Other Treatments

TruDenta

TruDenta offers a whole-body approach to pain treatment. Patients can receive long-lasting relief for conditions related to sleep apnea, migraines, tinnitus, and vertigo with non-invasive, FDA-cleared therapies.

How does TruDenta work?

TruDenta’s different technologies work together to reduce pain and inflammation from the very first session, with the end goal of creating a complete and lasting resolution of symptoms. There are no injections and no medications means no unpleasant side effects. The whole-body approach combines state-of-the-art ultrasound, cold laser, microcurrent, and trigger point manipulation techniques.

How Can TruDenta Help?

Chronic headaches & Migraines

Chronic head pain sufferers are 3x more likely to become depressed and also are more likely to have anxiety, fatigue, and trouble sleeping. Chronic headaches can now be treated with more than just painkillers, but under half of the millions of headache and migraine sufferers are ever professionally diagnosed and treated.

Tinnitus

Tinnitus can have many causes, and it can be difficult to pinpoint which one is responsible for your tinnitus. Luckily, in many cases tinnitus can now be traced to underlying problems with the mouth and jaw — in these cases, chronic tinnitus symptoms can actually be completely and permanently resolved.

Vertigo & dizziness

Vertigo and dizziness can have many causes, and it can be difficult to pinpoint which one is responsible for your symptoms. Luckily, in many cases vertigo and dizziness can now be traced to underlying problems with the mouth and jaw — in these cases, chronic balance issues can actually be completely and permanently resolved.

TMJ Disorder

TMJ problems can be chronic and debilitating, and if left untreated can lead to other symptoms like migraines and tinnitus. Fortunately, there are now non-invasive and drug-free ways to resolve imbalances in the TMJ.

TMJ/TMD Treatment

At Carolina Braces, we understand that Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD) can significantly affect your quality of life. TMD occurs when there is dysfunction or misalignment in the temporomandibular joints (TMJ), the complex hinges connecting your jawbone to your skull. TMJ issues can cause chronic pain, difficulty with chewing, and discomfort in daily activities. That’s why we specialize in TMJ/TMD treatment, working closely with the top TMJ doctors to provide the highest level of care for even the most severe cases.

The TMJ is one of the most complex joints in the body, allowing you to perform essential functions like talking, chewing, and swallowing. When this joint becomes misaligned or stressed, it can lead to:

• Jaw pain or tenderness
• Difficulty opening or closing your mouth
• Clicking or popping sounds in the jaw
• Headaches, earaches, or facial pain
• Jaw locking or stiffness
• Neck and shoulder pain

TMD can be caused by a variety of factors, including jaw injuries, arthritis, teeth grinding (bruxism), and poor alignment of the teeth and jaw.

Our Approach to TMJ/TMD Treatment

At Carolina Braces, we take a comprehensive approach to TMJ/TMD treatment, addressing both the symptoms and underlying causes of the condition. Our team of highly trained orthodontists specializes in treating patients with TMJ disorders, and we collaborate with some of the best TMJ doctors in the field to ensure that each patient receives personalized, effective care.

Here’s how we help patients with TMJ/TMD:

1. Thorough Diagnosis: We begin with an in-depth evaluation to determine the root cause of your TMJ issues. This may include a physical exam, digital X-rays, and advanced imaging techniques to assess the joints and surrounding muscles.
2. Custom Orthodontic Solutions: In many cases, orthodontic treatment can alleviate TMJ pain by correcting the alignment of your teeth and jaw. Braces, clear aligners, or other orthodontic appliances can help realign your bite, relieving pressure on the TMJ and reducing discomfort.
3. Collaboration with TMJ Specialists: For severe or complex cases, we work closely with leading TMJ specialists to provide a multidisciplinary approach to treatment. These experts bring their extensive experience in treating TMJ disorders, ensuring that you receive the most advanced and effective care available.

