Other Treatments

Early Intervention (Age Four)

At Smile Power Orthodontics, we believe everyone deserves to have a smile they’re proud of, and our mission is to help patients throughout Walnut Creek and the greater East Bay area achieve one. Our orthodontists work closely with our patients to design comprehensive orthodontic treatment plans that fit into any busy lifestyle, and our experienced team strives to make patients feel at home during every appointment. We’re proud to treat patients of all ages at our office — and sometimes, the best way to achieve a great smile is to start the treatment process early.

When Should My Child See an Orthodontist

Parents often ask us when to bring in their children for an initial orthodontic consultation, and often, they’re surprised by the answer. In keeping with the American Association of Orthodontists, we ask parents to bring their kids in for their first visit by the age of seven. However, sometimes an earlier evaluation can help us do more. This may seem early, but at this age, the back bite has established itself, which lets our orthodontists identify both current orthodontic problems and possible issues that may develop down the line.

Keep in mind that we won’t necessarily begin treatment at this early age. In fact, in most cases, we’ll simply monitor your child’s development until the appropriate time to start with braces. However, some orthodontic conditions are much easier and faster to treat during childhood — and if that’s the case for your child, we’ll recommend early orthodontic treatment.

Why Would My Child Need Early Orthodontic Treatment?

Early orthodontic treatment, also called interceptive treatment, refers to any orthodontic treatment done during childhood, usually from ages seven to nine. Most kids don’t need early treatment, but there are a few kinds of orthodontic malocclusion (bad bite) that are much easier to treat at this early age. This is because, during childhood, the mouth isn’t fully developed. In particular, the two halves of the upper jaw have yet to fuse together into a single bone. This means that we can use an oral appliance called a palatal expander to apply gentle, constant outward pressure on the jaw, pushing the two halves apart. Over time, this stimulates new bone growth in the center, gently widening the jaw and creating more space in the mouth.

So which conditions benefit from early treatment? Every patient is different, and ultimately your orthodontist will decide if early treatment is right based on a range of factors. However, conditions like crowding, underbite, and crossbite can all benefit from early treatment. Additionally, we may recommend early treatment if your child has protruding front teeth, as these are at an increased risk of damage from trauma.

Correcting Bad Habits with Early Orthodontic Treatment

In addition to malocclusions, we may also use early treatment to correct a number of bad habits some kids develop that can lead to orthodontic problems. In particular, there are three common habits that can lead to orthodontic problems and may warrant interceptive treatment:

• Thumb Sucking — The sucking reflex is a natural instinct in humans, and for infants and babies, sucking on a thumb or finger is a harmless form of self-comfort. However, if thumb sucking continues past age four, the pressure it puts on the upper and lower teeth can cause them to jut forward, creating a condition called open bite that impairs speech and bite function. If prolonged thumb sucking becomes a problem, we can use a simple orthodontic appliance to effortlessly, painlessly break the habit.
• Mouth Breathing — Another abnormal habit is mouth breathing, a breathing pattern where the child’s mouth is constantly open, passing air straight to the lungs instead of going through the nose. Over time, mouth breathing can cause changes to the development of the musculature of the face and tongue, and it may even cause jaw problems. We offer a variety of options to help break the habit of mouth breathing.
• Tongue Thrusting — Finally, some children develop a habit where they push the tongue into the front teeth when they swallow. Over time, this pressure causes the teeth to learn forward, potentially leading to an open bite. Similar to thumb sucking, we can break this habit easily and painlessly with an orthodontic appliance.

Early orthodontic treatment isn’t necessary for every child, but in cases where it is needed, it can make a dramatic difference in the convenience and efficacy of your child’s orthodontic care. If you have more questions about early treatment or your child is nearing age seven and needs an orthodontic evaluation, Smile Power Orthodontics is here to help.

Airway Orthodontics

At Smile Power Orthodontics, we believe that orthodontic care is about more than just creating a beautiful smile — it’s also about supporting your overall health. Airway orthodontics focuses on correcting structural issues in the mouth and jaw that affect breathing, particularly during sleep. By addressing these issues early, we can help patients of all ages enjoy better breathing, improved sleep, and enhanced quality of life.

Airway orthodontics involves evaluating and treating the alignment of the jaw, teeth, and other oral structures to ensure that the airway is clear and unobstructed. Many orthodontic issues, such as narrow dental arches, misaligned jaws, or crowded teeth, can contribute to restricted airflow, leading to problems like mouth breathing, snoring, or sleep-disordered breathing conditions such as obstructive sleep apnea.

