Limited Treatment
At Romick Orthodontics, we understand that not all orthodontic treatments require extensive intervention. Sometimes, a shorter, more focused treatment plan — known as limited treatment — can effectively address specific dental issues. Limited treatment can involve braces, clear aligners, or other fixed appliances like expanders to achieve targeted results in a shorter time frame.
Limited orthodontic treatment is designed to address specific dental concerns rather than comprehensive alignment of the entire bite. This type of treatment is ideal for patients who have minor misalignments, gaps, or other localized issues that do not require full orthodontic treatment. Limited treatment typically involves a shorter duration and is more cost-effective compared to comprehensive orthodontic care.
Limited orthodontic treatment is suitable for patients with minor dental issues such as:
- Slight crowding or spacing
- Minor rotational problems
- Small gaps between teeth
- Mild relapse after previous orthodontic treatment
During your consultation, Dr. Romick will evaluate your dental health and determine if you are a candidate for limited treatment. The assessment will include digital scans or impressions of your teeth to create a customized treatment plan.
Benefits of Limited Treatment
Limited treatment focuses on specific problems, allowing for precise adjustments. This approach ensures that only the areas needing correction are treated, which can lead to quicker and more efficient results.
Since limited treatment addresses only targeted areas, it often takes less time to complete than comprehensive orthodontic treatment. Patients can enjoy the benefits of a straighter smile in a shorter period.
Limited orthodontic treatment is generally more affordable than full orthodontic care because it requires fewer appliances and a shorter treatment duration. This makes it an attractive option for patients seeking to improve their smiles without a significant financial commitment.
Ready to explore limited orthodontic treatment? Request a consultation with Romick Orthodontics today to learn more about how limited treatment with braces, clear aligners, or fixed appliances can benefit your smile.
TMJ/TMD Treatment
Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD) affects the temporomandibular joints (TMJ), which connect your jaw to your skull. These joints are essential for everyday activities such as chewing, speaking, and swallowing. At Romick Orthodontics, we understand the impact that TMD can have on your quality of life and are dedicated to providing effective treatments to relieve your symptoms and restore proper function.
TMD encompasses a range of conditions that cause pain and dysfunction in the jaw joints and the muscles controlling jaw movement. Common symptoms include:
- Jaw pain or tenderness
- Clicking or popping sounds when opening or closing the mouth
- Difficulty chewing or discomfort while chewing
- Locking of the jaw joint
- Headaches, particularly around the temples
- Ear pain or ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Pain in the neck and shoulders
The causes of TMD can vary and may include injury to the jaw or head, arthritis, teeth grinding (bruxism), stress, or a misaligned bite. Treatment for TMD aims to relieve pain, improve jaw function, and address any underlying issues contributing to the disorder. At Romick Orthodontics, we offer a range of treatments tailored to your specific needs:
Lifestyle modifications
In many cases, simple lifestyle changes can significantly reduce TMD symptoms. These may include:
- Dietary adjustments: Eating soft foods to minimize jaw strain.
- Stress management: Techniques such as relaxation exercises, meditation, or counseling.
- Jaw exercises: Gentle stretches and strengthening exercises prescribed by Dr. Romick.
Oral Appliances
Custom-made oral appliances, such as splints or nightguards, can help alleviate TMD symptoms. These devices are designed to fit comfortably over your teeth and can:
- Reduce teeth grinding and clenching
- Alleviate pressure on the TMJ
- Improve jaw alignment
Orthodontic Treatment
If your TMD is caused by a misaligned bite, orthodontic treatment may be necessary to correct the issue. Dr. Romick can create a personalized treatment plan using braces or clear aligners to straighten your teeth and improve your bite, ultimately relieving TMD symptoms.
At Romick Orthodontics, we believe in a personalized approach to TMD treatment. Dr. Romick works closely with you to develop a treatment plan that addresses your specific symptoms and needs. Our goal is to provide relief from pain, improve your jaw function, and enhance your overall quality of life.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of TMD, we can help! Request a consultation with Romick Orthodontics today to explore your treatment options and begin your journey towards a pain-free life.
Interceptive Treatment
At Romick Orthodontics, we believe that early intervention is key to ensuring optimal dental health and development for children. Interceptive orthodontic treatment, also known as Phase I treatment, is designed to address dental issues at an early age, providing guidance for the growth of the jaw and permanent teeth. By identifying and correcting problems early, we can help prevent more complex issues from developing later in life.
Interceptive orthodontic treatment refers to orthodontic care provided to children, typically between the ages of 6 and 10, when their jaws are still growing, and they have a mix of primary (baby) and permanent teeth. The goal of interceptive treatment is to:
- Correct functional bite issues
- Create space for incoming permanent teeth
- Guide jaw growth for proper alignment
- Prevent or reduce the need for more extensive treatment in the future
Benefits of Interceptive treatment
By starting treatment while your child’s jaw and teeth are still developing, we can identify and address potential problems before they become more severe. This proactive approach allows us to guide the growth and alignment of teeth and jaws effectively.
Correcting dental issues early can improve overall oral health by making it easier for your child to brush and floss effectively. Proper alignment reduces the risk of cavities, gum disease, and other dental issues.
Interceptive treatment can help guide jaw growth, leading to improved facial symmetry and balance. This not only enhances your child’s appearance but also supports proper function and comfort.
