Orthodontics/Orthopedics

Although beautiful, straight teeth do improve our appearance, there is more to orthodontics than a pleasing smile. Teeth that are misaligned and crowded can cause decay, infection, gum disease and tooth loss. An uneven bite can cause other health problems such as headaches, dizziness, ringing of the ears or neck, shoulder and back pain leading to TMJ disorder.

By utilizing functional orthopedic appliances, Dr. Bixby has virtually eliminated the need to extract teeth or use cervical pull headgear in his orthodontic and TMJ patients.

Our office works with adults and children orthodontics. Orthodontic treatment can be beneficial at any age and over 25% of today's orthodontic patients are adults. Braces achieve straight teeth for a beautiful smile no matter what the age. Because no two smiles are alike, no two orthodontic treatment programs are alike either. The benefit to you is not only a gorgeous smile, but also healthy jaw joints.

The best orthodontists check the patient's jaw position to be sure braces are being used in the most effective manner. Otherwise, an orthodontic patient who is prone to jaw joint problems and airway obstruction may be thrown into TMJ and/or sleep apnea problems once the braces are in place or during/after the orthodontic process. Dr. Bixby checks the jaw joint position BEFORE placing any braces to be sure they will work together to accomplish the goal without causing additional problems. Isn't it great to have a doctor who works with orthodontics and the jaw joint to be sure you aren't wasting your hard-earned dollars?

Sometimes orthodontia is also suggested as a finishing treatment after the TMJ is corrected. That is, once the jaw joint is stabilized, the braces hold the bite and jaws in the appropriate position.

There are all kinds of braces nowadays like invisible braces, colored braces (for kids/teens) and even gold braces that look like jewelry - rather than the old silver kind. Come in for a consultation appointment to see what orthodontic options are available to you!