FAQ′s

Here you will find a list of Frequently Asked Questions we receive in our office. If your question is not included, please contact us. We want you to be well informed, and our knowledgable staff is eager to answer your questions and concerns. Thank you for visiting the site of Dr. Richard E. Crowder your local Orthodontist in Wichita.

• How do I get to Dr. Crowder's office?

  • 7015 E. Central • Wichita, KS 67206
    View Map / Get Directions

    Dr. Crowder's office is conveniently located at 7015 East Central, between Woodlawn and Rock Road. Our office is wheel-chair accessible. We are equipped with ramps and wide doorways and hallways. Just take the elevator up to the second floor, and you will find our friendly staff waiting to greet you at Dr. Crowder's office.

• What are Dr. Crowder's office hours?

  • Monday - Tuesday: 8am - 5pm
    Wednesday - Thursday: 7am - 4pm

• Tell me more about braces?

  • How Braces Work
    Your braces may not look like they're doing much, just sitting there in your mouth, but actually, there is something happening in your mouth every moment of your treatment. Picture your teeth resting in your jawbone. Your braces put pressure on one side of your teeth, and the bone on the other side gives way. The tooth moves and new bone grows in behind. It may look like nothing is happening, but your braces are building you a new smile! Braces use steady, gentle pressure over time to move your teeth into a more pleasing, healthy position. The two main components of your braces are brackets and the main arch wire that is attached to them. The bracket is a piece of metal or ceramic that is affixed to each tooth. The arch wire is bent to reflect your ideal bite - the way your teeth should look after treatment. the arch wire is threaded through the brackets and as the wire tries to return to that ideal shape, it applies pressure to make your teeth move.

    Number of People Wearing Braces
    At any one time, approximately 4 million people in the United States are wearing braces. About 25 percent of these orthodontic patients are adults!

    First Visit
    Your child will probably be apprehensive about coming to see us for braces. Assure him/her that Dr. Crowder does not give shots, and nothing he does will hurt.

    Eat Softer Foods
    For the first few days after you get your braces, we recommend that you eat softer foods. After that, you can eat most of the healthy foods you eat now. Dr. Crowder will provide you with a no-no list of foods and snacks that could damage your braces.

    Damon Braces
    Damon braces are smaller and more comfortable than the old-fashioned braces. They have a low profile design, which is less irritating to the lips, and special contours to make orthodontic treatment go faster.

    You can still talk with Braces!
    In most instances, braces will not affect your ability to talk, sing, eat, play most sports, or have fun

    Rubber Bands
    The rubber bands that we ask you to wear on your braces are very important. They contribute greatly to straighter teeth. Rubber bands create the right amount of pressure to move teeth in directions that braces can't. It's important to wear your rubber bands as prescribed and to change them every day, so that the force on your teeth is constant. Forgetting to wear your rubber bands, or not changing them consistently, can make your treatment take longer.

    Always wear your rubber bands
    Rubber bands are extremely important to the success of your orthodontic treatment. Not wearing them as directed could delay your treatment up to 1 year. We encourage patients to wear their rubber bands following the schedule Dr. Crowder provides, and change them frequently.

    What rubber bands do
    The rubber bands often used on braces are there to make your teeth in you lower jaw line up with the teeth in your upper jaw.

    Rubber bands will snap
    Orthodontic rubber bands will break after they have been chewed a few times. To avoid the pain when they snap, change your rubber bands frequently.

    Changing rubber bands at mealtimes
    We recommend you take the rubber bands off your braces before each meal and put on new ones after eating.

    Chewing gum
    Dr. Crowder may suggest that you chew a nonstick, SUGAR FREE gum. The chewing motion will help to work out the initial soreness after your appointment. The American Journal of Orthodontics indicates that the xylitol in some gum helps prevent cavities.

    Eating sticky foods
    You should not eat hard, sticky, gooey or crunchy foods while wearing braces. You can pull or knock the braces off your teeth.

    Bite-sized snacks
    Although it is possible to eat almost anything with braces, it's a good idea to cut harder foods into bite-sized pieces first. Biting into whole raw fruits and vegetables, French bread, and other crunchy snacks could loosen the wires and brackets on your braces.

    When braces come loose
    If you pull or knock your braces off, please call our office and remember to bring the brackets and any pieces with you. We can reattach them. But be careful, if this happens too often, your treatment will take longer.

    Removable appliances
    Sometimes it is possible to treat orthodontic problems with removable appliances. Unlike conventional braces, removable appliances apply pressure to different parts of your jaw. Ask Dr. Crowder whether removable appliances would work for you.

    When braces hurt
    Most orthodontic patients experience some pain the first few days after the braces are put on, and right after the wire has been changed. Talk to us if your braces continue to hurt after the first week.