What makes Carolina Braces stand out in TMJ/TMD care is our focus on providing comprehensive, personalized treatment for each patient. TMJ disorders are complex, and our specialized expertise allows us to create custom treatment plans tailored to your unique needs. Whether your condition is mild or severe, we are committed to helping you find relief and improving your quality of life.

• Advanced Technology: We use cutting-edge orthodontic technology to evaluate and treat TMJ disorders with precision and care.
• Collaborative Care: By partnering with TMJ experts, we ensure that our patients have access to the best resources and treatments available for even the most challenging cases.
• Holistic Approach: We focus on treating the whole patient, not just the symptoms. Our goal is to provide long-term solutions that address the underlying causes of your TMJ disorder.

Is Orthodontic Treatment Right for Your TMJ/TMD?

Orthodontic treatment may be an effective solution for relieving TMJ pain if your disorder is related to misaligned teeth or bite issues. By correcting these problems, we can help reduce the strain on your temporomandibular joints, providing relief from pain and discomfort. Our experienced orthodontists will evaluate your specific condition and determine the best treatment plan to meet your needs.

Airway Orthodontics

At Carolina Braces, we don’t just focus on creating beautiful smiles; we also care about your overall health, particularly how your airway health is influenced by orthodontics. Our practice specializes in airway orthodontics, assessing the way your teeth, jaws, and airway interact. By considering the airway during treatment, we can help improve breathing patterns and reduce the risk of airway issues that can affect sleep, health, and quality of life.

What is Airway Orthodontics?

Airway orthodontics is a specialized field of orthodontics that looks beyond straightening teeth to assess the airway’s role in a patient’s overall health. A narrow or obstructed airway can lead to breathing problems, particularly during sleep, and can be a contributing factor in conditions such as sleep apnea or snoring.

Orthodontic issues such as misaligned jaws, improper bites, or narrow dental arches can negatively impact the airway, making breathing more difficult, especially at night. Through airway orthodontics, we assess these factors and design treatment plans that improve both your bite and your ability to breathe properly.

How We Assess Airway Health

At Carolina Braces, we take a comprehensive approach to evaluating your airway health. During your consultation, we assess the structure of your mouth, teeth, jaws, and airways using advanced technology, including 3D imaging. This allows us to identify any areas where orthodontic treatment can improve airflow and overall health.

Some of the factors we consider include:

• Jaw alignment and how it impacts breathing
• The size and shape of the dental arches
• Whether the airway is narrow or obstructed
• Any signs of sleep-disordered breathing, like snoring or sleep apnea

How Orthodontics Can Improve Airway Health

Orthodontic treatment can play a significant role in improving airway health, especially for patients with narrow airways or bite issues that contribute to breathing problems. By adjusting the positioning of the teeth and jaws, we can help create more space in the mouth and airway, promoting better airflow.

Common orthodontic treatments that can improve airway health include:

• Palatal expansion: Expanding the upper jaw can increase the space in the nasal airway, making breathing easier, especially for growing children.
• Jaw realignment: Correcting overbites, underbites, or crossbites can improve the position of the jaws, preventing airway obstruction.
• Orthodontic appliances: Specialized devices can be used to adjust the bite and improve airway function, particularly in growing children.

Your airway health can have a significant impact on your overall well-being. Poor airway function can lead to:

• Sleep apnea: A condition where breathing is interrupted during sleep, often caused by a blocked airway.
• Snoring: Frequent snoring can be a sign of obstructed airflow and lead to restless sleep.
• Fatigue: Poor sleep quality from breathing issues can result in daytime fatigue, reduced focus, and irritability.
• Behavioral issues in children: Undiagnosed airway problems can contribute to difficulties with focus, attention, and behavior in children.

By addressing airway health as part of our orthodontic treatment, we not only help you achieve a beautiful smile but also improve your long-term health and quality of life.

At Carolina Braces, we believe that orthodontic care should go beyond aesthetics. Our team specializes in airway orthodontics to ensure that our patients experience the full benefits of treatment — not just in terms of appearance, but in overall health. We work closely with each patient to create a personalized treatment plan that considers their airway health, ensuring that the treatment enhances their ability to breathe, sleep, and live comfortably.

