As our society continues to increase in complexity, the incidence of Bruxism and Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMJD) continues to rise. 

Nocturnal Bruxism may constitute the most destructive form of bruxism (due largely to the fact that the patient tends to be unaware of the habit until it is too late) and TMJD is an extremely complex problem that impacts an increasingly significant percentage of the population.

Although a wide variety of treatment approaches and appliance designs are available for the treatment of these disorders, the most common appliance of choice is a splint.

The biggest problem observed in adult dental patients is ABNORMAL OCCLUSAL WEAR.  This ends up causing a decrease in the vertical dimension of the patient -- wearing down teeth to the point where full mouth reconstruction is inevitable.

Is There Room for Philosophy in Orthodontics?

One may not typically consider an orthodontist a philosopher, but the decisions he or she makes in how to treat patients are grounded in personal philosophy regarding the best treatment methods. Take for example, an orthodontist confronted with a patient with crowded teeth. Does she pull teeth to make room or does she believe in carefully guiding arch development to properly align teeth?

The Crozat appliance was one of the very first devices to embody the philosophy of arch development to preserve facial beauty, TMJ health, and airway development. In 1964, Frank F. Lamons, professor and chairman of the department of orthodontists at the University School of Dentistry wrote about the “Crozat philosophy,” which seeks “harmony in form and structure as well as harmony in function.”

Our video independent learning courses and “Sessions with the Experts” series feature over 180 individual videos designed and created to make you a proficient appliance therapy provider.  

These days, your patients don’t have to walk around with a mouth full of metal if they want straight teeth. Clear orthodontic tray systems, are a great option for patients who would otherwise feel self-conscious about wearing braces --especially adults who work in professional environments.

However, not every patient is a good candidate for clear orthodontic trays. If you have a patient who is wants an alternative esthetic option, consider offering ceramic braces with tooth-colored ceramic brackets. Though ceramic brackets aren’t as subtle as clear removable trays, they are significantly less noticeable than typical metal brackets.

The Orthodontist Toolbox – Celebrating Bird Beak Pliers

They say that a craftsman is only as good as his (or her) tools. If that is the case, then let’s celebrate one of the most common (and yet least praised) tools in the orthodontist’s toolbox. The bird break plier hardly gets any attention, but most orthodontists keep this versatile tool close at hand.

Bird Beak Pliers allow orthodontists to bend and shape wires on appliances. They’re the perfect tool for easy, clean cuts – when wires too long or threaten to irritate sensitive tissue in the mouth.