Signs that airway issues may be present include:

• Snoring or noisy breathing during sleep
• Difficulty breathing through the nose
• Frequent waking or restless sleep
• Daytime fatigue or difficulty concentrating
• Behavioral issues, particularly in children

How Orthodontics Can Help with Airway Health

By addressing structural concerns in the teeth and jaw, airway orthodontics can significantly improve airflow and reduce related health issues.

Orthodontic solutions for airway issues:

• Palate Expansion — Widening a narrow palate creates more room in the mouth and improves nasal airflow, especially in children.
• Jaw Alignment — Correcting the position of the upper and lower jaws can help open the airway and improve breathing.
• Early Intervention — Identifying and addressing airway issues in young children can guide proper growth and prevent more serious problems later in life.

Benefits of Airway Orthodontics

Improving airway function has far-reaching benefits for your health and well-being:

• Better Sleep — Reduced airway obstruction leads to more restful, restorative sleep.
• Improved Focus and Energy — Proper breathing during sleep supports better cognitive function and daytime energy.
• Enhanced Growth and Development — For children, airway orthodontics supports proper facial development and overall health.
• Long-Term Health Benefits — Addressing airway issues early can reduce the risk of conditions like sleep apnea, heart problems, and other complications associated with poor airflow.

At Smile Power Orthodontics, we take a holistic approach to your care, focusing on both your smile and your overall health. If you or your child are experiencing symptoms of airway issues, we’re here to help. Our team will conduct a thorough evaluation to determine the best course of action, ensuring improved breathing and a healthier, more confident smile.

Sleep Apnea Treatment

At Smile Power Orthodontics, we understand that sleep apnea can have a profound impact on your quality of life. Sleep apnea occurs when the airway becomes partially or completely blocked during sleep, leading to interruptions in breathing and restless nights. Left untreated, this condition can contribute to serious health issues like fatigue, heart problems, and metabolic disorders. With specialized orthodontic care, we can help manage sleep apnea, improving your sleep and overall well-being.

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder characterized by repeated pauses in breathing during sleep. These pauses are typically caused by the relaxation of the muscles in the throat or by structural issues in the airway. Common symptoms include:

• Loud snoring or gasping during sleep
• Frequent waking throughout the night
• Daytime fatigue or difficulty concentrating
• Morning headaches or dry mouth

How Orthodontics Can Help with Sleep Apnea

Orthodontic treatments can address the structural issues that contribute to sleep apnea, helping to improve airflow and reduce symptoms. Our team uses advanced diagnostic tools to evaluate your airway and create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Treatment options for sleep apnea may include:

• Oral Appliances — Custom-made devices gently reposition the jaw and tongue to keep the airway open during sleep. These are comfortable, non-invasive, and easy to use.
• Palate Expansion — For children and some adults, expanding a narrow palate can improve nasal breathing and reduce airway obstructions.
• Jaw Alignment — Orthodontic treatment to correct misaligned jaws can significantly enhance airway function and reduce apnea symptoms.
• Collaboration with Specialists — In some cases, we work closely with sleep specialists or ENT doctors to provide comprehensive care.

Benefits of Sleep Apnea Treatment

Effective treatment for sleep apnea can improve nearly every aspect of your health and daily life:

• Restful Sleep — Wake up feeling refreshed and energized.
• Improved Health — Reduce the risk of serious complications like high blood pressure, heart disease, and diabetes.
• Better Focus and Mood — Say goodbye to brain fog and irritability caused by poor sleep.
• Enhanced Quality of Life — Enjoy more energy for the activities you love.

If you or a loved one is struggling with sleep apnea, Smile Power Orthodontics is here to help. Our team specializes in identifying and treating airway issues to improve breathing, sleep quality, and overall health.

Schedule a consultation today to learn more about our sleep apnea treatments and start your journey to better sleep and a healthier life.

Two-Phase Treatment

At Smile Power Orthodontics, we believe in the power of early intervention to create beautiful, healthy smiles. Two-phase orthodontic treatment is a specialized approach designed to guide the development of a child’s teeth and jaw at the optimal time. By addressing orthodontic concerns in two distinct phases, we can achieve results that are more effective, efficient, and lasting.