Myocentric Orthodontic Treatment

At Carolina Braces, we recognize that effective orthodontic treatment goes beyond simply aligning teeth. One of our specialties is Myocentric Orthodontic Treatment, a holistic approach that focuses on optimizing jaw function, facial aesthetics, and overall oral health. This innovative technique considers the relationship between the teeth, jaws, and the muscles involved in jaw movement, ensuring a more comprehensive and effective treatment outcome.

Myocentric Orthodontics is based on the concept that proper alignment of the teeth and jaws is crucial for balanced muscle function and harmonious facial aesthetics. This approach emphasizes the importance of the masticatory system — the muscles, bones, and joints that work together to support chewing and speaking.

By assessing how these elements interact, we can create a treatment plan that not only straightens teeth but also enhances the overall function of the jaw, leading to a more stable and healthy bite. This method contrasts with traditional orthodontics, which may focus solely on the positioning of teeth without considering the surrounding structures.

Key Principles of Myocentric Orthodontic Treatment

• Muscle Function and Relaxation: Myocentric treatment prioritizes the function of the muscles that control jaw movement. By understanding how these muscles work together, we can develop a treatment plan that encourages relaxation and proper function, reducing strain and discomfort.
• Jaw Relationships: We assess how the upper and lower jaws relate to one another, identifying any discrepancies that may cause issues such as pain, discomfort, or difficulty chewing. Correcting these relationships can lead to improved jaw function and reduced tension in the muscles.
• Facial Aesthetics: Myocentric Orthodontics considers the overall harmony of the face. By focusing on the relationship between the teeth, jaws, and facial structure, we can create a treatment plan that enhances not only your smile but also your facial profile and symmetry.
• Long-Term Stability: This approach aims to create a stable bite that maintains its alignment over time. By addressing the underlying muscle function and jaw relationships, we can minimize the risk of future orthodontic issues.

Benefits of Myocentric Orthodontic Treatment

• Improved Jaw Function: By prioritizing muscle function and jaw relationships, Myocentric Orthodontics can lead to better chewing and speaking abilities.
• Reduced Discomfort: This approach can help alleviate tension and discomfort often associated with traditional orthodontic treatments, leading to a more pleasant experience.
• Enhanced Aesthetics: Myocentric treatment focuses on creating a harmonious smile and facial profile, enhancing your overall appearance.
• Long-Lasting Results: By addressing the root causes of dental misalignment, we aim for results that stand the test of time.

If you’re looking for an orthodontic treatment that prioritizes both aesthetics and function, Myocentric Orthodontic Treatment at Carolina Braces may be the right choice for you. Our team is dedicated to providing a comprehensive approach to orthodontics that considers your unique needs and goals.

Request a consultation today to learn more about how Myocentric Orthodontics can help you achieve a beautiful, functional smile and enhance your overall quality of life. Let us help you discover the difference a holistic approach to orthodontics can make!

Two-Phase Treatment

At Carolina Braces, we believe in providing the best possible care for our patients, especially when it comes to the orthodontic treatment of children. One of the most effective methods we offer is Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment. This approach is designed to address orthodontic issues at different stages of a child’s development, ensuring that their teeth, jaws, and facial structure develop in harmony for optimal long-term results.

Two-phase orthodontic treatment involves two distinct phases of orthodontic care, each tailored to meet the specific needs of growing children. The first phase usually begins around ages 7 to 10, while the second phase typically occurs during the teenage years. This method allows for early intervention, addressing issues that may impact the child’s oral health, function, and appearance as they grow.

Phase One: Early Intervention

The first phase of treatment focuses on correcting bite problems and guiding the growth of the jaw and teeth. During this stage, we aim to:

• Manage Crowding: If there’s insufficient space for adult teeth to come in, early treatment can help create the necessary space, preventing more complex issues later.
• Correct Jaw Alignment: Phase one treatment may involve the use of expanders or retainers to adjust the positioning of the jaws, ensuring they are aligned properly.
• Improve Facial Aesthetics: Early intervention can help to shape the facial structure and improve symmetry, resulting in a more balanced appearance.
• Establish Proper Bite Function: By addressing alignment issues early, we can promote a functional bite that facilitates better chewing and speaking abilities.