    Brushing with braces
    Brushing and flossing is especially important when you wear braces. Food can get caught in the braces and cause cavities. There are many special brushes and flosses designed to work with braces. While braces cover some tooth surfaces, plaque will continue to form as usual on the exposed parts of your teeth. Enamel decalcification is a process that leaves permanent white stains where braces have been attached if a patient fails to brush regularly.

    Your questions and comments are important to us. If you did not find the answer to the question (s) you were looking for, please go back and check the other categories, or send us a comment.

• What are the Foods that I need to avoid?

  • A well balanced diet, minimizing sweets and sugared beverages is important. To avoid damaging your braces, hard crunchy and sticky foods should not be eaten.
    
    Stay Away From Hard Foods Like:
    • Popcorn
    • Nuts
    • Peanut Brittle
    • Corn Chips
    • Ice (chewing)
    • Thick Pizza Crust
    • Hard Candy
    
    Hard foods may do damage bending wires, loosening cement under the brackets and bands, or breaking the little brackets and tubes which have been attached.
    
    Avoid Sticky foods Like:
    • Taffy
    • Caramel
    • Fruit Cakes
    • Fruit Roll-Ups
    • "Gummy" Candy
    • Gum
    • Licorice
    
    Brush/Rinse Immediately After Sweets Like:
    • Candy
    • Soda Pop
    • Shakes and Malts
    • Cake and Pie
    • Cupcakes & Ice Cream
    
    High sugar foods increase the likelihood of plaque build-up. If you do eat them, brush your teeth immediately afterwards. If you cannot brush right away, always rinse your mouth with clear water after eating sweet foods or drinks.
    
    Eat with Care
    • Carrot Sticks – cut into thin curls
    • Apples – slice into small wedges; don't bite into an apple
    • Hard Breads (French) – Take small pieces; chew carefully
    • Meats – Cut into mini bites and chew carefully
    • Crackers and Biscuits – Take small pieces; chew carefully
    
    A careful orthodontic patient can probably eat almost any food, and do no damage to his or her appliance, however, use common sense or, if you are in doubt, ask our staff.

• What are retainers, and how do they work?

  • Wearing a retainer
    When braces are first removed, your teeth will be in ideal alignment, but your gums, bones, etc... will not have completely shifted into their new positions. The retainer holds your teeth in position until everything settles into their new positions. Also, the retainer will assure that a child's teeth stay in perfect alignment as they continue to grow. A retainer is a device worn full or part-time after braces have been removed. They are generally removable. The retainer is like an insurance policy to prevent your teeth from drifting or moving while the bone around your teeth hardens and stabilizes. If you stop wearing your retainer, your teeth may not move, but you won't know until it's too late. the longer you wear retainers, the better your chances that your teeth will not relapse.

    Retainers should not hurt
    A retainer is a device worn full or part-time after braces have been removed. Your retainer should not hurt. If it hurts after the first week, call us.

    Broken retainer
    A retainer is a device worn full or part-time after braces have been removed. If your child breaks his or her retainer, call us for a new one right away.

    Palatal expanders
    A palatal expander is a type retainer used to force the bones of the palate lengthwise. Palatal expanders are necessary to create room for additional teeth and future orthodontic treatment. they are usually fitted between the ages of six and nine, when your child's mouth is still quite malleable.

    Using Appliances
    If you don't wear your appliance as directed, your treatment will not proceed as planned. Orthodontic appliances are designed to deliver force in a very specific manner. Failing to follow Dr. Crowder's directions will make your treatment take longer.

    Care of Appliances
    Report a lost, broken or bent appliance to Dr. Crowder immediately to get a replacement or repair. Unwanted tooth movement may occur if the appliance is not working as designed and can also make your treatment take longer.

    If you did not find the answer to the question (s) you were looking for, please go back and check the other categories, or send us a comment so that we may get back with you.

• Why do I need X-rays?

  • Function of X-rays
    X-rays reveal problems that we can't see with the naked eye. X-rays are used to determine the position of teeth, including those that haven't erupted. Special x-rays of the head are used to determine the size, position and relationship of the jaw and teeth.

    Computer X-rays
    We have tried to decrease your exposure to radiation as much as possible. One of the ways we have done this, is by using the new Digital X-ray machine. A special computer chip transfers the information directly into our computer, reducing patient radiation exposure by as much as 90%. Ask Dr. Crowder about computer x-rays and other great breakthroughs in dental technology.

    Radiation Protection
    We do three sets of x-rays before we start your child's treatment. It may seem like a lot to you, but we want to make sure that there are no complications with your child's treatment.

• What should I expect from wearing braces?

  • Discomfort
    Orthodontic therapy uses appliances to move the teeth with gentle pressure. When braces are placed, or when adjustments are made, your teeth and gums may feel tender for a short time. The amount of discomfort varies from patient to patient, but usually does not last for more than two days. Our new Damon braces have helped in reducing the discomfort time significantly. The self ligating bracket allows for smoother more consistent movement that does not inhibit the natural movement of your teeth.