Two-phase treatment is a comprehensive orthodontic process divided into two stages:

Phase One: Early Intervention

This phase begins while your child still has a mix of baby and permanent teeth, typically between ages six and ten. The goal is to address significant developmental issues early, such as:

• Narrow jaws or dental arches
• Severe crowding of teeth
• Bite problems, like crossbites, overbites, or underbitesAirway concerns or habits like thumb-sucking

During Phase One, we use appliances like expanders, limited braces, or other tools to guide jaw growth, create space for incoming teeth, and improve oral function.

Resting Period

After Phase One, your child enters a resting period where most of their permanent teeth erupt naturally. During this time, we monitor their progress to ensure everything is developing as planned.

Phase Two: Comprehensive Treatment

Phase Two typically begins when most of the permanent teeth have come in, usually between ages 11 and 13. In this phase, we use full braces, Invisalign, or other orthodontic appliances to fine-tune tooth alignment, ensuring a properly functioning bite and a beautifully straight smile.

Benefits of Two-Phase Treatment

Two-phase treatment offers unique advantages by addressing issues early and at the right time:

• Optimized Results — Early intervention ensures proper jaw growth, making it easier to achieve a balanced, symmetrical smile.
• Reduced Complexity — Correcting significant issues in Phase One can minimize the length and complexity of Phase Two treatment.
• Improved Oral Function — Early treatment can enhance biting, chewing, speaking, and breathing.
• Boosted Confidence — A healthy smile at every stage of development fosters self-esteem in growing kids.

Is Two-Phase Treatment Right for Your Child?

Every child is unique, and not all will need two-phase treatment. However, an early orthodontic evaluation — by age seven — is crucial for identifying potential issues and determining the best course of action. Our team will carefully assess your child’s oral development and recommend a personalized treatment plan tailored to their needs.

Two-phase treatment is a proactive, effective way to set your child up for long-term orthodontic success. At Smile Power Orthodontics, we’re dedicated to creating healthy, confident smiles through thoughtful, expert care.

Accelerated Treatment

At Smile Power Orthodontics, we understand that your time is valuable and that achieving your dream smile shouldn’t take longer than necessary. That’s why we offer accelerated orthodontic treatment options, designed to shorten your treatment time while maintaining the same high-quality results. With cutting-edge techniques and technologies, you can enjoy a straighter, healthier smile faster than ever before.

Accelerated treatment enhances the natural process of tooth movement, allowing your orthodontic care to progress more quickly. This approach can be applied to many treatment methods, including braces and Invisalign, and is especially popular with patients looking to achieve their ideal smile on a tighter timeline.

The Propel VPro5 is a high-frequency vibration device designed to complement your orthodontic treatment. Patients use the device at home for just five minutes a day. These gentle vibrations stimulate tooth movement and improve the efficiency of orthodontic appliances like aligners or braces.

How Propel VPro5 Works

The VPro5 works by generating vibrations that stimulate the bone surrounding your teeth, increasing cellular activity and promoting faster tooth movement. This allows your teeth to shift more efficiently into their desired positions.

• Accelerated Treatment — Reduces the overall time needed to achieve your smile goals.
• Enhanced Comfort — The vibrations help reduce discomfort by improving aligner fit and alleviating pressure.
• Convenient and Easy to Use — With just five minutes of daily use, it’s simple to incorporate into your routine.

Benefits of Accelerated Orthodontic Treatment

Accelerated treatment offers numerous advantages for patients who want to achieve their results sooner without compromising effectiveness:

• Shorter Treatment Time — Accelerated techniques can reduce treatment times by several months, depending on the complexity of your case.
• Enhanced Comfort — Many methods reduce pressure and discomfort, making the process smoother.
• Convenient for Busy Lifestyles — Perfect for adults, teens, or anyone with a packed schedule who wants faster results without sacrificing quality care.

Accelerated orthodontic options are ideal for many patients, whether you’re correcting minor alignment issues or addressing more complex concerns. During your consultation, we’ll assess your needs and determine if accelerated treatment is a suitable option for you.

With accelerated orthodontic treatment at Smile Power Orthodontics, achieving a stunning smile is quicker and more convenient than ever. Let us help you fast-track your results without compromising care or quality.

Schedule your consultation today to learn more about our accelerated options and take the first step toward your perfect smile — faster!

Expanders

At Smile Power Orthodontics, we use cutting-edge tools like Maxillary Skeletal Expanders (MSE) to address narrow palates and improve oral health, airway function, and overall smile aesthetics. MSE is a powerful orthodontic solution designed for patients who require greater expansion of the upper jaw than traditional expanders can provide. By leveraging advanced technology, MSE offers predictable, effective results for teens and adults.

