Overlapping teeth, where teeth crowd over one another, can be more than just a cosmetic issue; they can lead to significant oral health concerns if left untreated. Many individuals find themselves asking, "Why do my teeth overlap?" This common question has a variety of answers, each rooted in a mix of genetic and environmental factors. This condition, where teeth crowd over each other, can be more than just a cosmetic issue—it can lead to significant oral health concerns if left unaddressed. Ahava Orthodontics in Fort Worth is committed to demystifying the reasons behind overlapping teeth, shedding light on their potential impact on oral health, and detailing the effective treatment options available. At Ahava Orthodontics in Fort Worth, can treat overlapping teeth, their implications, and offer the most effective treatment options available to ensure both a functional and aesthetically pleasing smile. Causes of Overlapping Teeth Overlapping teeth can stem from a variety of factors, both genetic and environmental, that influence [...]

Gapping teeth, or diastema, refers to noticeable spaces between two or more teeth, a condition that can affect both children and adults. While some embrace these gaps as unique features, others may feel self-conscious and seek ways to minimize or close them for aesthetic reasons or to improve oral health. At Ahava Orthodontics in Fort Worth, we understand the concerns that come with gapping teeth and offer a range of solutions tailored to individual needs. This article explores the causes of gapping teeth, their potential impact on oral health, and effective treatment options available. Causes of Gapping Teeth Gapping teeth can result from various factors, including genetic predisposition, differences in tooth and jaw size, and certain habits or conditions that affect dental development: Genetics: Just as the color and shape of your teeth are inherited, so too can be the spacing between them. Gum Disease: Advanced gum disease can lead to bone loss, causing teeth to loosen [...]

Say Cheese! The key to smiling confidently is well-maintained straight teeth. This is why it's not uncommon for people to get braces as soon as they can. Wearing retainers is a must to get your teeth to maintain their corrected position. Yet, some circumstances lead to broken retainers. Here are some important things to know when you have a broken retainer. Signs You that You Need Retainer Maintenance After orthodontic treatment, your teeth may shift and move back to their original position. This is why wearing a retainer post-treatment is important. A retainer helps straighten your teeth by keeping them in position. Often, you might not be aware that you need retainer maintenance or have retainer issues. You only realize it when you notice your teeth are going back to their crooked position. A retainer may break because of hard foods, mouth injury, or wear and tear. Here are 3 signs that tell you when you need [...]

Most people are concerned about their teeth straightening journey during the process, but what’s next? Most people receive two little magic retainers to keep their teeth set in the perfect position for the rest of their lives. So what do retainers entail? Here is a quick guide!  Will I need to wear retainers?  Most likely, yes. After a long period of orthodontic treatment to straighten your teeth it is important to keep your jaw aligned and your teeth in place. Retainers stabilize your bones to ensure everything stays where it should. Are there different types of retainers? Yes there are a few different styles of retainers to choose from. After your orthodontic treatment you can have removable retainers, permanent retainers, or a combination of both. Your orthodontist will go over these different options and together you can decide what works best you! Removable Retainers  The traditional Hawley retainers are made of metal and a pink plastic [...]

Chances are you've heard a lot about Invisalign and how well the treatment can straighten teeth. However, since it's a fairly new method of teeth straightening, you might not know much about it. But don't worry, in this guide we’ll explain more about Invisalign braces and how they can help you get straight teeth. Continue reading to learn more. What Is Invisalign? As its name implies, Invisalign is an almost "invisible" aligner of teeth form of retainers. Aligners substitute for conventional metal braces. You get transparent, removable trays that comfortably fit over your teeth. The transparent portion of the trays is created with BPA-free plastic. And yes, the material is relatively translucent, so it's hard to see that you've got them on! This is one of the reasons why Invisalign is favored over standard braces by many adults and teenagers. Based on a 3-dimensional model of your whole mouth, the trays are also custom-made. This means that the [...]