    Rubber Bands
    Your treatment may include elastics. Follow instructions carefully to acheive good results and avoid injury. Not following instructions regarding the wearing of these appliances could result in increased treatment time, and/or a less than ideal end result.

    Additional Records and X-rays
    X-rays may be needed to monitor the progress of your treatment. In addition, after your braces are removed, your orthodontist will make a new set of records. These may include X-rays, plaster models and photographs. The new records will be used to plan your retention program, check for tooth decay, and to determine the position of your wisdom teeth, if applicable. These records will also be used to gauge what changes might occur in the future due to tooth movement or growth.

    Removal of Teeth
    On occasion, teeth may need to be extracted as part of the orthodontic treatment. Dr. Crowder will recommend removal only if it improves your prospects for successful treatment.

    Timing of Treatment
    Orthodontic treatment is appropriate when patients have baby teeth as well as permanent teeth. Dr. Crowder will determine the appropriate timing of orthodontic treatment based on your specific needs. Treatment can begin as early as age 7. Phase I "interceptive treatment" may begin while baby teeth are still present. This treatment corrects harmful conditions or makes dental adjustments best taken care of while you are growing. Phase I treatment usually does not eliminate the need for later treatment of your permanent teeth. Phase I is used, in many cases, to prevent future surgery for lack of jaw growth. After Phase I treatment, your teeth may look straight, but because you are still growing, it is most likely that your permanent teeth will not come in correctly. Phase I allows us to create the space needed for Phase II of treatment where we actually bring all of the teeth into alignment. In Phase II "definitive treatment" full braces are used to adjust the position of your permanent teeth to develop a proper bite and achieve the best esthetics. This phase can start before or after you have lost all your baby teeth, and is usually necessary after Phase I treatment.

    Retainers
    When your braces are removed, you will wear a retaining appliance to "hold" your teeth in position. Retainers are just as important as braces in the treatment plan. There are different types of retention appliances, and Dr. Crowder will choose the right one for you. You will wear your retainer for the rest of your life. This does not mean everyday but periodically, after the first year, you will need to try on the retainer to make sure that it still fits. If the retainer feels tight, begin wearing the retainer at night again until it is loose again. The retainer is used to hold the teeth in place. Just as your bones grow during adolescents, your teeth grow. Unfortunately your teeth never completely stop moving. It is for this reason, we suggest that you always keep your retainer and try it on periodically. It is uncommon for your teeth to revert to there original position, but your teeth could shift, and we would lose the ideal positioning of your teeth.

    If you did not find the answer to the question (s) you were looking for, please go back and check the other categories, or send us a comment so that we may get back with you.

• What does Dr. Crowder expect from his patients?

  • Your Cooperation is Essential
    Excellent orthodontic treatment results can only be obtained with cooperative and informed patients and parents. Successful treatment is a team effort: patients, parents, staff and the orthodontist working together. The rewards? Your pleasing smile, your healthy teeth, and your glow of new self confidence.

    For best results in the shortest time and at the most convenience, you must:
       − Continue to see your General Dentist on a regular basis.
       − Keep regularly scheduled appointments.
       − Practice good oral hygiene.
       − Wear rubber bands, and retainers as instructed.
       − Call the office immediately should you experience loose or broken appliances.
       − Eat a well-balanced diet.

    Your failure to follow these rules could force Dr. Crowder to change the procedures and goals of your treatment. As a last resort, treatment might have to be suspended. Premature suspension of treatment may lead to problems involving teeth, gums, jaw joints or sever relapse of tooth positions. the consequences of early suspension may be worse than no treatment at all. Cooperation throughout treatment is your best guarantee of achieving a pleasing smile and a good bite. Please remember that following directions and recommendations are your responsibility. Dr. Crowder will encourage you, but cannot assume responsibility for making sure you follow directions!

    If you did not find the answer to the question (s) you were looking for, please go back and check the other categories, or send us a comment so that we may get back with you.

• What is involved in the treatment plan?

  • Orthodontic Examination and Records
    The first step in determining your treatment plan is learning as much about your orthodontic condition as possible. This begins with an orthodontic examination, during which Dr. Crowder will take a look at your teeth. If you are ready to start at that time, Dr. Crowder will collect a complete set of orthodontic records, which may include plaster models of your teeth, X-rays of your head, teeth, and jaw joints, and photographs.

    Planning and Consultation
    After examining your teeth, Dr. Crowder will design a treatment plan for your specific need. Dr. Crowder or the New Patient Coordinator will discuss with you any significant risks or limitations to your treatment and you will have an opportunity to discuss your concerns with Dr. Crowder. Before beginning treatment, we will request that you fill out an informed consent form before implementing the treatment plan.

    Dental Checkups
    Before orthodontic treatment begins, we suggest that you visit your family dentist for a checkup and any necessary dental work. Once orthodontic therapy begins, you will be expected to continue to see your family dentist for regular 3 to 6 month checkups and routine care. Routine dental care will help ensure the best possible results from you orthodontic therapy.

