Lyons Orthodontics - Lyons Orthodontics

Is Invisalign for me - Lyons OrthodonticsInvisalign clear aligners have become more popular over the years. Thanks to dental technology, more and more people are able to achieve a better and brighter smile because of Invisalign. So you’re probably wondering, “Is Invisalign for me?” Our team of experts, including Dr. Tim Lyons, is here to answer some of the questions you may have about this type of treatment.

People Who Want Alternatives to Traditional Teeth Straightening Methods

Are you concerned about the appearance and feel of wire braces in your mouth? Look no further than Invisalign. This form of orthodontic treatment uses nearly invisible plastic aligners to move your teeth to the ideal positions so that at the end of the treatment, you have a beautiful and confident smile!

Are you a teen or an adult who is concerned that their orthodontic treatment will make you stick out like a sore thumb? Worry no more! Invisalign allows you to adjust the position of your teeth without drawing any attention to your smile. The aligners used are clear, and no one will be the wiser when you flash a full smile with these discreet devices hardly visible.

These clear aligners come in a set, which you’ll have to change out every so often until you complete your treatment. Is that a simple way to get your perfect smile, or what!

People Who Are Particular About Being Treated by Experienced Orthodontists

At Lyons Orthodontics, it’s never transactional. It’s always relational. We truly value our patients’ experience, which is why we offer FREE consultations. Our team will recommend the most appropriate course of orthodontic treatment for you and your needs. Dentists in El Dorado Hill, CA have grown to trust that if they refer their patients to us, we will deliver the highest quality of care possible.

You can count on our professional opinions at Lyons Orthodontics to let you know if traditional braces or Invisalign are best for you. Regardless of the treatment option you choose, we’ll deliver the smile you deserve. We gladly offer Invisalign to patients with a wide array of orthodontic issues. So Invisalign treatment shouldn’t be an issue as long as you can benefit from this treatment. If you’re interested in starting your Just Smile journey, give us a call and we’ll set you up for your free consultation.

People Who Live Active Lives

Our Lyons Orthodontics family understands that you shouldn’t have to put your life on hold just because you want to improve your smile. If you live an active lifestyle between work, family, friends, and sports, Invisalign treatment won’t slow you down. You’ll only have to visit our office every 6-8 weeks or when necessary. 

How is that even possible? As already mentioned, our team carefully takes impressions and measurements upon which customized aligners are made for you. You’ll take care you set of aligners, the instructions on how to use them, and anything else you may need to achieve during your Just Smile journey. Just come in as scheduled and we will check and confirm that everything is progressing as planned and you will be out of the office in no time.

Still Have Questions?

Don’t hesitate to reach out to Dr. Tim Lyons or any of the Lyons Orthodontic team in Folsom or El Dorado Hill, CA to have all your queries answered so that you can get your new smile in a few short months. Talk to us about your insurance plan and we will help you to determine whether it will cover the treatment. At the end of it all, our team is all about giving you the opportunity to simply smile, so let us do what we do best!

Brushing with Braces

lyons orthodontics brushing with braces - Lyons Orthodontics

lyons orthodontics brushing with bracesSo, you have your new set of braces? Congratulations! Our Lyons Orthodontics Team couldn’t be more excited for you to get the beautiful smile you’ve always wanted. Now all you have to do is take good care of your teeth. We’re happy to help you along your journey, just follow the steps below if you’re brushing with braces. 

How to Brush Your Teeth with Braces

Pick the Right Toothbrush. Brushing with braces can seem tricky at first. Don’t worry, we’re here to help. You may need to have two kinds of toothbrushes for this task. First, you will need an ordinary soft-bristled toothbrush, and you will also need a proxabrush. A proxabrush resembles the structure of a Christmas tree, and this unusual toothbrush design is helpful when you are cleaning around the wires of your braces. Orthodontists in El Dorado Hill, CA, suggest that you use the ordinary brush first. You’ll clean your teeth using up and down motions. You can then use the proxabrush to clean the surfaces of the teeth that have wires. In this way, all parts of your teeth are cleaned during each session.

Floss Thoroughly. Dr. Tim Lyons explains that people who wear braces have to be more vigilant when flossing because the wires and brackets add to the places where food particles and plaque can accumulate. So, make sure you pay extra attention while flossing each day so that you remove any accumulations. Any type of floss, such as a Waterpik or a reusable floss threader, will work best.

Rinse Your Mouth and Teeth. The orthodontists at Lyons Orthodontics recommend that you add to your oral care routine is rinsing your teeth. Rinsing is not only a quick and easy method but also effective. It is best to use an antibacterial mouthwash since this can ward off gingivitis while helping to flush any accumulations on your teeth and braces.

Clean Removable Devices. If you have Invisalign clear aligners, then your oral health care routine will be a little different. You’ll want to remove your aligners daily so that you can clean out the bacteria and plaque. Use the denture-cleaning solution recommended by your orthodontist in El Dorado Hill, CA.

How Frequently Should I Clean My Braces?

Even without braces, it is appropriate to brush and floss daily. People with braces are particularly advised to have a toothbrush with them at all times, if possible. This will allow them to brush after every meal.

If that isn’t possible, Dr. Tim Lyons recommends that you rinse your mouth with plain water to remove food particles caught between the wires of your braces.

Foods to Avoid If You Wear Braces

Yes, wearing braces imposes some restrictions on your food choices, but these are intended to safeguard the braces and your oral health from preventable problems. Generally speaking, you should refrain from eating any hard or sticky foods since these pose the biggest risk to your braces and teeth. Such foods include caramel, hard candies, gum, popcorn, and nuts.

Dr. Long Luu, an orthodontist in Folsom, CA, cautions that care regarding what you expose your teeth and braces to extends to non-food items, such as ice, pencils, and fingernails. Don’t chew these objects because you may damage your braces and teeth.

Final Thoughts

Dr. Tim Lyons and his team will give you specific care instructions to follow once you get your braces. Make sure you follow those instructions so that you can get your beautiful smile within the expected treatment time. We strongly urge you to attend every follow-up appointment as scheduled. Lyons Orthodontics looks forward to the day you complete your treatment so that we can celebrate together once your braces are finally removed! If you ever have any questions, contact Lyons Orthodontics, and we’ll be happy to assist you.