Even though our Fort Worth orthodontist, Dr. Barron, can enhance a smile at any age, there is an optimal time period in which to start orthodontic treatment. Is your child showing signs of dental irregularities? Are you wondering when the right time is for their first orthodontic visit? Our practice agrees with the recommendation made by the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) that states all children should see an orthodontist by the age of 7 or at the first sign of orthodontic problems. This might seem early, but early detection of potential issues can prevent more serious problems down the line and make treatment easier and less costly. Early Signs Your Child May Need Orthodontic Attention It's essential to observe your child's oral development as they grow. Some signs that may indicate the need for an orthodontic consultation include difficulty in chewing or biting, mouth breathing, thumb sucking beyond age 5, overcrowded or misplaced teeth, and jaw misalignment. These [...]

Orthodontic conditions vary widely among patients, affecting not only the aesthetics of one's smile but also oral health and functionality. Understanding these conditions is the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile. At Ahava Orthodontics in Fort Worth, we specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of orthodontic issues, helping our patients achieve optimal oral health and aesthetics. This guide will explore common orthodontic conditions, their implications, and the treatments available. Crowded Teeth Crowded teeth occur when there is not enough space in the jaw to accommodate all of one's teeth comfortably. This condition can lead to teeth that are overlapping, twisted, or misaligned. Crowding complicates daily oral hygiene efforts, increasing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease due to the difficulty in cleaning between tightly packed teeth. At Ahava Orthodontics, we address crowding using a variety of treatments, including braces and clear aligners, which effectively create space and align the teeth into their [...]

Underbite, a dental condition that can affect both the functionality of your bite and the aesthetics of your smile, is characterized by the lower teeth extending out beyond the upper front teeth. This condition is not just about appearance; it can lead to a host of oral health issues. At Ahava Orthodontics in Fort Worth, we specialize in diagnosing and treating underbites, ensuring our patients achieve optimal oral health and confidence in their smiles. What Is an Underbite? An underbite, also known as a prognathism, occurs when the lower jaw (mandible) protrudes forward, causing the lower front teeth to sit in front of the upper front teeth. This condition varies in severity, from mild cases where the misalignment is barely noticeable to more severe cases that significantly affect jaw function and facial structure. Symptoms of an Underbite The symptoms of an underbite extend beyond aesthetic concerns and can significantly impact oral health and function. Common symptoms include: [...]

As an orthodontist, crowded teeth stand out as one of the most common issues faced by our patients of all ages. This condition not only affects the aesthetics of one’s smile but can also lead to a myriad of dental health problems if left untreated. At Ahava Orthodontics in Fort Worth, we specialize in transforming smiles through a variety of orthodontic treatments, including braces and aligners, tailored to address and correct crowded teeth effectively. How Do You Define Crowded Teeth? Crowded teeth, a common orthodontic condition, are defined as having insufficient space within the jaw to accommodate all of one's teeth in their normal alignment. This lack of space leads to teeth that are misaligned, overlapping, or twisted, sometimes pushing teeth forward or backward. Crowding can affect any part of the mouth and can range from mild, where the crowding is barely noticeable, to severe, where the misalignment significantly impacts the appearance and function of the teeth. [...]

The diagnosis process for teeth crowding involves several steps and utilizes a combination of visual examination, dental X-rays, and sometimes digital scans to assess the extent and nature of the crowding. If you're considering orthodontic treatment for teeth crowding, understanding what to expect during the diagnosis process can help you feel more prepared and informed. Here’s a breakdown when looking to diagnose teeth crowding and find the right solution: Initial Consultation The first step in diagnosing teeth crowding is an initial consultation with your orthodontist. During this visit, you'll discuss your dental history, any concerns you have about your teeth, and what you hope to achieve with treatment. This conversation helps the orthodontist understand your specific needs and expectations. Oral Examination The orthodontist will conduct a thorough oral examination to visually assess the crowding, the health of your teeth and gums, and any related orthodontic issues like bite misalignment. This examination provides a preliminary understanding of your [...]