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Dr. Cameron Hulse

Jul 05

Can Orthodontists Treat TMJ And Jaw Pain? (We Answer)

By Orthodontics, Blog

Chronic jaw pain or discomfort can be distressing and significantly impact one’s daily life. One potential cause of this pain could be temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, a condition affecting the joint that connects the jawbone to the skull. TMJ can result from various factors such as teeth grinding, jaw clenching, misalignment, arthritis, or even trauma. Fortunately, many orthodontists are well-trained to recognize and treat TMJ symptoms, offering effective solutions like assessing jaw position, correcting misalignments, and providing custom appliances to alleviate pain.

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Jun 16

What Are The Benefits Of Orthodontic Treatment? (Full Breakdown)

By Orthodontics, Blog

Orthodontic treatment is an investment that pays off in the long run. Not only does treatment help you achieve a beautiful, healthy smile, but it also has numerous other long-term benefits. From improved dental health to enhanced self-confidence, orthodontic treatment can provide many lifelong benefits.

In this blog post, we’ll explore why orthodontic treatment is worth the investment and can help improve your overall quality of life.

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Dec 27

The Essential Guide To Adolescent Braces

By Braces, Blog

It’s never too late to benefit from orthodontic work, but the teenage years can be the ideal time to start orthodontic treatment. Adolescents have had enough time to build up good dental hygiene habits and are likely to experience faster results from their braces than older orthodontic patients will.

We’ll examine why this period of time provides such a great opportunity for your teen to improve their smile, what their treatment options are, and help you understand how you can begin to move forward with their treatment if it’s something you both want.

Why Adolescence is a Great Time for Braces

There are a few key reasons why the teenage years are an excellent time for orthodontic treatment. The first is that by this age, your child will hopefully have developed the good habits and self-discipline required to make the treatment work effectively. This means regular and effective brushing and flossing but also includes the self-discipline necessary to make certain orthodontic options like removable aligners work for them.

The second reason is that treatment works more quickly and, in some cases, can achieve greater results than it would if they were older. This is because the teeth, gums, and bones are able to move and adapt more easily while they are still young.

Earlier orthodontic treatment can also help to avoid further issues developing over the years. This can be a result of the teeth and mouth being easier to clean after treatment but also because orthodontic issues such as malocclusions can lead to or exacerbate other dental issues.

The Options

Just like adults, adolescents have several different types of braces available. Each of these types comes with its own advantages and disadvantages, meaning that some will be more suited to your teen’s needs than others. Discussing your options with an orthodontist will help you to understand them further, but the following is an overview of the most common types of braces and similar orthodontic apparatus.

Metal Braces

These are what most people will first imagine when they think of braces. They are generally the most affordable option and are strong enough to handle even difficult or complex orthodontic issues, but are also the most noticeable.

Ceramic Braces

Similar in design to standard metal braces, they use ceramic brackets that are colored to match the teeth rather than metal ones, reducing the visual impact that the braces have. They aren’t invisible by any means, but they do stand out a lot less.

Lingual Braces

These braces are fixed onto the back surface of the teeth, meaning that other people won’t be able to notice them. They do have some downsides, however, being more expensive as well as often working less efficiently for some cases and affecting speech in the short term.

Clear Plastic Aligners

Clear plastic aligners such as Invisalign have become a very popular alternative to braces amongst both adolescents and adults. Their clear plastic makes them incredibly discreet and they can be removed when needed such as when eating or brushing teeth.

Moving Forward With Treatment

With an experienced orthodontist supporting you, the process of getting and wearing braces is surprisingly simple. Your first step is to book an initial consultation, in which they’ll assess your teen’s orthodontic needs and provide advice about their treatment options. If you want to proceed with the treatment, braces will often be fitted during a future appointment.

Once their braces are in, your teen will need to ensure that they follow the orthodontist’s advice and make sure that they continue to practice good oral hygiene, keeping the braces and the rest of their mouth clean. They’ll also need to attend appointments throughout their treatment in order to adjust their braces and monitor their progress. The orthodontist will be able to provide full details of exactly what will be required once the course of treatment has been decided.