• Tell me about your scheduling, and billing

  • Keeping Appointments
    At Dr. Crowder's Office, we keep the number of appointments to a minimum, but some school time will need to be missed. Dr. Crowder personally determines for each patient, at each visit, the best time frame for scheduling the next appointment. This time frame may vary from 3-12 weeks for an active patient. Also, it is very important that you keep all your appointments. Research has proven that treatment can be adversely affected by not making adjustments within the appropriate time frame. Every appointment you miss adds time to your treatment, delaying the removal of your appliances. Since we schedule your appointments weeks in advance, it is difficult to reschedule appointments for after- school. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.

    New Patients
    At Dr. Crowder's office, we make new patients a priority. We have reserved times throughout our day to welcome new patients. Dr. Crowder strives to see all new patients as soon as possible to determine the best orthodontic treatment plan. It is Dr. Crowder's belief, however, that a new family deserves his uninterrupted attention for this important visit, so you will not be scheduled during the hectic after-school rush.

    Payment Plans Billing and Insurance
    Dr. Crowder believes that orthodontic treatment should be as affordable as it is essential. That's why he's committed to offering flexible financing plans that make orthodontic treatment fit into your budget. We provide a 5% Bookkeeping Courtesy if your account is paid in full within 30 days of the records appointment. At Dr. Crowder's office, we consider it a privilege to care for 2nd and additional family members, and are pleased to provide a 5% Family Courtesy for each additional patient from the same immediate family. Our staff is happy to file claims for you and assist you with completing your insurance forms. When you come to visit Dr. Crowder's office, speak with one of our friendly staff, and find out what the perfect payment plan is for you.

    Patient Financing
    Dr. Crowder wants his patients and families to walk out of his office smiling. That's why Dr. Crowder contracts with several patient financing companies. Our financing companies have flexible payment plans that fits easily into your budget. They allow patients, especially parents with two or more children, to start orthodontic treatment with no money down and low monthly payments over an extended period of time! There is also significant tax advantage, and the application process is fast and confidential. To start your treatment immediately, using one of our financing companies click here to learn more about our companies and choose the one that fits you best.

    If you did not find the answer to the question (s) you were looking for, please go back and check the other categories, or send us a comment so that we may get back with you.

• Misc. answers to common questions.

  • Treatment for all ages
    Dr. Crowder and his staff provide orthodontic care in Wichita for everyone, from children to adults. Whatever your orthodontic needs are we are here to help you achieve them. Our goal is to keep your smile healthy and beautiful! Dr. Crowder wants you to know that it is never too late in life to have the satisfaction of a dazzling, perfect smile.

    Initial fitting appointment
    The day you get your braces on will be the longest appointment you will have with us. The technical skills required of the staff require these appointments be scheduled first thing in the morning or first thing in the afternoon. At Dr. Crowder's office, we know you want your braces on perfect the first time, and the length of the appointment demands that Dr. Crowder, the patient, and the technician be very fresh and alert. Your trust and your confidence as well as your peace of mind are important to us.

    Information about new services & procedures
    Dr. Crowder believes that all his patients deserve the very best orthodontic treatment available in Wichita. He and his professional staff are committed to using state-of-the-art techniques to make your treatment as effective and comfortable as possible. In order to achieve this goal, Dr. Crowder only uses the best materials available, such as the revolutionary Damon Brackets. He does not use any reconditioned or reprocessed orthodontic products on his patients. It is our policy to only use the highest quality, most technologically advanced products for your orthodontic treatment. We are committed to providing you with the latest technologies for the greatest smiles.

    Referrals
    If you are looking for a dental specialist, please ask our friendly and helpful staff. We would be happy to recommend professionals who will provide you with the same high standard of care you enjoy at our practice. We work with the best in the area, and want you to receive nothing but the best in your orthodontic and dental care.

• Tips about good hygiene habits.

  • Brushing
    Dr. Crowder encourages all his patients to follow these guidelines for maximum oral health and comfortable orthodontic treatment. Always remember to brush your teeth and your braces thoroughly after every meal and snack for about three minutes. Brushing is always important, but while wearing braces it is critical. Remember that even a small snack can cause stains or discoloration of your teeth if food particles are not properly removed from your braces after eating. If you are unable to brush your teeth, try rinsing your mouth with water to loosen food that might otherwise remain trapped in your braces. Be sure to maintain a regular dental cleaning schedule with your family dentist to ensure optimum oral hygiene and prevention of cavities. Your dental health and good oral hygiene are part of the key to successful orthodontic treatment!

    Flossing
    Dr. Crowder advises flossing during your orthodontic treatment. Our office or your pharmacist can provide you with a threader which is a great way to get floss in between your braces or fixed appliances. Floss between the teeth and work it up under the gums. Doing this prevents cavities from forming in-between teeth. Repeat this process between all teeth.

