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Correcting an overbite in orthodontics can involve a combination of braces and other orthodontic appliances or Invisalign. Here are the general steps involved in correcting an overbite:

1. Consultation: Call our office and schedule an appointment with Dr. Azizi. He will examine your teeth, take X-rays, and digital scans of your mouth.

2. Treatment plan: Dr. Azizi will develop a personalized treatment plan based on your specific needs. This may involve braces, Invisalign or other orthodontic appliances.

3. Braces: Dr. Azizi will bond brackets to your teeth using a special adhesive if braces are recommended. These brackets act as anchors for the wires that will move your teeth into the correct position over time. The wires are adjusted at your visit to apply gentle pressure and guide the teeth into alignment.

4. Invisalign: Dr. Azizi will write and submit your treatment plan to the Invisalign team. He will put special features in your Invisalign trays to open and correct your bite and also stop the wear down your overbite may cause to your lower teeth.

5. Elastics or rubber bands: Elastics or rubber bands may be used to correct the overbite. They can be used on both Invisalign and braces. If you do not wear the rubber bands as instructed this could push back your treatment.

6. Regular check-ups: Throughout the treatment process, you will have regular appointments with Dr. Azizi to monitor progress, make adjustments, and ensure everything is progressing as planned. It is very important to go to these appointments so treatment doesn't take longer than necessary.

7. Retainers: Once the braces or Invisalign have successfully corrected the overbite, you will need to wear a retainer to maintain the results. Retainers are clear and removable. After a certain amount of time after treatment, you will only need to wear the retainer at night.

It's important to note that the specific treatment plan for correcting an overbite may vary depending on the severity of the overbite and individual factors.

When you are missing a permanent tooth, a dentist may recommend an implant. Typically implants cannot be done until growth has completed. It is important to consult with a dental professional to see if getting an implant is the right solution for your specific situation.

Getting an implant for a missing tooth is important for several reasons:

1. Restoring Function: A missing tooth can affect your ability to chew and speak properly. If you get an implant, you can regain the full function of your mouth. This will allow eating food properly and speaking clearly.

2. Maintaining Oral Health: When a tooth is missing, the surrounding teeth may shift or tilt into the empty space, leading to misalignment and bite problems. The jawbone in the missing tooth area may start to deteriorate over time. Implants help prevent issues by providing stability and support to the surrounding teeth and jawbone.

3. Preserving Facial Structure: Teeth play an important role in maintaining the structure of your face. When a tooth is missing, the jawbone in that area can shrink, causing the face to appear sunken and aged. Implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing bone loss. This will also keep the natural contours of the face.

4. Aesthetics: Missing teeth can impact your smile and overall appearance. Implants are designed to look and feel like natural teeth. Implants can help boost self-confidence and improve overall quality of life.

5. Longevity: Implants are a durable, long-lasting solution for missing teeth. With proper care and maintenance, they can last a lifetime. They're very pricey, but can be best option in the long run compared to other tooth replacement options.

The implant procedure typically involves several steps and may vary depending on individual circumstances. Here is a general overview of the implant procedure:

1. Initial Consultation: The first step is to consult with a dental professional who will evaluate your oral health, take X-rays, and discuss treatment options. They will determine if you are a suitable candidate for dental implants.

2. Treatment Planning: If you are eligible for implants, a comprehensive treatment plan will be created. This plan will consider factors such as the number of missing teeth, the condition of the jawbone, and any additional procedures that may be required; such as bone grafting or other tooth extractions.

3. Implant Placement: The next step is the surgical placement of the implant. This involves making an incision in the gum tissue to expose the jawbone and drilling a small hole to insert the implant screw. The implant is then positioned in the jawbone, and the gum tissue is stitched back into place.

4. Bone Growth: After the implant is placed, a process called osseointegration occurs. This happens when the implant fuses with the surrounding jawbone- creating a strong and stable foundation. This typically takes several months to complete.

5. Abutment Placement: Once the bone growth is successful, a small connector called an abutment is attached to the implant. The abutment serves as a support for the final restoration.

6. Final Restoration: After the gums have healed and the abutment is in place, a custom-made dental crown, bridge, or denture is attached to the abutment. The restoration is designed to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth, providing a natural-looking and functional replacement.

7. Follow-up Care: Regular, follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor the healing process and ensure the implant is functioning properly. Good oral hygiene practices, including brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups are essential to maintain the health and longevity of the implant.

It is important to note that the implant procedure may require multiple visits and can take months to complete.

Halloween is a holiday celebrated on October 31st each year. Halloween is associated with various traditions and customs including: dressing up in costumes, carving pumpkins into jack-o'-lanterns, going trick-or-treating, attending costume parties, and telling scary stories.

Here are tips for a safe Halloween:

1. Plan a safe route: Before heading out to trick-or-treat, plan a route that is well-lit and in a familiar neighborhood. Avoid areas with heavy traffic or poorly lit streets.

2. Use reflective clothing or accessories: Make sure you and your children are visible to drivers by wearing reflective clothing or adding reflective tape to costumes and bags. Carry a flashlight or glow sticks to increase visibility.

3. Choose safe costumes: Pick costumes that do not obstruct vision. Avoid long, trailing costumes that can cause trips and falls. Use non-toxic face paint or makeup instead of mask.

4. Stay on sidewalks and crosswalks: Encourage children to walk on sidewalks and use crosswalks when crossing the street. Remind them to look both ways before crossing and to never dart out between parked cars.

5. Travel in groups: Trick-or-treating in groups is safer than going alone. Accompany young children and ensure older children have a buddy system. Set a curfew for older children to ensure they return home at a reasonable time.

6. Check treats before consuming: Inspect all treats before allowing children to eat them. Discard any unwrapped or suspicious-looking items. Avoid homemade treats from strangers.

7. Keep pets secure: Halloween can be stressful for pets. Keep them indoors and away from the front door to prevent them from escaping or becoming frightened by trick-or-treaters.

8. Be mindful of allergies: If your child has food allergies, be cautious about the treats they receive. The Teal Pumpkin Project promotes offering non-food treats for children with allergies.

9. Stay vigilant: Keep an eye out for any suspicious activity or individuals while trick-or-treating. Report any concerns to local authorities.

Orthodontic month is observed in October to raise awareness about the importance of orthodontic treatment as well as oral health. During October, Dr. Azizi and his staff will promote the benefits of orthodontic care and educate the public about different treatment options, and encourage individuals to participate in our COMPLIMENTARY scanning and orthodontic consultation.

During Orthodontic month, Dr. Azizi is offering a special promotion for our patient's friends and family--just mention your name when coming for the consult. Our office will also be asking our patients to take the No Bullying pledge- as it is important for kids to not be made fun of due to their orthodontic treatment.

Orthodontic treatment consists of the use of braces, Invisalign, and other orthodontic appliances to correct misaligned teeth, bite issues, and jaw problems. It can improve the appearance of the smile, enhance oral health, and prevent future dental problems.

Orthodontic month serves as a reminder for individuals to prioritize their oral health and consider orthodontic treatment if needed. Dr. Azizi is always willing to connect with his patients and the community, providing them with the necessary information and resources about their dental care and best treatment plans. Our goal is to promote health, confident smiles for a lifetime!

Call our office today to set up your COMPLIMENTARY consulation!