Taking The First Step

The skilled and professional team at Hulse Orthodontics, your trusted Carlsbad orthodontists, are here to support you and your teen on the journey to the perfect smile. Contact us to arrange an appointment and find out just what we can do for you.

Dec 21

Developing A Healthy Smile For Your Child

By Orthodontics, Blog

Taking care of your child’s teeth, and encouraging them to do so themselves, is crucial to developing life-long oral health. During their early years, a child goes through a significant amount of growth and development, and the same goes for their teeth. Whether it is looking after first teeth, or solving problems with their new adult teeth, there are many ways in which we can help children achieve a healthy and beautiful smile. Let’s take a closer look.

The Importance of Early Visits

We all know that regular dental checkups for your child are important, but what age is best to begin taking your child to the orthodontist? The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children visit an orthodontist no later than age 7. At this age, your child will typically have a mix of baby teeth and adult teeth, making it easier for your orthodontist to diagnose and correct tooth and jaw problems sooner and without surgery. However, early orthodontic evaluation doesn’t mean treatment has to start right away. In reality, most kids don’t begin active orthodontic treatment until they’re between the ages of 9 and 14 years old.

Establishing Oral Hygiene Routines

One of the most important ways to help your child develop a beautiful and healthy smile is to create an effective oral hygiene routine at home. As soon as teeth appear, they can be gently brushed using a soft silicone finger brush.

When children are able to handle a toothbrush, make brushing part of their daily routine. Many children can be reluctant to brush their teeth, so always make it a fun part of the day. Establishing dental hygiene habits early on will help make it part of their lifestyle as they grow older, helping to keep teeth and gums healthy.

Common Orthodontic Issues in Children

Orthodontic issues in children are typically caused by a mix of genetic and environmental factors. Symptoms that may indicate a need for an orthodontic consultation include:

  1. Early or Late Loss of Baby Teeth: Children typically start losing their baby teeth around age 6 and have all their permanent teeth by age 12 or 13. If baby teeth are lost too early, due to decay or injury, the remaining teeth can shift and prevent the permanent teeth from erupting properly. On the other hand, if baby teeth are lost too late, it can also hinder the proper eruption of permanent teeth.

  2. Difficulty in Chewing or Biting: This can be a sign of misaligned teeth, an improper bite, or jaw issues. It can lead to discomfort while eating, and over time, can cause wear on the teeth and strain on the jaw muscles.

  3. Mouth Breathing: Chronic mouth breathing in children can sometimes be a sign of an obstructed airway. It can also lead to a few different orthodontic issues like a long, narrow face and palate, gummy smiles, and improper growth and alignment of teeth.

  4. Shifting or Clicking Jaws: These symptoms could indicate a problem with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), the hinge connecting your jaw to your child’s skull. TMJ disorders can cause pain, difficulty chewing, and changes in the way the teeth fit together.

  5. Cheek Biting: Frequent accidental cheek biting could be due to a misalignment of the upper and lower jaws or teeth. This can cause discomfort and sores in the mouth of your child.

  6. Facial Imbalance: Facial imbalance can occur when the jaws grow at different rates. This can result in asymmetry, where one side of the face looks different from the other. Facial imbalance can also affect the alignment and function of the teeth.

Children’s Orthodontic Treatments

There are a variety of treatment options open to children who are dealing with the above orthodontic issues. 

Braces are made up of a series of brackets and wires that are fixed to the front of your child’s teeth. The wires provide a steady presser that gently shifts teeth to a more optimal and healthy position.

Clear Aligners (like Invisalign) work in a similar way, yet they are removable and can be taken out of the mouth for easy cleaning.

The best type of treatment will depend on the specific issue and, for misalignment, your preferences. Your orthodontist will be able to advise on the most beneficial action for your child’s particular situation.

More Advice on Children’s Teeth

It’s never too early to start taking care of your child’s teeth and help them develop a healthy and happy smile that will give them confidence as they grow. If you are looking for more advice or would like to know more about orthodontic treatments for children or teens, contact Hulse Orthodontics in Carlsbad today.

Nov 30

Is Invisalign for Kids?