The duration of phase one treatment typically lasts around 6 to 12 months, after which we will closely monitor the child’s progress and development.

Phase Two: Comprehensive Treatment

Once the child’s permanent teeth begin to emerge, usually around ages 11 to 14, we enter the second phase of treatment. This phase is focused on finalizing the alignment of the teeth and achieving the desired results. During this stage, we may use:

• Braces or Clear Aligners: Depending on the specific needs of the patient, we may recommend traditional braces or clear aligners like Invisalign to straighten the teeth and refine the bite.
• Additional Appliances: In some cases, other orthodontic appliances may be necessary to correct lingering issues that were identified in phase one.

The second phase usually lasts between 12 to 24 months, resulting in a beautiful, functional smile that is built to last.

Benefits of Two-Phase Treatment

• Preventing More Serious Issues: Early intervention can prevent more severe problems from developing later, potentially reducing the need for extractions or more complex treatments.
• Improved Oral Health: By addressing issues in childhood, we promote better oral health as permanent teeth erupt, which can reduce the likelihood of cavities and gum disease.
• Enhanced Confidence: Achieving a straight smile at an early age can boost self-esteem and confidence, making social interactions more enjoyable for children.
• Long-Lasting Results: By strategically timing treatment, we can create a stable, healthy bite that lasts throughout adulthood.

Is Two-Phase Treatment Right for Your Child?

Two-phase orthodontic treatment is not necessary for every child, but it can be highly beneficial for those exhibiting signs of orthodontic issues. At Carolina Braces, we provide comprehensive evaluations to determine the best course of action for your child’s unique needs.

Our team will assess your child’s dental and facial development and discuss any concerns you may have. If we believe that a two-phase treatment approach would be advantageous, we will outline a personalized plan to guide you through each phase of the process.

Early Interceptive Treatment

At Carolina Braces, we are dedicated to providing the most effective care for our youngest patients, which is why we offer early interceptive orthodontic treatment. This specialized approach focuses on addressing orthodontic issues in children before they become more complex, helping to create a strong foundation for healthy teeth, jaw development, and facial aesthetics. By intervening early, we can often reduce the need for more extensive treatments in the future, while also making sure your child’s oral health is on the right track.

Early interceptive orthodontic treatment, sometimes called Phase One treatment, typically begins when children are between the ages of seven and ten. This is the age at which the first permanent molars and incisors have usually come in, allowing us to assess the child’s bite and jaw development.

The goal of early interceptive treatment is to identify and correct potential issues such as crowding, improper jaw alignment, or harmful oral habits (like thumb-sucking), while the child is still growing. By starting treatment early, we can guide the development of the teeth and jaws, preventing more serious orthodontic problems from developing later in life.

Key Goals of Early Interceptive Treatment

• Correcting Bite Issues Early: Misaligned bites, such as crossbites, open bites, and deep bites, can be corrected early to improve how the teeth fit together and ensure better function.
• Creating Space for Erupting Teeth: If there isn’t enough room for permanent teeth to emerge, we can use early treatment to create the necessary space, preventing overcrowding and minimizing the need for future extractions.
• Guiding Jaw Growth: During childhood, the jaw is still developing. Early interceptive treatment can help guide this growth, correcting issues like overbites or underbites and ensuring proper jaw alignment.
• Breaking Harmful Oral Habits: Thumb-sucking, tongue thrusting, and other habits can cause serious orthodontic problems if left unchecked. Early treatment helps to intercept and correct these behaviors before they affect the teeth and bite.

What Does Early Interceptive Treatment Involve?

