Wisdom teeth are the third set of molars that typically emerge between the ages of 17 and 25. Most people have four wisdom teeth, one on each side of the upper and lower jaw. However, some people may have fewer or even no wisdom teeth at all.
Why are They Called Wisdom Teeth?
Wisdom teeth are called such because they emerge later in life, typically when a person is in their late teens or early twenties, which is often considered the age of wisdom. However, there is also a theory that they are called wisdom teeth because they are the last teeth to emerge, and by then, a person is expected to have gained some wisdom.
Why Do We Have Wisdom Teeth?
The purpose of wisdom teeth is not entirely clear, but researchers believe that they may have been necessary for our ancient ancestors, who had larger jaws and ate a tougher diet. Today, wisdom teeth are often unnecessary and can cause problems for many people.
What are the Problems Associated with Wisdom Teeth?
When wisdom teeth emerge, they can cause a variety of problems, including:
Crowding: Wisdom teeth can push other teeth out of alignment, causing crowding and discomfort.
Impacted teeth: Sometimes, wisdom teeth do not emerge fully or at all, becoming impacted in the jawbone. This can lead to pain, swelling, and infection.
Infections: Wisdom teeth can be difficult to clean, making them more prone to infection and decay.
Cysts: Cysts can form around wisdom teeth that are impacted, which can damage nearby teeth and bone.
When Should Wisdom Teeth be Removed?
Not all wisdom teeth need to be removed, but in many cases, it is the best course of action. If you are experiencing pain or swelling, or if your dentist sees evidence of decay or infection, you may need to have your wisdom teeth removed. Additionally, if your wisdom teeth are causing crowding or other problems with your bite, your dentist may recommend removal.
What is the Procedure for Removing Wisdom Teeth?
Removing wisdom teeth is a common outpatient procedure that is typically performed under local anesthesia. If the teeth are impacted, your dentist or oral surgeon may need to make an incision in the gum and remove a small amount of bone to access the teeth. After the teeth are removed, you will need to follow your dentist’s instructions for aftercare, which may include pain medication, ice packs, and a soft food diet.
In Conclusion
Wisdom teeth can be a source of discomfort and pain for many people. If you are experiencing problems with your wisdom teeth, it is important to talk to your dentist about the best course of action. While not all wisdom teeth need to be removed, in many cases, removal is the best way to alleviate pain and prevent further problems.
Consult With Orthodontic Experts
Call or text us (303)428-3613 today to schedule a complimentary orthodontic consultation with one of our board certified orthodontic specialists today. At Cronin & Czarnik Orthodontics we always monitor the development of your wisdom teeth and can provide you with a referral to an oral surgeon or dentist at the appropriate time. The American Association of Orthodontics recommends scheduling your child’s first orthodontic consultation at the age of 7. However, we welcome both children and adults of all ages to our practice and look forward to meeting you!
Invisalign has been growing in popularity with both children and adults. Given how effective and comfortable Invisalign clear aligners are it’s no wonder people are opting for this treatment to straighten and align their teeth. In place of traditional metal brackets and wires, these custom-fit, clear aligners, move your teeth gradually into the optimal position. This treatment offers far more flexibility allowing for fewer visits to the office and faster treatment results!
How to Choose an Invisalign Provider?
If you are thinking about starting Invisalign clear aligner treatment, we are here to break things down for you. Choosing a credible, experienced orthodontist that will give you a customized treatment plan is the first step. Both doctors at Cronin & Czarnik Orthodontics pride themselves on being the best at what they do. Dr. Cronin and Dr. Czarnik have received Invisalign’s highest award possible and are Diamond Plus Providers.
What Does Diamond Plus Mean?
Invisalign providers are broken down into tiers by how much experience they have. This is based upon how many patients they have treated with Invisalign clear aligners. The most experienced doctors receive a Diamond Plus Top 1% rating. Dr. Cronin and Dr. Czarnik are proud to have provided outstanding care to so many patients that they are Diamond Plus Top 1% Providers.
Why Experience Matters?
No case is too challenging or complex
We have a proven history of providing outstanding care to thousands of patients
Your treatment is more efficient allowing you to achieve a perfect smile in less time
You can relax knowing that you are in good hands
Who Is a Candidate for Invisalign?
ALMOST ANYONE! Do you have…
Crooked teeth
Crowded teeth
Gaps between teeth
Overbite or underbite
Crossbite
Open bite or deep bite
Bite issues
Chipping teeth or wear on your teeth
Missing teeth
TMJ or jaw pain
If you have any of the above or are just curious to learn more about orthodontics with Invisalign we are happy to help! There are no age restrictions and no case is too difficult for Dr. Carolyn Cronin & Dr. Scott Czarnik.
Each case is unique and we would love to talk to you about YOUR smile!
Call or text our office to inquire about scheduling your complimentary exam: (303) 428-3613
Proudly serving the North Denver community (Westminster, Arvada, Thornton, Northglenn and more!) as well as our second location in Winter Park, CO serving Grand County (Winter Park, Granby, Hot Sulphur Springs and more!)
A small or narrow upper jaw is often behind some of the common orthodontic problemsDr. Cronin and I treat, including crowded top teeth and crossbites. But, did you know, aside from the appearance of your smile, the size of your jaw can also have a direct effect on your overall health and wellbeing?
Research shows a small jaw is tied to:
Stuffy Noses and Sinus Issues
Your palate (the roof of the mouth), which is part of the bone that forms the upper jaw, called the maxilla, is the base of your nose. Yup, that means when the upper jaw or palate is narrow, the floor of the nose is also narrow.
A narrow nasal cavity makes you more susceptible to stuffy noses and sinus issues. It also interferes with your ability to properly breathe through your nose in general.