By Invisalign, Blog

Invisalign’s clear plastic aligners have become incredibly well known, beginning to eclipse conventional braces as the go-to orthodontic treatment. They’re exceptionally popular with adults for their ability to deliver effective results whilst remaining unnoticed by other people.

With this success, it’s only natural to wonder whether Invisalign can be used as an alternative to other orthodontic treatments for kids and teenagers.

Why Invisalign Is Great For Kids

Not only will kids and teens appreciate the near-invisibility of Invisalign’s clear aligners just as much as adults do, but the fact that they can be easily removed when needed also provides some major advantages.

The fact that the aligners can be removed means that it’ll still be easy for your child to keep their teeth clean during their treatment, which is a common concern for those with braces. Likewise, it also means that there’s no need for your child to alter or restrict their diet to accommodate treatment (for the most part!). In many cases, Invisalign can also deliver faster and more predictable results than traditional braces.

Invisalign Options For Kids and Teens

In general, orthodontic treatment is fastest and most effective when performed earlier. Thankfully, Invisalign offers two solutions specifically geared towards younger orthodontic patients, Invisalign First and Invisalign Teen.

Invisalign First

Invisalign First is an example of what is known as Phase 1 treatment and has been specially designed for children aged six to ten. It can be an effective way to address malocclusions, otherwise known as bad bites, in children of this age, whilst also incorporating a unique dental arch expansion feature and helping to make room for their adult teeth to come in without issue.

There’s plenty for you and your child to appreciate about Invisalign First beyond just the results of the treatment. Invisalign First treatment usually requires fewer orthodontic appointments when compared to traditional braces, something which we’re sure both of you will be happy about!

Although the Invisalign First aligners are made from clear plastic, just like the other treatments in Invisalign’s range, younger children who are less concerned about the visual impact of the treatment might enjoy being able to customize their aligners using Invisalign Stickables, sticker accessories that can be used to add a touch of personality.

Invisalign Teen

The Invisalign Teen aligners are very similar to the typical adult Invisalign aligners and carry all of the same benefits. There are a few differences though which teens and their families may find very helpful.

The first difference is the inclusion of a small dot at the back of the aligners. This dot starts off blue but fades as the aligner is worn, serving as a compliance indicator. This makes it very easy for both parents and dental professionals to verify whether the teen has been wearing their aligners as much as they should have or if they’ve been removing them a bit too often. It also allows treatment providers to know with certainty whether slow changes are best addressed with a change in the treatment plan or simply a change in the patient’s behavior.

The second difference is that the Invisalign Teen treatment plan includes more aligners of each type. This reflects the fact that teens may not yet be as diligent and careful as adults, potentially leading to a greater number of lost or damaged aligners.

Exploring Your Options

Whether you’re concerned about your child’s teeth or they’ve come to you about them, there’s likely an Invisalign option that could help. However, it’s even more essential that younger patients are treated by an experienced orthodontist who knows how to deal with their age group most effectively.

At Hulse Orthodontics, we’ve been providing orthodontic treatments in Carlsbad for teens and kids since 2007. If you’re interested in finding out more about how we could work with your child and help to address their dental issues, contact us today and one of our team will be in touch.

Nov 22

Orthodontics for Children vs. Adults: Key Differences

By Orthodontics, Blog

Even though children and adults can face similar dental issues, there are some key differences that can affect the orthodontic treatment they receive and the results that they can expect. Both groups can expect to see optimal results provided they stick with an appropriate and well-designed treatment plan, but it can be good to understand these differences so that you (and your child) go into the treatment with the right expectations.

Family Involvement in Treatment

When a child is receiving orthodontic treatment, the orthodontist will involve their family, with their parents or guardians typically attending appointments with them and being able to make the decision as to whether to proceed with any treatment plans or procedures that are recommended.

When the person being treated is an adult, there’s typically no need for anyone else to attend appointments with them. In some cases, they may choose to seek advice or support from a friend or family member, but the orthodontist will speak to the patient directly.

How Long It Takes to See Results

Children can often see results from orthodontic treatments faster than adults will. This means that they’ll typically get more noticeable results in the same amount of time and will likely be able to finish the treatment in a shorter amount of time. 

