Jaw Alignment Treatment by Total Orthodontics Experts
Understanding Jaw Alignment: More Than Just Cosmetics
Jaw alignment issues, often referred to as malocclusions, are more than just a cosmetic concern. They can lead to significant functional problems, including difficulty in chewing, speaking, and even breathing. When your upper and lower jaws don’t align properly, it creates a ripple effect throughout your entire oral health system.
Many people dismiss jaw misalignment as simply an aesthetic issue, but the reality is far more complex. Correcting jaw alignment offers numerous functional benefits: Easier chewing and speaking are immediate improvements. Proper alignment makes these daily activities much more comfortable and can dramatically improve your overall well-being.
Common Types of Jaw Alignment Issues We Treat
Jaw alignment issues can manifest in various forms, such as overbites, underbites, crossbites, and open bites. Each type of malocclusion presents unique challenges:
Overbites: When your upper teeth significantly overlap your lower teeth, creating functional and aesthetic concerns.
Underbites: When your lower teeth extend beyond your upper teeth, often affecting speech and chewing ability.
Crossbites: When some upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth when biting down, leading to uneven wear and potential jaw pain.
Open Bites: When there’s a gap between your upper and lower teeth even when your mouth is closed, making it difficult to bite into food properly.
Treatment Options at Total Orthodontics
Traditional and Ceramic Braces
Braces are the most common orthodontic treatment for jaw alignment issues. They apply continuous pressure over time to move teeth into the desired position. This process can also influence the jaw’s alignment, especially in growing children and teenagers whose bones are still developing.
At Total Orthodontics, Dr. Brooks Barefoot, Dr. Kevin Theroux, and Dr. Elizabeth Donahue utilize both traditional metal braces and aesthetic ceramic options, ensuring your jaw alignment treatment fits your lifestyle and preferences.
Invisalign Clear Aligners
For patients seeking a more discreet option, Clear aligners, such as Invisalign, offer a less noticeable alternative to traditional braces. These removable trays are custom-made to gradually shift teeth into place. For mild to moderate jaw alignment issues, clear aligners can be highly effective.
The team at Total Orthodontics has extensive experience with Invisalign technology, and their iTero digital impression system ensures precise treatment planning for optimal results.
Functional Appliances
Functional appliances are devices designed to correct jaw alignment by modifying the growth of the jaw. These are particularly effective in younger patients whose jaws are still growing. Our doctors have successfully used these appliances to guide proper jaw development in countless young patients.
Advanced Surgical Options
For severe cases, In severe cases of jaw misalignment, orthodontic treatment alone may not suffice. Orthognathic surgery, also known as corrective jaw surgery, can reposition the jaws to improve function and appearance. This surgery is typically combined with orthodontic treatment before and after the procedure to ensure optimal results.
What to Expect During Your Treatment Journey
Your jaw alignment treatment at Total Orthodontics begins with a comprehensive consultation. Our orthodontists will conduct a thorough examination using state-of-the-art diagnostic tools to understand your specific needs.
The treatment process typically involves several phases:
- Initial Assessment: Comprehensive examination and treatment planning
- Active Treatment: Regular adjustments and monitoring
- Retention Phase: Maintaining your results with retainers
Throughout this journey, the Total Orthodontics team provides continuous support, ensuring your comfort and addressing any concerns.
The Technology Advantage
Total Orthodontics stays at the forefront of orthodontic technology, utilizing advanced tools like iTero digital impressions to create precise treatment plans. This technology allows our doctors to show you exactly how your treatment will progress, giving you confidence in your decision.
Making Treatment Accessible
Understanding that orthodontic care is an investment in your health and future, Total Orthodontics offers flexible financing options to make treatment accessible to families throughout the Colorado area. Their commitment to working with patients on payment plans ensures that financial concerns don’t prevent you from achieving the smile and function you deserve.
Patient Success Stories Speak Volumes
The reputation of Total Orthodontics speaks for itself through countless patient success stories. As one local pediatrician shared, the practice has served both families and pediatric patients with “honest and conservative treatment for decades,” with excellent feedback spanning over twenty years.
Beyond Treatment: Community Commitment
What makes Total Orthodontics truly special is their commitment to giving back. Through their TOgether Project and TO Gives program, Dr. Brooks Barefoot, Dr. Kevin Theroux, and Dr. Elizabeth Donahue provide free orthodontic treatment to children who would otherwise be unable to afford it. This community outreach demonstrates their genuine care for patient well-being beyond the office walls.
Your Next Steps to a Better Life
If you’re ready to transform your smile and improve your quality of life through professional jaw alignment treatment, don’t wait any longer. The experienced team at Total Orthodontics—led by Dr. Brooks Barefoot, Dr. Kevin Theroux, and Dr. Elizabeth Donahue—is ready to help you achieve the functional, beautiful smile you’ve always wanted.
Early intervention can make a world of difference. Whether you’re dealing with chronic jaw pain, difficulty eating, speech issues, or simply want to improve your smile’s appearance, the first step is scheduling a consultation.