Nasal breathing is actually incredibly important. In a review published in Current Trends in Otolaryngology and Rhinology, the authors noted that nasal breathing gives us our sense of smell, enhances oxygen absorption by the lungs, filters out impurities and humidifies and warms the air we breathe. It’s also crucial for craniofacial development, head posture, TMJ function and more.
Mouth Breathing
If you can’t breathe out of your nose properly, you’re forced to breathe out of your mouth. Mouth breathing is fine when you’re doing intense exercise or you have the occasional cold. But when it’s chronic, it becomes a huge problem. And since mouth breathing usually happens at night during sleep, people often don’t notice that they or their child are even doing it.
When you’re constantly breathing through your mouth, the body has to compromise to ensure there is enough oxygen in the blood at the expense of other biological functions. This can cause a host of consequences, including sleep-disordered breathing.
In young children who are still growing, mouth breathing and jaw development are a double-edged sword. Nasal obstruction from a small upper jaw can cause mouth breathing, but mouth breathing can also cause a small upper jaw and nasal obstruction, as well as other skeletal changes.
Chronic mouth breathers frequently develop a long, narrow face, receding chin and narrow dental arch. As the permanent teeth erupt, crowding, a crossbite and poor tongue posture are then much more likely.
Sleep-Disordered Breathing, Including Obstructive Sleep Apnea
There are a number of different causes of sleep apnea and other types of sleep-disordered breathing like upper airway resistance syndrome. But the mouth breathing we talked about above is a big one.
With a small upper jaw, there isn’t enough room for the tongue to rest in the proper position. It can sit lower and further back than it should. Kids and adults may also have weakened oral muscles. The tongue and lax tissues can then obstruct the airway during sleep, temporarily stopping breathing, which is called obstructive sleep apnea.
Sleep-disordered breathing causes poor quality sleep, decreased oxygen intake, which stresses internal organs, including the brain, and constant adrenaline surges during sleep.
In adults, sleep apnea produces symptoms, including:
Daytime fatigue
Concentration difficulties
Cognitive impairment
Decreased libido
Depression
It also significantly increases the risk for:
Diabetes
Heart disease
High blood pressure
Stroke
In kids, the symptoms of sleep-disordered breathing are different. Unlike adults whose first sign there is a problem is fatigue, kids tend to get hyperactive instead. The sleep deprivation and reduced oxygen intake can cause:
Bedwetting
Loss of appetite
Lack of focus
Behavioral problems, including aggression
Increased risk of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
Headaches
Poor school performance
Disrupted Stress Response
Stanford researchers published a study in the journal BioScience exploring the epidemic of health conditions caused by small jaws. One of the many interesting topics covered was stress.
Stress interrupts sleep but poor quality and quantity of sleep caused by sleep-disordered breathing also causes stress, creating a dangerous feedback system.
The authors said that this results “in more or less constant sympathetic arousal.” With the body’s stress response chronically activated, it takes a toll on physical, emotional and psychological health.
Jaw Pain and Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Dysfunction
The teeth and jaw are part of your larger dental and facial system, which also includes the lips, tongue, facial muscles and temporomandibular joints. When one component is off, such as in the case of a too-small upper jaw, it throws everything else off too.
This bite imbalance puts stress on the TMJ and jaw, potentially causing jaw pain, discomfort and TMJ disorders. It also increases your risk for teeth grinding and clenching (bruxism), which makes the pain and dysfunction even worse.
Neck Pain and Headaches
Speaking of bruxism and TMJ disorders, both problems can cause headaches on their own. Combined with airway obstruction and malocclusion (a bad bite) from a small jaw, things can get pretty painful.
The review published in Current Trends in Otolaryngology and Rhinology I talked about earlier noted that people with an obstructed airway commonly have a forward head posture. Holding the head forward stresses the cervical spine and neck muscles, causing pain and, over time, nerve compression and spinal issues.
Another study in the Journal of Oral Rehabilitation of patients with TMJ disorder and airway resistance syndrome (a form of sleep-disordered breathing) also found most had a forward head posture and suffered from neck pain and headaches.
Inflammation
Many of the issues on this list, including sinus problems, sleep deprivation from sleep-disordered breathing, TMJ disorder and bruxism can contribute to persistent inflammation.
When teeth are crowded because of a small jaw and narrow dental arch, it may exacerbate the issue. Because crowded teeth are harder to effectively clean, you have a higher risk of developing tooth decay and periodontal disease, or gum disease.
According to a 2019 article in Disease-A-Month Journal, “As periodontal disease works on the same chronic inflammation model seen in systemic diseases, there is sufficient evidence to suggest a bi-directional link between the two.” In basic terms, this means gum disease is tied to other inflammatory health conditions, including heart disease, respiratory disease, diabetes and stroke.
The Good News? All of These Issues are Preventable
Now that I’ve probably freaked you out, let’s talk about the bright side. There have been so many advancements in airway-focused orthodontics. At Cronin & Czarnik Orthodontics, we use different techniques to widen the upper jaw in order to prevent, intercept or treat malocclusion and the related airway and breathing problems.
In children and younger teens, the two halves of the maxilla aren’t fused yet. So we can use a Schwartz appliance or other palate expander to push the halves apart and expand the jaw. Eventually, new bone forms in the center, stabilizing the expansion. This can lead to significant improvements in quality of life.
Starting treatment when kids still have some of their baby teeth ensures when the permanent teeth come in, they’ll have enough room to erupt centered in the bone. This means less crowding and avoiding the need for extractions or surgical correction.
As for adults, while in the past palatal expansion wasn’t possible without orthognathic surgery (jaw surgery), that’s changing. Dr. Cronin and I offer a cutting-edge, non-surgical technique known as maxillary skeletal expansion (MSE), also called miniscrew-assisted rapid palatal expansion (MARPE), for certain cases.