Of course, this doesn’t mean that adults can’t achieve great results with the right treatment, or that children’s treatment plans will always be shorter than adults’. The length of time needed for orthodontic treatment to be effective is different for everyone and age is just one factor that can influence it.

Additional Dental Issues

It’s not uncommon for adults to develop some dental issues, even if they try to take care of their teeth. This can make the planning and execution of orthodontic treatment more complex as cooccurring conditions and the results of previous dental procedures such as extractions.

The end result of this is that, in many cases, there is sometimes more dental history for an orthodontist to consider when treating an adult than a child, and the treatment may require more collaboration with other dental professionals with different specializations.

Aesthetic Concerns

Although there’s no hard and fast rule when it comes to aesthetic preferences, there is an undeniable association between braces and children. This can lead some adults to worry that pursuing orthodontic treatment will leave them looking overly young, childlike, or unprofessional to others.

This is much less of a concern now, however, as the majority of both children and adults needing orthodontic treatment can take advantage of discreet solutions like Invisalign. Invisalign uses clear plastic aligners that are virtually unnoticeable, meaning that aesthetic concerns don’t need to prevent anyone from getting the treatment they need.

Understanding and Treatment Compliance

With younger orthodontic patients, it may be necessary for their parents to ensure that they maintain good oral hygiene throughout treatment and are consistently wearing any prescribed dental appliances as directed.

The Similarities

Despite their differences, orthodontic treatment for children and adults remains largely the same at its core. Both groups can expect great results, provided that they stick with an effective treatment plan for long enough, and it’s essential that both groups choose the right practice to support them on their orthodontic journey.

At Hulse Orthodontics in Carlsbad, we are proud to offer tailored orthodontic treatment for Teens & Kids and have experience treating a wide range of orthodontic issues. If you’re interested in finding out more about how we can help your child or teen smile, schedule a consultation with one of our orthodontists today.

Oct 31

The Benefits of Technology in Orthodontics

By Orthodontics, Blog

Orthodontics is an area of healthcare that relies on accuracy to get the best results for patients. Modern technology now allows orthodontists to get an accurate picture of patients’ dental issues and create treatment plans that are more effective. In this article, we’ll explore some popular orthodontic technology and discuss the benefits they bring to orthodontists and their patients alike. So, let’s take a closer look!

Digital X-rays 

Digital X-rays transfer an image straight to a computer, allowing orthodontists to access information much more quickly than with traditional X-rays. The images are often clearer than traditional X-rays, which means orthodontists get a better view of the structure of the teeth.

Because they can be viewed on a computer, orthodontists can look at an image from different angles. This means they can get a better understanding of a patient’s anatomy. Overall, this helps orthodontists to create better treatment plans for their patients.

3D Imaging and Printing

3D imaging produces a 3D view of the oral structures of the face. Having access to such in-depth information means orthodontists can look at patients’ teeth in more detail. This gives them more opportunity to create a precise treatment plan, especially for people with tooth alignment issues.

By using these advanced visuals, an orthodontist can predict the outcomes of treatments with greater accuracy, as well as help patients understand their issues and get the best outcomes.

Technology such as 3D printing is also proving beneficial in orthodontics. This allows orthodontists to print accurate 3D models from digital images, for example, the structure of a patient’s teeth. By doing so, they can then create clear aligners and other treatments with more precision.

Intraoral Scanners 

For many years, molds have traditionally been used to take impressions of a person’s teeth and gums. Now, the use of intraoral scanners has made the process much quicker.

Intraoral scanners are used to produce accurate digital impressions, which means orthodontists can produce better-fitting orthodontic options for their patients. Scanners can quickly capture the details without the need for impression materials, which can be messy to use. It is also more comfortable for patients who no longer need to hold molds in their mouths while impressions are being taken.

The Benefits of Technology for Orthodontic Processes

Using technology in orthodontics has many benefits, including enhancing treatment for both orthodontists and their patients.

The speed of getting accurate images and the reduced need for physical molds allow for shorter appointment times, efficient treatments, and predictable results. It also contributes to more effective orthodontic care.