    Types of mouthwash
    There are so many mouthwashes on the market today. However, many brands only eliminate bad breath for as little as 30 seconds! Anti-plaque or anti-gingivitis mouth rinses are designed to kill the bacteria that produce plaque. Fluoride mouth rinses help prevent decay by strengthening the tooth enamel and making it more resistant to decay. Dr. Crowder wants to stress, that either of these two mouthwashes will be helpful, but only after thoroughly brushing and flossing your teeth.

    Nutrition & Oral Health
    Dr. Crowder knows how important it is for all of his patients to follow a program of good oral care. This can greatly contribute to your overall nutrition and general well being. You'll be able to chew more easily, digest food better, and enjoy a wide variety of nutritious foods. By practicing daily oral hygiene at home, eating nutritious meals, and making regular dental visits, you will help ensure that your mouth stays healthy. A bright, healthy smile will make you look and feel great about yourself!

    Good Diet & Good Teeth
    Not only is your diet important to your general health, it is also important to your dental health. If you do not eat a balanced diet, you are more likely to get tooth decay and gum disease. Developing teeth can also be affected. Children who have a poor diet are more likely to have dental problems. Pregnant women need balanced diets for their babies teeth to develop normally.

    Foods to avoid with braces
    Dr. Crowder advises that you eat softer foods for the first week when you get your braces. After that, you can eat most of the good things you eat now. However, you should not eat hard, sticky, gooey or crunchy foods while wearing braces, as this could pull the brackets off your teeth. If you must eat some harder foods, try cutting them into bite-sized pieces first. Biting into whole raw fruits and vegetables, french bread, bagels and other crunchy snacks could loosen the wires and brackets on your braces, and increase your chances of extended treatment time. Also try avoiding extra sugar in your diet as this can cause decay around your brackets and bands.

• What if I have a problem with an orthodontic appliance?

  • When Braces come loose
    If a bracket is loose or comes off, call Dr. Crowder's office right away! He and his staff can reattach them. But you must be careful, because if this happens too often, your treatment will take longer. Do not try and fix them yourself, come and see Dr. Crowder, to continue on your path to straighter teeth!

    Irritation of wires
    If a wire on your braces is causing irritation, you can be made more comfortable by pushing it away from the area being irritated by using the eraser end of a pencil or a cotton swab. If the wire cannot be tucked away, cover the end with a small piece of wax, sugarless gum or cotton ball until you can come in and have Dr. Crowder take a look at it. Cutting the wire may also be done as a last resort if professional help is unavailable.

    Instructions for lost separators
    It is quite common for patients to lose at least one separator during the process that prepares your mouth for braces. Be sure to call Dr. Crowder's office, so we can replace your missing separator.

    Instructions for loose brackets
    Losing a bracket can mean losing valuable treatment time, so it is essential that you set up a bracket replacement appointment as soon as possible if you have a loose or missing bracket. Dr. Crowder must replace the bracket quickly, to prevent your teeth from moving or shifting out of their new positions. If your teeth move incorrectly, they may create malocclusions that will take additional time to correct. We have set aside special emergency time slots everyday to do this.

    Instructions for a Lost or Broken Retainer
    If you have a lost or broken retainer, make sure you contact our office immediately. In most cases, Dr. Crowder will need to create a duplicate retainer to complete your orthodontic treatment. When your teeth are just settling in to their new healthy and straight positions, your retainer is essential to maintaining the smile achieved by your braces. For this reason, wearing and taking good care of your retainer is just as important as wearing your braces! Make sure that you set up a retainer replacement appointment within 48 hours of losing or breaking your retainer, to prevent your teeth from shifting back to their old positions.

    Relieving discomfort associated with treatment
    Most orthodontic patients experience some discomfort the first week after their braces are put on, and right after routine adjustments to the braces. If your braces are causing soreness in your jaw joints, try using a moist heat compress or a warm wash cloth to apply gentle pressure and alleviate the ache. For natural or homeopathic pain relief, try drinking a cup of hot marigold tea or try rinsing your mouth with a teaspoon of salt dissolved in a glass of warm water. The all-natural ingredients in these remedies provide safe and effective relief for younger orthodontic patients or pregnant women undergoing orthodontic treatment. This discomfort should subside in approximately two to three days after you get your orthodontic appliances.

• Are there problems that can occur during treatment?

  • Cavities and Decalcification
    Orthodontic braces do not cause cavities, but they do trap food particles and increase the likelihood of you developing cavities or decalcification (white) marks, if you do not brush well. Most patients are able to prevent these problems with a combination of proper diet, good tooth brushing habits and regular checkups with the family dentist. you should brush your teeth immediately after eating, using the proper techniques for brushing with braces. If brushing right away is not possible, vigorously rinsing with several mouthfuls of water is helpful. Excellent oral hygiene and plaque removal are musts. Check for loose bands or brackets daily. If any part of your orthodontic appliance becomes loose, call the office immediately to schedule an appointment. When you miss appointments and are not seen regularly by Dr. Crowder, loose bands can go undetected and may result in tooth damage, or prolonged treatment time.