We place a palatal expander and secure it with temporary implants in the palate. We do all of this in the office with just local anesthesia. The expander widens the upper jaw to treat a crossbite, crowding and other types of malocclusion with the benefit of also being a minimally invasive form of obstructed airway treatment.
Airway Orthodontics in Westminster, Colorado
Ready to find out how airway treatment and palatal expansion can help you breathe easier and smile more confidently? Book a complimentary consultation at Cronin & Czarnik Orthodontics today! Our practice serves patients of all ages in Westminster, Arvada, Denver and the surrounding areas using state-of-the-art technology and evidence-based techniques.
Dr. Czarnik and I are big on unique, thoughtful gifts. And while homemade is great, if you don’t have the time or inclination, you can spread holiday cheer just as easily with something special from a local maker. Thankfully, we live in a state full of creative people and small businesses.
Not sure where to start? I put together this Colorado gift guide to help with your holiday shopping:
We’re starting off our round-up of local Colorado gifts with L’il Hotties Salsa. Made in small batches here in Denver, the street salsa is crafted with high quality, authentic ingredients from a family recipe dating back generations. Swing by one of these retailers to pick up a few jars.
Send someone love with a Colorado gift basket or box filled with locally made, artisan goodies from Colorado Crafted. The Taste of Colorado Tote includes a keepsake mug and treats from all over the state. Or, for a holiday-themed gift, the Winter Warmer Box is as festive as it is delicious.
Handmade in a little studio in Evergreen, CO, Old Pine candles have natural scents and burn for up to 50 hours. Bonus: they come in pretty, eco-friendly packaging. Shop the holiday collection for gift-worthy seasonal scents and sets.
This really cool Denver gift shop showcases over 200 Colorado-based artists, designers and creatives. You’ll find all sorts of Colorado-themed home goods and souvenirs, as well as artwork, which always makes for a memorable gift.
Fettle & Fire sells gorgeous, colorful ceramic wind chimes that are made in the owner’s Longmont pottery studio. The whimsical pieces are crafted from stoneware clay that has been tinted with pigments before firing. The best part? Every chime is unique!
Spinster Sisters is another source of artisan gifts from Colorado. Headquartered in Golden, the company makes consciously crafted bath, body, hair and skincare products at their 100% wind- and solar-powered microsoapery. You’ll find gift sets for everyone on your list.
Show off that state pride and make someone’s holiday with a locally designed and dyed tee from Coloradical. The independently owned brand has styles for men, women and kids.
A custom hat from Royal Stag is a gift that will last a lifetime. The family owned, small business creates high quality, handcrafted hats. From pork pie to derby hats, each piece is tailored to the recipient’s style.
Never Summer has been designing and building high-performance snowboards in Denver since 1991. For a big-ticket item, a snowboard would certainly be the ultimate gift from Colorado, but for most people on your list, Never Summer also has clothes, hats, eyewear and stickers any snowboarder would be into.
Smeeny Beanie Knits is a woman-owned, sustainable small business in Steamboat Springs that makes handmade knit hats for outdoor adventures. Not only is a portion of every sale donated to environmental causes, the hats are also really, really cute!
Curate Mercantile is a Denver area gift shop and boutique featuring items from over 100 local vendors. Stop by the store in Centennial to browse the selection. Or, opt for a popular Curate Gift Box and let them do the shopping for you. You pick your price point, pass on some details about your recipient and Curate fills the box with handpicked, Colorado-made gift.
Zio Kids is a Colorado small biz that makes fanciful art and clothing for kids. Gift the littles in your life colorful t-shirts or give them art prints to add fun to their bedroom walls. Shop online or visit a local children’s boutique that carries the line.
Treat Yourself to a Healthy, Beautiful Smile
I hope everyone has a safe and happy holiday season!
If in between shopping for Colorado gifts, you also want to perfect your smile, schedule a complimentary consultation at Cronin & Czarnik Orthodontics in Westminster. At our independently owned practice, we offer high-tech, expert care in a bright, joyful atmosphere.
You probably have a good idea of what a perfect smile looks like. But you might be less familiar with what an ideal bite looks like. In fact, patients are sometimes surprised to learn they even have a bite problem at all. To help give you some clarity, I’ll be covering everything you need to know about your bite.
What Does “Bite” Mean in Orthodontics?
Your bite, or dental occlusion, refers to the relationship between the teeth in the upper jaw and the teeth in the lower jaw and how they fit together.
With a normal, or ideal, bite, the top and bottom teeth meet in a comfortable way that distributes bite forces properly and promotes harmony in the entire chewing system (i.e., teeth, gums, jaws, chewing muscles, jaw joint, etc.).
What Does an Ideal Bite Look Like?
While visiting an orthodontist is the only way to determine whether or not your bite is aligned, you can get a general idea by looking in the mirror.
If you bring your upper and lower teeth together, when viewed from the front:
The edges of the top teeth should be parallel to the bottom lip, following its curve
The top front teeth should cover about ⅓ of the length of the lower front teeth
The upper midline (the line between the top front teeth) should be in the center of the upper lip. The upper and lower midlines should also line up.
When viewed from the side:
All of the upper teeth should bite slightly outside of the lower teeth
The cusps, or points, of the top teeth should fit between two bottom teeth
The back of the top front teeth should have light contact with the front of the bottom teeth
If you were to open wide and look at your entire upper and lower arch:
The teeth in each arch should follow an even curve
Each tooth should gently touch its neighbor without overlapping or having spaces in between
The upper arch should be a tiny bit wider than the lower arch
Why is Having a Healthy Bite Important?
When you have crooked teeth or a discrepancy in jaw size that interferes with the bite, it can cause a number of complications.