In addition to technology, orthodontic software is also helping to improve how orthodontic professionals approach oral health. For example, the digitization of dental records means information can easily be shared between practitioners, improving collaboration. This comprehensive approach makes diagnosis and treatment more efficient, and it also improves the patient experience.

As new technology in orthodontics continues to advance, both orthodontists and their patients can enjoy a better journey to good oral health. For more advice on using technology as part of your orthodontic care, contact our expert orthodontic team in Carlsbad today.

Oct 24

3 Amazing Procedures That Straighten Teeth

By Orthodontics, Blog

Your smile plays an essential role in how you feel about yourself, and how you interact with people around you. Having a confident smile is something to be proud of, but sometimes common orthodontic issues such as misaligned teeth or gaps can make us feel self-conscious.

If you are looking to achieve a beautiful, confident smile, there are several orthodontic options available. So, let’s take a closer look at a few popular methods that will help you achieve a smile that lights up a room.

Traditional Metal Braces

A common way to straighten teeth, metal braces are a popular orthodontic treatment that apply gentle pressure to teeth. They are made up of brackets that are fixed to the surface of teeth, which are connected using thin wires and bands. Your orthodontist will be able to set the right pressure by tightening the wires as required, and over time teeth will shift to the desired position.

Metal braces are robust, and can withstand a variety of foods without breaking. However, cleaning them can sometimes be a challenge, depending on what you’re eating.

While traditional braces are very effective, some people don’t love the visual aesthetics of them. If that sounds like you, you may prefer a more discreet option.

Clear Ceramic Braces 

Clear ceramic braces offer all the benefits of metal braces, yet are less visually noticeable. The brackets of this type of treatment are made of clear or tooth-colored ceramic, so they blend in well against the color of your teeth.

One of the disadvantages of ceramic braces is that they may break more easily than metal braces, which may be a concern when eating some types of food. However, they are still a durable and effective option for straightening teeth.

As ceramic braces are less conspicuous, they offer a great alternative for those who are worried about the look of metal braces.

Invisalign 

Invisalign in Carlsbad offers a unique way to straighten teeth that is different from wearing braces. They are a custom-design series of clear aligners that are worn over the teeth that can be removed when required.

Just like traditional braces, Invisalign applies constant pressure that gradually moves the teeth into a better position. Every few weeks, your orthodontist will provide a new set of aligners as your teeth shift position.

The main benefit of Invisalign is that they are almost invisible when worn, making them a great choice for people who are concerned about the appearance of traditional braces. They are comfortable to wear and are also very easy to clean as they can be removed before eating.

Finding the Best Treatment Option

Traditional metal braces, ceramic braces, and Invisalign all work effectively to straighten your smile. The option you choose is down to your own preferences and lifestyle (as well as the severity of your orthodontic issues). The best thing to do when considering treatment is to book a consultation with your orthodontist, who will be able to guide you to the best option.

If you are looking for advice on what treatment is best for you, our team of orthodontic experts is ready to help. Contact us today to start your journey to a healthy and happy smile.

Sep 27

Looking at Common Orthodontic Issues

By Orthodontics, Blog

Crooked teeth, an overbite, an underbite, or crowded teeth can all make it harder to maintain proper oral health. What are some of the most common orthodontic issues? In this article, we look to answer that question! Keep reading to learn more.

Overbite

If your top front teeth significantly cover your lower front teeth when you smile or close your jaw, you may be dealing with a deep overbite or closed bite. There are numerous causes of a deep overbite, including genetics and thumb-sucking. An overbite can also happen over time as a result of teeth grinding or jaw clenching. In some cases, an underdeveloped lower jaw can also cause deep overbite issues.

Treatment for a deep overbite depends on age and a variety of other factors. When an overbite is caught early, some children can use palate expanders or growth modification devices to avoid additional orthodontic care later. Braces and tooth extraction can also help make room for adult teeth and improve the alignment of other teeth. Jaw surgery is sometimes required in the most severe cases.

Crowding

Crowding occurs when your jaw does not have the space to accommodate all of your teeth and overlapping, twisting, misalignment, and pain can occur. Crowding can happen due to early or late loss of baby teeth in children, or it can also be the result of genetics or trauma. Tongue-thrusting and thumb-sucking may also be contributors for toddlers and children.