By addressing orthodontic issues early, interceptive treatment can reduce or eliminate the need for more extensive orthodontic procedures in the future. This can result in shorter treatment times and lower costs.
Common Treatments
Interceptive orthodontic treatment may involve a variety of appliances and techniques, depending on your child’s specific needs. Some common treatments include:
Palatal expanders and other fixed appliances are used to widen the upper jaw, creating more space for teeth to align correctly. This treatment is often used to correct crossbites and prevent overcrowding. Fixed appliances can gently guide the growth of the jaw, ensuring proper alignment and spacing for permanent teeth.
Partial braces, often referred to as a “2×4” appliance, involve placing braces on a few front teeth and molars. These braces help guide the teeth into their proper positions, preventing more significant misalignments in the future. Partial braces are effective in addressing early alignment issues and setting the stage for a well-aligned smile.
At Romick Orthodontics, we are dedicated to providing exceptional orthodontic care for children. Our team understands the importance of early intervention and works diligently to create a comfortable and positive experience for your child. With our expertise and commitment to excellence, we help children achieve healthy, beautiful smiles that last a lifetime.
Orthognathic (Jaw) Surgery
Orthognathic surgery is a corrective surgical procedure designed to address abnormalities of the jaw bones and teeth. It involves repositioning the jaws to improve their alignment and function, leading to better bite, speech, and overall facial aesthetics. This surgery is typically performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon in collaboration with an orthodontist to ensure comprehensive care.
Orthognathic surgery may be necessary for patients experiencing:
- Severe Malocclusions — Misalignment of the upper and lower teeth that cannot be corrected with braces or aligners alone.
- Jaw Discrepancies — Significant differences in the size or position of the jaws, such as an underbite or overbite.
- Sleep Apnea — Obstructive sleep apnea caused by structural issues in the jaw and airway.
- Facial Asymmetry — Imbalance in the proportions of the face due to jaw misalignment.
- Chronic Jaw Pain — Persistent pain or dysfunction in the temporomandibular joints (TMJ).
- Difficulty Chewing, Swallowing, or Speaking — Functional impairments related to jaw misalignment.
Orthognathic surgery offers numerous benefits, including:
- Enhanced ability to chew, speak, and breathe properly.
- Improved facial balance and symmetry, leading to increased confidence and self-esteem.
- Reduction or elimination of chronic jaw pain and discomfort.
- Easier to maintain good oral hygiene and reduce the risk of dental issues.
The process of treatment
If orthognathic surgery is deemed necessary, Dr. Romick will develop a personalized treatment plan in collaboration with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. This plan will outline the steps required to achieve the desired results, including pre-surgical orthodontic treatment, the surgical procedure itself, and post-surgical care.
Before the surgery, you will undergo orthodontic treatment to align your teeth in preparation for the procedure. This phase typically lasts 12 to 18 months and ensures that your teeth are in the proper position for optimal surgical outcomes.
Orthognathic surgery is performed in a hospital or surgical center under general anesthesia. Once your jaw has healed, you will continue with orthodontic treatment to fine-tune the alignment of your teeth and ensure a harmonious bite. This phase typically lasts six to twelve months and involves regular adjustments and monitoring.
Teeth Whitening
A bright, white smile can significantly enhance your appearance and boost your confidence. At Romick Orthodontics, we understand the importance of a radiant smile and offer professional teeth whitening services to help you achieve the dazzling results you desire. Our safe and effective whitening treatments can address discoloration and stains, leaving you with a smile that you can proudly show off.
While there are numerous over-the-counter whitening products available, professional teeth whitening offers several advantages:
Professional whitening treatments are more potent than store-bought products, providing noticeable results in a shorter amount of time. With our advanced whitening solutions, you can achieve a brighter smile more effectively.
Our teeth whitening procedures are conducted under the supervision of experienced dental professionals, ensuring that the treatment is safe and tailored to your specific needs. We take every precaution to minimize sensitivity and protect your gums and enamel during the whitening process.
Opalescence GO
One of our popular options for take-home whitening is Opalescence GO. This innovative whitening system provides several benefits:
Opalescence GO comes with pre-filled, disposable trays that are ready to use right out of the package. The trays are designed to fit comfortably over your teeth, ensuring even distribution of the whitening gel.
The Opalescence GO whitening gel contains a powerful yet gentle formula that effectively removes stains and discoloration. With just 15-20 minutes of daily wear, you can achieve noticeable results in as little as 5-10 days.
Opalescence GO is perfect for those with busy lifestyles. The pre-filled trays are easy to use and require no additional preparation. You can conveniently whiten your teeth at home, at work, or on the go.
To prolong the results of your teeth whitening treatment, it’s essential to maintain good oral hygiene and make mindful lifestyle choices:
- Brush and Floss Regularly — Maintain a diligent oral care routine by brushing twice a day and flossing daily to remove plaque and prevent staining.
- Avoid Stain-Causing Foods and Drinks — Limit your intake of beverages like coffee, tea, red wine, and foods that can cause staining. Rinse your mouth with water after consuming such items.
- Regular Dental Check-Ups — Schedule regular visits for professional cleanings and check-ups. This helps maintain your oral health and prolongs the effects of your whitening treatment.
Ready to brighten your smile with professional teeth whitening? Request a consultation with Romick Orthodontics today to explore your options and start your journey towards a whiter, more radiant smile.