    Swollen Gums
    Your braces may touch or press on your gums in some areas of your mouth. This gum tissue may get sore and swollen if you do not brush well. Your gums and braces need to be brushed and cleaned thoroughly after eating to keep them healthy. Let Dr. Crowder know right away if you suspect you have a periodontal (gum) problem. Periodontal disease may lead to receding gums and gradual loss of supporting bone for your teeth. Some people are more susceptible to the disease than others. the exact causes are unknown, but there are some well-established contributing factors, including unsatisfactory oral hygiene, accumulation of plaque and debris around teeth and gums, incorrect brushing and general health problems. If severe periodontal disease occurs during orthodontic treatment, it may be difficult or impossible to control bone loss and subsequent loss of teeth. Consultation and treatment by a periodontist, a dentist who specializes in treating gum disease, may be advised. If periodontal problems during orthodontic treatment cannot be controlled, treatment may be discontinued.

    Root Resorption
    Root resorption is a shortening of the tooth roots. It can occur with or without orthodontic appliances and it is impossible to predict susceptibility to this condition. Some patients are predisposed to this occurring, while most are not. Slight changes in root length are usually insignificant, but occasionally with severe changes, the longevity of the teeth involved may be jeopardized. The incident may increase with extended orthodontic treatment. Your cooperation during treatment is very important in the prevention of root resorption.

    Loss of Tooth Vitality
    On rare occasions, teeth that have been previously traumatized, have large fillings, or periodontal problems, may experience tooth discoloration and/or nerve degeneration during orthodontic treatment. In such cases, root canal treatment might be necessary to maintain the health of a tooth. bleaching may also be recommended to restore a more natural tooth color.

    Impacted Teeth
    Teeth are "impacted" when they stay partially or completely under the gum. While impaction usually occurs when your teeth are too crowded for a new tooth to emerge, it can also happen for no apparent reason. Treatment depends on the cause and the importance of the impacted tooth to the jaw structure. The most common impacted teeth are the "wisdom teeth". These teeth may not grow into place properly because the jaw does not have sufficient room to accommodate proper eruption. Dr. Crowder may recommend their extraction.

    Ankylosed Teeth
    In some instances, teeth will not move because they are attached to the jaw bone (ankylosed). When a tooth is ankylosed, adjacent teeth may be forced to move, which may affect your bite. An ankylosed tooth may require surgery for movement into place or removal.

    Injuries from Appliances
    A number of orthodontic appliances are used in orthodontic treatment. It is important that you follow closely Dr. Crowder's instructions regarding their use. However, there is always some risk of injury in the use of appliances.

    Braces
    Because your braces may project from your teeth, a blow to the face can scratch or cut the inside of your lips or cheeks. Loose or broken wires and bands can also scratch or irritate your cheeks, gums or lips. Dr. Crowder has wax available to cover problem areas like this. If problems develop, call the office for an appointment. Dislodged or broken braces can be swallowed or inhaled. The risk of dislodging your braces is increased when sticky or crunchy foods are eaten. Do not eat hard candy, ice, caramel or similar foods. Your technician will review foods that are not to be eaten.

    Retainers
    If your retainer breaks, stop wearing it immediately. Call the office as soon as possible so that your retainer can be repaired or replaced.

    Injuries During Treatment Procedures
    Dr. Crowder's treatment may involve the use of instruments that could accidentally scratch or injure your mouth. It is also possible to accidentally swallow or inhale a small orthodontic appliance. Although Dr. Crowder will use great care in applying and removing your braces and other bonded attachments, damage may occur to teeth previously weakened by cracks in the enamel, undetected cavities or weak fillings.

    Jaw Joint Pain and/or Clicking
    Occasionally problems may occur in the jaw joints, i.e. temporomandibular joints (TMJ) and associated muscles, causing joint pain, limited opening, muscle aches and joint noises, i.e. clicking. Earaches and headaches are sometimes related complaints. Multiple factors are usually responsible for these signs and symptoms, including some which are controlled by the central nervous system. Some of the most common causes of TM disorders (TMD) are chronic muscle tension associated with clenching or gnashing of the teeth, or habits such as gum chewing or stressed jaw posture at work or during sleep. the symptoms may originate with a joint disease, such as arthritis or result after a previous trauma, such as a blow to the face or sometimes from a whiplash type injury. The severity of the symptoms may be affected by tension, mood, and emotional distress. Neck and shoulder muscle tension may be a major contributor by exaggerated by faulty function of the pain suppression system at various levels of the nervous system. In the past, it was believed that an imperfect bite (dental malocclusion) or a malpositioned lower jaw was the cause of TMD problems. However, occlusion as a cause of TMD has not been well demonstrated, despite many investigations seeking to test this relationship. "Bite problems" that occur with TMD are most often the result of the problem rather than the cause of the problems. TM disorders are musculoskeletal problems similar to aches and pains in other joints of the body. A TM disorder is most often treated as a medical problem and not necessarily a dental problem. Treatment may require specialized care from other health professionals such as a TMD specialist, physical therapist, and stress control specialist. These procedures are beyond the scope of the usual orthodontic treatment, and if they are indicated, additional costs may be incurred. If your TMD symptoms prevent you from wearing elastics, or any other appliance to correct your bite, Dr. Crowder may recommend an alternate or compromise treatment. Any TMD signs or symptoms should be reported promptly to your orthodontist.