Makes teeth easier to clean, reducing your risk of tooth decay and gum disease
Distributes chewing forces correctly, helping you avoid breakage and uneven enamel wear
Allows you to bite into foods and chew properly
Makes teeth less susceptible to injury (protruding teeth are in harm’s way)
Encourages facial symmetry and improves your appearance
Prevents undue stress on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and chewing muscles, alleviating TMJ pain, facial pain and headaches
May help with teeth grinding and clenching (bruxism)
Can promote a healthy airway and proper breathing
Lets you speak clearly
Keeps the jawbone healthy and strong
What is Malocclusion?
Now that you know what an ideal bite looks like, let’s talk about the opposite: malocclusion. Malocclusion translates literally to “bad bite.” When you have malocclusion, whether due to the teeth, the jaw or both, the upper and lower arches don’t come together properly.
While there are classes and divisions of malocclusion, for the purpose of this blog post, I’ll just give you the basics. The most common types of malocclusion include:
Crowding – Crowding is when the jaw is too small to accommodate all of the teeth. As the teeth try to squeeze in, they often overlap, twist or get blocked out of line. This makes keeping up with proper oral hygiene difficult. It can also cause uneven wear on the teeth.
Spacing – Spacing is when there are gaps between two or more teeth. Gaps tend to trap food debris and plaque, compromise gum health and can cause bone loss.
Excessive Overbite (Deep Bite) – As you saw with an ideal bite, a little bit of an overbite is a good thing. However, when the top front teeth cover too much of the bottom teeth, you’re said to have an excessive overbite, or deep bite. In extreme cases, the bottom teeth can bite into the roof of the mouth causing trauma and wear to both the teeth and gums.
Underbite – When a patient has an underbite, their lower jaw and teeth are positioned in front of the upper jaw and teeth. The lower jaw can trap the upper jaw, preventing upper jaw growth. Since it’s usually a skeletal issue, early intervention can be the key to addressing an underbite without having to resort to corrective jaw surgery.
Overjet – People often use overjet and overbite interchangeably but they’re actually two different conditions. Overjet is a measure of horizontal distance between the top and bottom front teeth, while overbite measures the vertical distance. When a patient has overjet teeth, the front teeth protrude, or stick out, too far in front of the bottom teeth.
Crossbite – A crossbite is when one or more bottom teeth sit in front of the top teeth. If the teeth in the back of the mouth are involved, it’s called a posterior crossbite, or back crossbite. When the teeth towards the front of the mouth are in crossbite, it’s called an anterior crossbite, or front crossbite. Similar to an underbite, the lower jaw can sometimes trap the upper jaw and lead to abnormal or asymmetric jaw growth.
Open Bite – If you have an open bite, your top front teeth don’t overlap your bottom teeth at all. You may even have a visible opening between the upper and lower teeth when the back teeth are touching. This makes it hard to bite and chew.
How are Bite Problems Diagnosed?
As board-certified orthodontists, Dr. Cronin and I have extensive training in diagnosing even subtle bite issues. To do this, we take diagnostic records, such as x-rays and photographs, and perform an exam.
Some of the things we look for include:
How your upper jaw and lower jaw are balanced to one another and your skull
How your teeth are positioned in relation to your lips and facial features
Whether you have missing or extra teeth
Whether or not the midlines are centered
How much of the lower front teeth are visible when the jaws are closed
The width of the upper arch in comparison with the lower arch
How the cusps of the back top teeth fit in between the lower teeth
Whether the top front teeth come into contact with the bottom front teeth
Whether the teeth in each arch are aligned and touching one another without overlapping or having spaces in between them
Whether your teeth are too small or perfectly sized
How is a Bad Bite Treated?
If you don’t have an ideal bite, the good news is, it can be fixed! While it will depend on your unique smile and the severity of your case, treatment options could include:
Phase 1 Orthodontic Treatment – The American Association of Orthodontists recommends kids have their first orthodontist visit no later than age 7. At this age, most kids have their first permanent molars and the back of the bite is established.
The majority of kids won’t need intervention this young, but there are some skeletal problems that respond best to treatment between the ages of 7 and 10, before peak growth is complete, such as an underbite, some posterior crossbites or an emerging, severe overbite.
Early interceptive treatment, or phase 1 treatment, allows Dr. Cronin and I to use an orthodontic appliance, like a rapid palatal expander, to guide jaw growth and make room for the permanent teeth to erupt properly. Then, after a resting period, kids will usually start phase 2 treatment with braces or Invisalign Teen once all of their permanent teeth are in.
This approach can make the second phase of treatment in the teenage years much easier and more affordable. It can also help kids avoid the need for corrective jaw surgery or extractions later in life.
Braces – Braces are effective for treating a range of bite problems in patients of all ages. The system of brackets and wires exerts steady, gentle pressure that shifts the teeth into place.
That said, braces shift the teeth in each arch independently of one another. To create an ideal bite, a connective force is often needed to bring the upper and lower arches into alignment. For this, auxiliaries like rubber bands can be used in conjunction with your braces.
Invisalign – Invisalign used to only be reserved for mild cases like small gaps between the teeth or a little bit of crowding. However, these days, under the care of an experienced orthodontist, we can use Invisalign aligners to fix nearly every problem braces can.
At Cronin & Czarnik Orthodontics, we’re a leading North Denver Invisalign provider. I also completed The Aligner Fellowship, a program open to top Invisalign providers, where I gained expertise in complex aligner techniques.
All of this means we have the proficiency and case experience to use Invisalign to fix most bite issues. We may pair your aligners with Invisalign attachments and/or rubber bands to get that necessary connective force to bring your bite into alignment while the aligners straighten your teeth.
Surgical Orthodontics – Advances in orthodontics allow us to treat many adult patients without jaw surgery. Occasionally, however, such as in the case of a severe underbite, corrective jaw surgery combined with orthodontic treatment will achieve the best results in adult patients who are done growing. In these rare cases, we work closely with the oral surgeon to coordinate care and achieve the perfect balance of function and aesthetics.