Like with a deep overbite, children have numerous orthodontic options that can help avoid the need for additional treatment later, like palate expanders and baby teeth extraction. Once the bite has been corrected through braces or orthodontic treatment, many children and teens will also wear retainers to preserve their new alignment.

Overjet

Overjet is different from overbite, as it primarily concerns the upper front teeth. Some people know the overjet as “buck teeth” or “rabbit teeth” due to how it looks. There are many different things that can lead to overjet, including thumb-sucking, jaw size problems, and genetics.

Depending on the severity of the overjet, you have a variety of treatment options. Orthodontics alone can be a great solution if the teeth are simply misaligned. In the most serious cases where overjet happens due to jaw problems, corrective jaw surgery, and orthodontics can be used to fix the problem.

Spacing Problems

Spacing problems are common orthodontic issues that can occur at any age. Some people are born with spacing issues, while others can occur due to tooth extraction or tooth loss. Tongue thrusting and abnormal tooth development are other contributors to spacing problems, including minor gaps that are primarily cosmetic issues and large gaps that can harm your bite or cause problems elsewhere in your mouth.

Because spacing problems can differ in cause and severity so much, there are many different treatment options. Dental implants can help permanently replace lost teeth that lead to gaps. Braces are also one way to close small gaps and eliminate any cosmetic concerns. Porcelain veneers and dental bonding can also be used for minor gaps.

If you have any questions about how to achieve your perfect smile, don’t hesitate to reach out to your orthodontist in Carlsbad, Hulse Orthodontics. We’re here to help you smile with confidence!

Sep 20

Exploring Alternatives to Traditional Metal Braces

By Invisalign, Blog

When many patients think about orthodontic treatments, they typically think about traditional metal braces. While metal braces are one potential option to straighten your teeth and get a smile that you love, there are some other great solutions that eliminate the downsides of traditional braces and still let you get the straight, perfect smile of your dreams. Read on to learn more about the alternatives to traditional metal braces.

Invisalign

For many years, teens and adults have been using Invisalign clear aligners as a way to adjust their bite and get a gorgeous smile without unsightly brackets placed on their teeth. Invisalign is a unique system of clear aligners that are made of a proprietary material that hugs your teeth to gently move them to a new position. You’ll work with your orthodontist in Carlsbad to progress through your custom series of aligners and ensure perfect results.

Many people choose Invisalign because the clear aligner trays are virtually invisible, so it removes some of the discomfort and self-consciousness that can happen with traditional metal bracket braces. Patients also like that these clear aligner trays can be removed during the day for eating and drinking. Removal also allows for comfortable oral care, as you will be able to brush and floss your teeth normally and clean your aligner every day for a perfectly clean mouth.

One of the only potential downsides of Invisalign treatment is that they cannot be used for extremely complex orthodontic cases. However, your orthodontist can typically use Invisalign to fix many of the most common orthodontic issues that patients face. During your consultation, your orthodontist will take a close look at your bite and any current challenges that you’re dealing with to determine whether or not you’ll be a good candidate.

Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces, also referred to as clear braces, are another popular alternative to traditional metal braces. The brackets are designed to blend in with the surface of your teeth so that they will not be as apparent as traditional metal brackets. Because they still use the traditional bracket and wire system, they can be used to treat a broad range of orthodontic challenges, including more complex cases.

Many patients choose ceramic braces because they provide all of the benefits of traditional metal braces but they are not as visible. If you want a solution that you wear all the time but don’t want it to be as obvious that you have braces, they can be a great solution for your needs. 

One of the downsides of choosing ceramic braces is that you will still have something on the surface of your teeth every day, unlike Invisalign. As with any orthodontic treatment, you will need to take your oral care seriously. The clear wires and brackets can make it more challenging to thoroughly remove food debris. Additionally, ceramic braces can sometimes be more fragile than traditional metal brackets. Your brackets can always be replaced by your orthodontist, but this will require a trip to their office.

Whether you’re interested in Invisalign clear aligners or ceramic braces, you can schedule a free consultation today with Hulse Orthodontics. Call us to set up your appointment today at (760) 448-1344.

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