    Tooth Attrition and Enamel Loss
    The biting surfaces of adult teeth are frequently worn down by tooth grinding or jaw clenching behavior. tooth interferences during jaw movements can also contribute to tooth wear. As your teeth move during orthodontic treatment, your bite will steadily change and new interferences may arise. Halting enamel loss is not easy. It is difficult for orthodontics alone to establish a bite completely free from interference during jaw movement. Psychological stress or conditioned habits may be the cause of grinding or clenching. The biting surface of the teeth may need reshaping by special dental procedures. In some cases, an appliance to control the rate of enamel wear may be considered. Such procedures are beyond the scope of usual orthodontic therapy.

    Orthognathic Surgery
    You may need both orthodontic treatment and surgery to modify the size, shape, or position of your jaw. As with all surgical procedures, the risk of complications with oral surgery is a possibility. Discuss these risks thoroughly with your oral surgeon if your orthodontist recommends surgery.

    Relapse Tendencies
    "Relapse" refers to the movement of the teeth back toward their original positions after your braces have been removed. Ideally, your teeth should remain stable after retention. However, teeth can move at any time, whether or not they have had orthodontic treatment. The most vulnerable teeth are those in the lower front. Periodontal disease, mouth breathing, and harmful tongue or oral habits can cause teeth to move. For these reasons, and many others beyond the control of your orthodontist, it cannot be guaranteed that your teeth will remain in a perfect position for the rest of your life. Your teeth are unlikely to "relapse" to their original position if you use your retainer properly' but if you do not, you may undo much or all of the progress you have made. Some patients must wear a retainer indefinitely to keep their teeth aligned. If you do not wear your retainer as directed, your orthodontist cannot assume responsibility for undesirable tooth movement. Make sure you keep appointments for retention adjustment as scheduled.

• What do the different phases of treatment mean?

  • Length of Treatment
    Dr. Crowder can only estimate the length of time you will have to wear braces. Several things influence your treatment, including growth patterns and your cooperation. Orthodontic treatment will vary according to how much your jaw needs to stretch and how far your teeth must move. You also must wear your elastics and removable appliances according to Dr. Crowder's instructions to help speed up your treatment. Dr. Crowder and his staff are committed to making your treatment as swift and effective as possible!

    Adult Treatment
    Dr. Crowder wants adults to know that braces aren't just for kids anymore! Many adults today are correcting problems they never had treated when they were children. They can now experience the satisfaction of having that perfect smile at any age. Make an appointment today to see Dr. Crowder and know it is never too late to make a smiling first impression!

    Wearing a retainer
    We are proud to say that at Dr. Crowder's office we do not use regular bulky retainers. Our techniques include using light forces that need fewer adjustment appointments. This is made possible by using wires, bands and brackets made with the very latest in scientific technology. Our retainers are invisible-so there is no more bulk in the roof of your mouth, and no more wires. At each visit, Dr. Crowder will personally check the fit of your retainer and monitor your wearing schedule. Because retainer check appointments are less frequent, Dr. Crowder schedules these appointments in the early morning or early afternoon.

    Wearing Rubber Bands
    The elastics that we ask you to wear on your braces are very important. They work to create just the right amount of pressure to move your teeth in the directions that braces can't do alone. Elastics are usually attached between upper and lower or front and back teeth. It is important to wear your elastics exactly as instructed and to change them two to three times a day, so that the force on your teeth is constant. Forgetting to wear your elastics, or not changing them consistently, may make your treatment time longer. If you are unsure of your instructions for wearing or changing your rubber bands, please contact our office as soon as possible for assistance.

    Damon Brackets
    For a radical new movement in orthodontics, try Dr. Crowder's revolutionary Damon Brackets. The Damon Bracket is a self-ligating bracket that enhances quality treatment while maximizing efficiency. It proves to be a faster treatment by design, providing optimal tooth movements and patient comfort. A unique ligating slide allows the archwire to move freely, dramatically reducing friction. This reduced friction allows the use of lighter forces to move your teeth more comfortably. Together these features work to produce the desired effects: reduced chair time, shorter treatment time, and happier patients. The Damon Bracket, the appliance of the future, that you can get today.