Craniofacial Orthodontics- WORK ON THE CLEFT TEAM AND TREAT CLEFT PTS
Let an Orthodontist in Westminster, CO Evaluate Your Bite
Want to know if you have an ideal bite? Schedule a complimentary consultation at Cronin & Czarnik Orthodontics in Westminster today! During this initial visit, Dr. Cronin or I will look at your diagnostic records and complete a comprehensive exam.
If we do diagnose you with malocclusion, we’ll be able to provide personalized treatment recommendations to help you achieve straight teeth and an aligned bite.
The distinction between an orthodontist vs. a dentist can be kind of confusing. After all, both are dental professionals who work with teeth. And, if you’ve been looking into orthodontics, you might have even seen general dentists advertising Invisalign® treatment.
Does it really matter which doctor you see? The answer is, yes! When comparing an orthodontist to a general dentist, there are major differences in training, as well as in the focus of their practice. I’ll be covering these differences and giving you a better idea of which professional to see to meet your smile needs.
What is a General Dentist?
A general dentist diagnoses, prevents and treats a range of oral health concerns. They are your primary dental care provider and serve as the point person for your overall oral health needs, often referring you to a specialist, such as a periodontist, orthodontist or endodontist, for more complex issues.
This is similar to the medical world where you go to your general practitioner for routine screenings and certain types of care, but are referred to other medical professionals like an orthopedist, neurologist or endocrinologist for speciality care
What is an Orthodontist?
Orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics is one of 12 dental specialties recognized by the National Commission on Recognition of Dental Specialties and Certifying Boards. The commission says, “Orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics is the dental specialty that includes the diagnosis, prevention, interception, and correction of malocclusion, as well as neuromuscular and skeletal abnormalities of the developing or mature orofacial structures.”
What does that mean? An orthodontist is a specialist in diagnosing, preventing and treating malocclusion, or a “bad” bite caused by irregularities of the teeth and jaw. We are also well versed in the entire chewing system, which includes the teeth, jaw, nerves, temporomandibular joints (TMJ) and muscles, as well as in orofacial (relating to the mouth and face) development.
As an Arvada, CO orthodontist, like most orthodontists, I generally refer to myself as an orthodontist, but dentofacial orthopedics is also part of the specialty. Dentofacial orthopedics means using appliances to guide jaw growth in growing patients. Because we’re specialists, Dr. Scott Czarnik and I focus on only orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics at our practice.
Orthodontist vs. Dentist: Educational Requirements
As we noted, orthodontists focus only on orthodontics, while general dentists focus on your overall oral health. The other big difference is in our education, or training. Orthodontists are dentists and we go to dental school, but we complete two to three additional years of speciality training to become a certified specialist in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics.
How long does it take to become an orthodontist? 10 to 11 years after high school. Yup, it’s a whole lot of schooling, but it’s during our speciality training in an orthodontic residency program that we learn the intricacies of aligning the teeth and jaw.
Educational Requirements to Become a General Dentist:
High school diploma
Bachelor’s degree from a college or university
Doctorate degree in dental medicine or dental surgery (DMD or DSD) from an accredited dental school
Educational Requirements to Become an Orthodontist:
High school diploma
Bachelor’s degree from a college or university
Doctorate degree in dental medicine or dental surgery (DMD or DSD) from an accredited dental school
Two to three years of speciality training in an orthodontic residency program, resulting in a certificate in orthodontics and/or master’s degree
Orthodontic residency programs are super competitive, averaging one spot for every 15 applicants. After graduating from dental school at the University of Illinois-Chicago, I was chosen to attend orthodontic residency at University of North Carolina, while Dr. Czarnik was selected for the residency program at University of Minnesota.
During residency, we both worked full days treating actual patients while being closely supervised. We also had to complete coursework and fulfill lab requirements, as well as study for exams. Residency is intense, but incredibly rewarding! Upon completing our residencies, Dr. Czarnik and I received our certificate in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics, plus our Master of Science degrees.
What Does a Dentist Do?
A general dentist usually offers:
Dental exams
Dental cleanings
Diagnostics and x-rays
Oral cancer screenings
Preventative treatment, such as fluoride varnish and dental sealants
Education (i.e., diet counseling, homecare, etc.)
Treatment for cavities, infection, mild gum disease and other oral diseases
Restorative care, including dental fillings, crowns and bridges
Cosmetic treatment, such as dental veneers and teeth whitening
Some general dentists are allowed to provide certain specialty services like Invisalign treatment. However, the training they receive to perform these treatments is much less in depth than specialty training.
What Does an Orthodontist Do?
So, what does an orthodontist do? At Cronin & Czarnik Orthodontics in North Denver, some of the main services we offer include:
Growth and development check-ups for children with a mix of baby teeth and permanent teeth (the American Association of Orthodontists recommends kids have their first orthodontic evaluation no later than age 7)
Diagnostics, including digital x-rays, iCAT 3D imaging and iTero digital scanning
Phase 1 orthodontic treatment, also known as early interceptive orthodontic treatment, that focuses on guiding jaw growth with appliances (dentofacial orthopedics) and/or encouraging the permanent teeth to erupt into their correct places
Braces treatment with metal braces, self-ligating braces and clear braces for children, teenagers and adults
Invisalign and Invisalign Teen treatment for teens and adults
Surgical orthodontics (combining orthodontic treatment with corrective jaw surgery to treat severe skeletal misalignment in mature patients)
Aside from using appliances like braces and Invisalign to straighten the teeth and align the bite, an orthodontist is also an excellent resource for problems, such as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction and oral habits, including prolonged thumb sucking and tongue thrust.
What is a Board-Certified Orthodontist?