Maxillary Skeletal Expanders are a specialized type of expander designed to widen the upper jaw by working directly with the skeletal structure. Unlike traditional expanders, which primarily rely on dental support, MSE uses small, temporary anchors called mini-screws placed into the palate for additional stability. This allows for greater expansion of the jaw while minimizing unwanted dental movement.

Who Can Benefit from MSE?

MSE is particularly effective for patients with:

• Narrow Upper Jaws — Creating more space in the upper arch for better alignment of teeth.
• Crowding or Crossbites — Correcting bite issues caused by a discrepancy between the upper and lower jaws.
• Airway Concerns — Expanding the palate can improve nasal airflow and alleviate breathing issues, such as sleep-disordered breathing or mild sleep apnea.
• Adults or Teens — While traditional expanders are more effective in younger children, MSE is ideal for older teens and adults whose jaw growth is complete.

How Does MSE Work?

The MSE device is custom-designed to fit the patient’s palate and is anchored using mini-screws for stability. The expander applies controlled, gentle pressure to the maxillary bone, encouraging the palate to widen over time.

• Evaluation and Customization — We conduct a thorough examination and take detailed scans of your jaw to determine the need for MSE and design your custom expander.
• Placement — The MSE device is secured to the palate with the mini-screws during a simple, minimally invasive procedure.
• Activation — Over several weeks, you’ll activate the expander as directed, allowing gradual and precise widening of the upper jaw.
• Stabilization — Once the desired expansion is achieved, the MSE remains in place temporarily to ensure the new jaw width stabilizes.

MSE offers significant advantages for patients who need advanced palate expansion:

• Improved Alignment — Creates space for proper alignment of teeth, reducing crowding and bite issues.
• Enhanced Airway Function — Expanding the palate opens the nasal passages, improving breathing and sleep quality.
• Effective for Adults — Unlike traditional expanders, MSE works well for older teens and adults.
• Minimized Side Effects — Focuses on skeletal expansion, reducing unnecessary movement of the teeth.

Maxillary Skeletal Expanders provide a modern, effective solution for patients with narrow palates or airway concerns. At Smile Power Orthodontics, we’re committed to offering the latest technology to deliver exceptional results and improve your overall health.

Surgery Cases

At Smile Power Orthodontics, we specialize in managing complex orthodontic cases that may require surgical intervention. For patients with severe bite issues, jaw misalignment, or other structural concerns, combining orthodontics with oral surgery can deliver life-changing results. Our experienced orthodontists work closely with skilled oral surgeons to ensure your treatment is seamless, precise, and achieves the best possible outcome.

When is Surgery Needed in Orthodontics?

Orthodontic surgery, also known as orthognathic surgery, is typically recommended for patients whose jaw alignment or facial structure cannot be corrected with braces or aligners alone. These cases often involve:

• Severe overbites, underbites, or crossbites
• Jaw asymmetry or misalignment
• Difficulty chewing, speaking, or breathing due to jaw issues
• Significant facial imbalances or aesthetic concerns

By combining orthodontic care with surgical intervention, we can correct these issues to improve both function and appearance.

How We Approach Surgery Cases

Collaboration is key when it comes to surgery cases. Our orthodontists work hand-in-hand with your oral surgeon to create a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.

• Initial Consultation and Planning — We begin with a thorough evaluation, including X-rays, 3D imaging, and detailed measurements, to understand the extent of the issue and plan your treatment.
• Pre-Surgical Orthodontics — Before surgery, you’ll undergo orthodontic treatment to align your teeth and prepare your jaw for the procedure. This phase typically lasts 12-18 months.
• Surgical Intervention — Your oral surgeon performs the corrective jaw surgery to reposition the jaws for improved alignment and function.
• Post-Surgical Orthodontics — After surgery, we refine your bite and make any final adjustments to your teeth using braces or aligners.

Our orthodontists are dedicated to providing personalized care throughout your surgical orthodontic journey. By collaborating closely with your oral surgeon, we ensure every aspect of your treatment is carefully coordinated for optimal results. You’ll benefit from a team of experts who are focused on your health, comfort, and long-term success.

If you have a complex orthodontic issue that may require surgery, Smile Power Orthodontics is here to guide you through every step of the process. With our expertise and collaboration with leading oral surgeons, we’ll help you achieve a functional, balanced, and beautiful smile.