    First Phase
    The goals of your first-phase treatment are: to develop both the upper and lower jaws sufficiently to accommodate all of the permanent teeth and to correctly relate the upper and lower jaws to each other. Because bone growth is so rapid in children, they can benefit enormously from an early phase of orthodontics. Early treatment may prevent the later removal of permanent teeth to correct overcrowding and surgical procedures to align the upper and lower jaws. During the first phase, orthodontic records will be necessary to help determine your treatment plan, and the type of appliances needed.

    Retention
    The retention period follows the first-phase of your treatment. During this period, permanent teeth are allowed to erupt. Retention appliances may be recommended at the end of the first-phase, but most often retainers are used to hold the space created during first-phase. The retainer is used only for a short period as the permanent teeth are erupting at this time. The teeth will not be in their final position at the completion of the first-phase. This will be accomplished during the second-phase. During this retention period your baby teeth may need to be removed in order to create the space necessary to receive the permanent teeth. If this takes place, your general dentist will be sent a letter. It is also important that during orthodontic treatment you continually see your dentist every four to six months for regular check-ups.

    Second Phase
    During your second-phase treatment each tooth has a specific location in the mouth where it interacts with the cheeks, tongue, jaws, joints, and other teeth. When in their proper position, the teeth will function together properly. Second-phase will align and rotate your teeth so they fit together in the optimum position for your mouth.

• What are the causes of some Dental problems?

  • Teeth Grinding
    Stress is one reason why many people grind their teeth at night; however, there are several other reasons for this condition. Problems with jaw alignment, and "occlusion" or the way teeth come together, is often a factor for teeth-grinders.

    Chewing Ice
    Chewing ice on a regular basis can cause damage to your teeth. The main problem is that ice is hard and can cause fracture lines in your teeth. Fracture lines can cause sensitivity to cold or biting pressure, and may eventually cause a piece of the tooth to fracture right off. Ice chewing can also cause the enamel to wear more quickly on your teeth making them more susceptible to decay, and possibly lead to TMJ - a condition that causes painful jaw movements.

    Oral Piercing
    current oral piercing trends involve puncturing the lips, cheeks, tongue, or any combination of these sites. However, most people don't realize that the piercing of oral structures presents a high risk of infection because of the vast amounts of bacteria in the mouth. common symptoms after piercing include pain, swelling, infection, and gum injury. Risks include airway obstruction after swallowing jewelry, prolonged bleeding, chipped or cracked teeth after accidentally biting pieces of jewelry, scar tissue formation, and speech impediments.

    Jaw Pain
    Pain, discomfort, clicking or popping noises may occur in or near the joint of the jaw at any time, including during orthodontic treatment. Just as with any discomfort, the possible causes vary widely, but its important that you tell Dr. Crowder about any jaw or joint problems so they can be dealt with promptly.

    Death of a Tooth
    Sometimes, even a minor bump can result in damage to a tooth. It's possible for the nerve of a tooth to die during orthodontic treatment, especially if there was a previous injury, bump or impact. These injuries can't always be detected during the diagnostic stage of your treatment, it's important for you to tell us about any previous injuries or stress to your teeth.

    Canker Sores
    If you suffer from canker sores or recurring painful ulcers in your mouth, you may want to switch toothpaste. It has been suggested that SLS, an ingredient found in most toothpastes, may play a role in causing oral ulcers.

    Sensitive Teeth
    Sensitive teeth can be caused by many things and vary from mild to moderate. Tooth pain caused by sensitivity to cold or pressure can be caused by gum recession, brushing too hard, or eating highly acidic food which exposes the tiny nerve pores on the roots of your teeth. Special toothpastes can help reduce tooth sensitivity by re-covering these delicate pores.

    Cracked Teeth
    Teeth are one of the hardest substances in our bodies. yet depending on what you chew, even the strongest can go to pieces. Every time you grind your teeth together, or against an object, you're adding stress and gradually damaging them. If a tooth is already weak and you bite down on a hard object, it may crack. You should avoid chewing on pencils, ice cubes and popcorn kernels because they could help break a tooth. If you've noticed extra sensitivity to cold or occasional pain, especially when you bite down, you may already have a cracked tooth. See your dentist to find out.

    Dry Mouth
    Reduced saliva flow that results in a dry mouth is a common problem among older adults. It is caused by certain medical disorders and is often a side effect of medications. If left untreated, dry mouth can damage your teeth. Without adequate saliva to lubricate your mouth, wash away food, and neutralize the acids produced by plaque, extensive cavities can form. Your dentist can recommend various methods to restore moisture, such as sugar-free candy or gum to stimulate saliva flow, or artificial saliva and oral rinses.

    Gingivitis
    Irritation from bacteria and plaque as well as tartar around teeth can cause the gumline to become red and swollen. This condition, known as gingivitis, is easily reversible with improved oral hygiene and a consultation with your dentist.

    Periodontits
    The stages of gum disease are described as early, moderate, and advanced periodontist. The disease can be either localized, where one or a few teeth are involved, or generalized where all teeth are affected.

Some of the information found within comes directly from "You & Your Orthodontist" California Association of Orthodontists Revised 1998.