Being the go-getters we are, both Dr. Czarnik and I are certified by the American Board of Orthodontics. To achieve this distinction, after finishing our residencies, we voluntarily completed hundreds of extra hours of preparation and education, written exams and clinical exams to show that we’re able to provide the highest level of patient care. We have to renew our certification every 10 years, which highlights our commitment to continuing education.
Why Should You Visit an Orthodontist to Straighten Your Teeth?
First, I want to start by saying that I love dentists! In fact, dentists refer a lot of patients to our practice. Your general dentist plays an integral role in keeping your mouth healthy and free of disease and you’ll continue to see them throughout your orthodontic treatment.
But, the truth is, if you want to straighten your teeth, it’s important to visit a certified specialist in orthodontics for care (bonus points if they’re a board-certified orthodontist). Though some general dentists have done Invisalign training, they didn’t complete a residency program. A few weekend courses on Invisalign is a lot different than the 5,000+ hours spent in an orthodontic residency learning the biomechanics of the bite and how to safely and effectively straighten the teeth in a way that promotes optimal oral health.
Another point to keep in mind is that orthodontic treatment can permanently change your smile and facial structure. A specialist can ensure these changes are positive ones. Dr. Czarnik and I rely on our training to design smiles that complement each patient’s lips, profile and facial features. This requires the ability to use orthodontic technology and advanced techniques, which is why we complete 40 additional hours of lectures and training on specific techniques and new technology every year.
Orthodontics really is an art and a science and goes beyond simply moving your teeth. Sometimes, inexperienced providers fix one or two crooked teeth but neglect the big picture like the bite and other key factors in healthy occlusion. An orthodontist is an expert in considering the relationship between your upper and lower teeth (bite), creating harmony in your entire chewing system, and striking the perfect balance of aesthetics and function.
The Bottom Line:
General dentists focus on patients’ overall oral health. Orthodontists are specialists who focus solely on orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics.
Both dentists and orthodontists go to dental school. While general dentists can start practicing immediately after earning their doctorate degree, orthodontists complete two to three more years of speciality training in an orthodontic residency program. There, they receive in-depth education and experience in diagnosing, preventing and treating irregularities of the teeth and jaw in patients of all ages.
For preventative dental care, concerns like tooth decay or referrals to dental specialists, visit your general dentist. If you’re considering straightening your teeth, visit an orthodontist. Our training makes us uniquely positioned to use appliances to help you achieve a beautiful, functional smile.
Schedule a Free Consultation With a Westminster, CO Orthodontist
Now that you know why a certified specialist in orthodontics is your best option for aligning your teeth and bite, are you wondering, “How do I find an orthodontist near me?” If you’re in the North Denver area, we have you covered here at Cronin & Czarnik Orthodontics in Westminster, CO.
Schedule a complimentary consultation at our practice today. As board-certified orthodontists, Dr. Czarnik and I have the training and experience to diagnose your orthodontic concerns and create a personalized treatment plan to help you achieve your best smile. And, because we stay up-to-date on the latest technology, treatment will be convenient, efficient and comfortable.
A lot of people are motivated to get orthodontic treatment because they want a stunning smile. At Cronin & Czarnik Orthodontics, we’re all for that! Dr. Scott Czarnik and I want our Westminster Invisalign® and braces patients to look and feel their absolute best.
That said, if you’re thinking about treatment for yourself or your child, you might be questioning if it’s really worth it. Aside from looking nice, do straight teeth matter? The answer is, yes! The benefits of straight teeth and a healthy bite aren’t just cosmetic.
Orthodontic treatment:
Reduces your risk of tooth decay and gum disease
One of the most significant benefits of straight teeth is that they’re easier to clean. When your teeth are crowded or crooked, it can be difficult to effectively brush and floss. On the opposite end of the spectrum, when there are large gaps between the teeth, food and plaque tend to get trapped in the spaces. In either case, the end result is an increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
Keeping the teeth clean and plaque-free is crucial for good oral health. The bacteria in plaque, the sticky film that clings to your teeth, feed on the sugars and starches you eat and drink and, when they do, they release acids. The acids leach minerals from the enamel and, over time, if it happens often enough, tooth decay occurs. As tooth decay progresses, a hole, or a cavity, can form in the tooth. Untreated cavities may result in pain, infection and problems with chewing.
When plaque accumulates near the gums, it irritates and inflames these soft tissues. The bacteria and toxins can cause an infection called periodontal disease, or gum disease. In its earliest stages, gum disease is known as gingivitis. Gingivitis can be reversed with professional dental treatment and a dedicated homecare routine.
If it’s not treated, gingivitis will advance into periodontitis, the more severe type of gum disease. Periodontitis can spread to the jawbone, causing jawbone loss. As the gums, bones and ligaments that hold the teeth in place deteriorate, the teeth loosen and, in the worst cases, fall out.
When we straighten your teeth with braces or aligners, Dr. Czarnik and I create optimal spacing. This allows you to brush and floss with ease and remove more plaque to prevent decay and gum disease.
Helps you speak more clearly
When producing certain speech sounds, your tongue needs room to move freely or, sometimes, it has to touch against the teeth. For other sounds, the teeth are responsible for controlling airflow. When the teeth aren’t in the correct place or the positioning of the jaw hinders the tongue, it can cause speech issues, including a lisp, whistling noise, difficulty articulating consonants and slurred speech.
While orthodontic treatment can’t fix all speech disorders, it can have a big impact on those related to the teeth or jaw. In these cases, getting an aligned bite and straight teeth with braces or Invisalign will let you speak more clearly.
Enables you to chew properly
Misaligned teeth or a bad bite (malocclusion) can make it hard or, sometimes even painful, to bite and chew properly. You might find yourself avoiding different foods, leading to nutritional deficiencies. If food isn’t properly broken down in your mouth by your teeth, it also moves more slowly through the digestive system, potentially causing bloating and other issues.
At Cronin & Czarnik Orthodontics, we focus on appearance and function, meaning your smile will work as good as it looks. We don’t just straighten your teeth, we also encourage the upper and lower arches to come together correctly, and we ensure the entire chewing system (i.e. teeth, jaws, temporomandibular joints (TMJ), chewing muscles, etc.) is in harmony. This will help you to comfortably eat a wide variety of foods and chew them fully for better digestion.
Prevents uneven or excessive wear of the enamel
When your teeth don’t come together correctly, the teeth that do meet bear the brunt of your chewing forces, causing them to wear down prematurely. These teeth can then look short or misshapen.
Having a misaligned bite also makes you more likely to subconsciously grind your teeth. Teeth grinding, technically called bruxism, is another culprit behind excessive wear of the enamel and tooth damage.
Moves teeth out of harm’s way
Protruding front teeth, or overjet teeth, are prone to injury and damage. If you get hit in the mouth, the teeth that are sticking out are generally most at risk for getting chipped, cracked or knocked out. Shifting the teeth back with braces or Invisalign will go a long way in preventing dental injuries.
Opens the airway in some cases
A problem with facial development in childhood can restrict the airway, causing little ones to breathe through their mouth instead of their nose. Mouth breathing in kids can, in turn, cause even more problems with the development of the facial structures, leading to issues, such as moderate to severe malocclusion, snoring and sleep apnea.
This highlights the importance of sticking with the American Association of Orthodontists’ recommendation to schedule a child’s first orthodontist visit no later than age 7. At this point, we can identify developmental abnormalities while a child is still growing and use appliances during phase 1 orthodontic treatment to guide their jaw and facial growth. This will open the airway and create a healthy bite.
Improves your appearance
Dr. Czarnik and I use digital treatment planning, which creates a virtual rendering of your mouth. This lets us move each individual tooth into its ideal place in a way that complements your lips, gums, cheeks and other teeth. You’ll get a beautiful smile that’s unique to you.
Depending on your orthodontic issue, treatment may improve facial symmetry. And, while it might not matter to a teenager, adults often love the fact that braces and Invisalign treatment can make you look younger. Straight teeth give the impression of good health and vitality, and when we shift the teeth into place and widen the smile, the skin around the mouth gets a little bit of a lift.
Makes a great first impression
In a perfect world, we would all be judged by what’s on the inside. Unfortunately, we’re not quite there yet. The truth is, your smile is a prominent feature and one of the first things people notice.
Several studies, including one published in the American Journal of Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics, found that people with ideal smiles were thought to be more intelligent and more likely to be hired for a job. Another survey by Kelton Global had similar findings. Respondents perceived people with straight teeth as more successful, smarter and more trustworthy than those with crooked teeth.
Even beyond the workplace, hiding your smile can make you seem unhappy or unfriendly even though you’re not. Straightening your teeth and smiling freely helps you show your true emotions and gives you a leg-up with first impressions.
Boosts self-esteem and confidence
Loving your smile will enhance your self-esteem and confidence. Feeling confident about yourself carries over into everything you do, including school, your career and relationships.
Confidence is a huge bonus for patients of all ages. However, during the teen years, it can be particularly beneficial and make kids more likely to try new things and set goals and less likely to give into peer pressure.
Alleviates headaches, TMJ pain and other bite-related discomforts
As I mentioned previously, one goal of orthodontic treatment is to create harmony in the chewing system. When the TMJ is in its proper position and bite forces are evenly distributed, it reduces undue pressure on the joint and chewing muscles. This can help to alleviate tooth and jaw pain, TMJ pain and dysfunction, as well as the associated headaches, earaches and neck aches.
Keeps your jaw strong
Your jawbone is stimulated by your tooth roots every time you bite down or chew. When there are large gaps, missing teeth or teeth that aren’t where they’re supposed to be, areas of the jawbone might not be receiving this stimulation. This signals to the body that part of the jaw isn’t being used and doesn’t require nutrients. Over time, the body resorbs the bone, resulting in jawbone loss.
Properly aligned teeth, on the other hand, will keep your jawbone strong and help to ward off bone loss, especially when combined with excellent oral hygiene.
Promotes better oral and overall health
A lot of the benefits of straight teeth listed above boil down to better oral health. There is a mouth-body connection and when your mouth is healthy, it’s a boon for your body too. For example, when your teeth are functioning as they should, you can eat a variety of healthy foods and get all of the necessary vitamins and minerals.
Reducing the risk of gum disease is also a good thing for your overall health. Gum disease has been tied to a number of different health conditions, including heart disease, Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes and more. Though a definitive causal relationship hasn’t been established, the link is there.
How to Straighten Teeth
Now that you know all about the benefits of orthodontic treatment, let’s talk about how to straighten teeth. Well, the first step is visiting a certified specialist in orthodontics like Dr. Czarnik and I. As board-certified orthodontists, we have the expertise and knowledge to create a smile that complements your face and optimizes your oral health and function.
At our practice, we offer:
Metal Braces –
Getting straight teeth with braces isn’t what it used to be! Today’s braces are smaller, more comfortable and much more streamlined. Our team offers two different types of metal brackets from American Orthodontics: the Mini Twin Bracket™ and the Empower® 2 Self-Ligating Bracket.
The Mini Twin bracket is one of the smallest brackets on the market and kids love them because they can customize their braces with colorful elastics. Empower self-ligating brackets don’t use elastics at all. Instead, clips hold the wires in place, letting the teeth move more freely into position with less force and friction.
Clear Braces –
We use Radiance Plus® Brackets, also from American Orthodontics, for our Westminster clear braces. The ceramic brackets are incredibly clear, stain-resistant and durable. Ceramic braces blend in with your smile, making them much less noticeable than metal braces. Clear braces are a popular option for adult and teen patients.
Invisalign and Invisalign Teen –
If you’d rather straighten your teeth without braces, our practice is a leading provider of Invisalign in Westminster, CO. Dr. Czarnik and I plan your treatment on a computerized, 3D model of your mouth. Then, the Invisalign lab prints your aligners based on our specifications. As you make your way through the series, your new smile will gradually take shape. Because Invisalign and Invisalign Teen aligners are crafted from smooth, clear, BPA-free plastic, most people won’t notice you’re wearing them.
Connect With a Westminster Orthodontist
Are you ready to enjoy all of the benefits of straight teeth and a healthy bite? Schedule a free consultation at Cronin & Czarnik Orthodontics. We’ll perform an exam, take diagnostic records and walk you through our personalized treatment recommendations to bring out the best in your smile. Our team serves patients in the greater North Denver area, including Westminster, Thornton, Arvada and Northglenn, as well as in Grand County, including Winter Park, Fraser and Granby, CO.
Brace-ism: believe it or not, it’s a concept. The Urban Dictionary defines brace-ism as “acting mean to people who have braces on their teeth.” Phrases like metal mouth, brace face, and train tracks are common jokes uttered by gap-toothed fools who like to make fun of people with braces.
While ignoring these comments and taking the high road is the best thing to do, there’s nothing wrong with having a few clever retorts and quick-witted comebacks up your sleeve.
The next time someone calls you train tracks, break into an obnoxious train imitation, with lots of toot-toot and chuga-chuga-chuga. Finish off your crazy locomotive impersonation with some sort of deafening train horn. That’ll keep the bullies at bay.
“It’s better to be a brace face than a space case.”
Counter with a ridiculously childish joke that makes the schoolyard tormentor feel even smaller than he already is. “Oh. Yeah. Why did the deer need braces? Because he had buck teeth. Hahaha.” Top it off with an exaggerated eye roll.
“Yeah, my brother tells that joke. He’s six. You guys should hang out.” That’ll stop the haters dead in their tracks. Or would that be train tracks?
Here’s one from the sarcasm grab bag. “Well, I’m just glad there’s a way to fix what’s wrong with my face.”
“I can’t wait to discuss this formative moment at our ten-year class reunion, when my teeth are razor-straight and you’re wearing adult braces.”
Orthognathic surgery is surgery to correct a wide variety of abnormalities of our patients’ jaw and teeth. The surgery is often done in conjunction with orthodontic treatment. While the patient’s appearance may be significantly improved as a result, the primary purpose of the surgery is to correct functional problems including but not limited to:
Unbalanced facial appearance
Protruding jaw
Open bite (upper and lower teeth don’t overlap properly
Excessive wearing down of the teeth
Difficulty with chewing or biting
Chronic mouth breathing
Sleeping problems such as sleep apnea
TMJ pain (jaw joint pain)
Restoring facial injuries
Knowing when to start the orthodontic treatment in preparation for orthognathic surgery can also be tricky if our team at Cronin & Czarnik Orthodontics is treating a teenager. It is important to know when to get started. If orthodontic treatment is initiated too soon and the teenager is still growing, the patient will either need to hold in braces until his or her growth is complete and they are ready for surgery or the braces will have to be removed and then placed again when growth is complete. Neither of these options is attractive since it requires longer time in treatment, which is something all our patients want to avoid. Our team at Cronin & Czarnik Orthodontics strives to get all patients finished with treatment as quickly as possible because it is healthier for the teeth and gums and gives them a beautiful smile to enjoy for a lifetime.
If you are considering orthognathic surgery or you have been told that you need jaw surgery, give us a call to schedule your initial consultation today. Our team at Cronin & Czarnik Orthodontics will explain our treatment plan in a way you will understand and we will keep you informed every step of the way.
Braces aren’t just for kids. Many grownups are taking advantage of orthodontic treatment and having their teeth straightened at a later age.
Sometimes, patients include adults who already had braces in the past, but their teeth shifted over time once they stopped wearing their retainers. In other cases, adults who have never had braces are tired of having crooked teeth and ready to invest in a beautiful smile.
Whatever the case may be, if you’re looking to straighten your teeth with braces, Dr. Cronin and Dr. Czarnik would love to help you with this process. Having a dazzling smile can increase your confidence in all areas of your life!
Depending on what you’re willing to spend and how quickly you would like to complete the process, you have various options for getting braces. We all know what traditional metal braces look like. This is a less-expensive route for individuals who have severely crooked or displaced teeth. However, many adults avoid option because the braces are noticeable or distracting in a professional atmosphere.
For people concerned about aesthetics, clear ceramic braces may be a preferable option. This type can still fix extremely crooked teeth or jaw alignment issues. It may be slightly more expensive than traditional metal braces. Patients who choose this treatment route need to be careful not to stain the clear adhesives by drinking too much coffee, red wine, soda, or other beverages that can discolor teeth.
Another great option for adults who don’t want to have visible braces is a clear aligner treatment known as Invisalign®. This popular option differs from traditional braces by featuring a series of clear aligners that are each custom-made for your teeth.
The entire process can take anywhere from three to 18 months to straighten your teeth completely. This may not be the best choice for patients who have an overcrowded mouth or extreme bite issues. Invisalign is often the most expensive option, but it’s great if you’re concerned about your appearance while your teeth are being straightened.
If you’ve been thinking about straightening your teeth with the help of braces, don’t hesitate to contact our Westminster, and Winter Park office to set up a consultation. From there, Dr. Cronin or Dr. Czarnik can figure out the best course of treatment, depending on your budget and overall needs.
Adult braces can be a great way to boost your confidence and finally give you the smile you’ve always wanted.