Depending on the specific needs of your child, early interceptive treatment may include:

• Expanders: To widen the upper jaw and create more space for permanent teeth or correct a crossbite.
• Space Maintainers: If a baby tooth is lost early, a space maintainer can hold the spot for the permanent tooth to prevent crowding.
• Partial Braces: In some cases, a limited number of braces may be applied to correct specific alignment or bite issues.
• Habit Appliances: Appliances designed to discourage thumb-sucking or tongue-thrusting can help stop these habits and prevent them from affecting oral development.

By addressing orthodontic problems early, we can often reduce the length and complexity of future treatment, saving time and preventing discomfort for your child. Early interceptive treatment provides a proactive approach, allowing us to make the necessary adjustments as your child’s mouth is still growing and developing.

In many cases, early treatment can eliminate the need for more invasive procedures like tooth extractions or jaw surgery. It also helps boost your child’s self-esteem, as they gain confidence from having a well-aligned and functional smile at an early age.

How to Know If Your Child Needs Early Interceptive Treatment

While not every child will require early orthodontic intervention, there are some signs that may indicate the need for treatment. Consider scheduling a consultation if your child:

• Has difficulty biting or chewing
• Loses baby teeth too early or too late
• Breathes through the mouth instead of the nose
• Sucks their thumb or fingers after age 5
• Has crowded, crooked, or misplaced teeth
• Exhibits a misaligned bite, such as an overbite, underbite, or crossbite

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age seven. This allows us to identify any potential issues early and develop a treatment plan tailored to your child’s needs.

The Benefits of Early Interceptive Treatment

• Prevents More Serious Issues: Early treatment can intercept and correct orthodontic problems before they worsen, reducing the need for more complex treatments in the future.
• Improves Function and Aesthetics: By guiding the growth of the teeth and jaws, we can enhance both the function of your child’s bite and the appearance of their smile.
• Boosts Self-Esteem: Early treatment can give your child the confidence that comes from having a well-aligned and functional smile.

If you’re wondering whether early interceptive treatment is right for your child, we invite you to schedule a consultation at Carolina Braces. Our expert team will evaluate your child’s orthodontic development and recommend the best course of action to ensure a healthy, beautiful smile for years to come.

Dental Pain Eraser

At Carolina Braces, we are always looking for ways to improve the comfort and experience of our patients. That’s why we are proud to offer the Dental Pain Eraser, a cutting-edge device designed to deliver instant relief from orthodontic pain. Whether it’s discomfort from newly placed braces or soreness from adjustments, the Dental Pain Eraser offers a quick, convenient, and non-invasive solution.

What is the Dental Pain Eraser?

The Dental Pain Eraser is a small, handheld device that uses neurostimulation technology to provide pain relief. This advanced technology delivers gentle electrical impulses that block pain signals at the source, offering immediate relief from oral discomfort. It’s safe for patients of all ages, making it ideal for kids, teens, and adults alike.

How Does It Work?

The Dental Pain Eraser works by targeting the nerves that send pain signals from the teeth and gums to the brain. By applying the device to the affected area, the electrical impulses prevent these signals from reaching the brain, effectively “erasing” the pain. The treatment is painless, easy to administer, and works almost immediately.

Key Benefits of the Dental Pain Eraser

Instant Pain Relief

One of the biggest advantages of the Dental Pain Eraser is how quickly it works. Many patients experience relief in just seconds, allowing them to get back to their day without being distracted by discomfort.

Non-Invasive & Drug-Free

Unlike traditional pain management methods, the Dental Pain Eraser does not rely on medications. This makes it a safe, non-invasive option for managing orthodontic pain without side effects or the need for over-the-counter painkillers.

Safe for All Ages

The device is suitable for both children and adults, making it a versatile tool for pain relief in patients of all ages. Whether it’s for young patients adjusting to new braces or adults experiencing discomfort from treatment, the Dental Pain Eraser can provide quick comfort.

Convenient & Portable

The Dental Pain Eraser is small and portable, making it easy to use at home, at school, or on the go. It can be used as often as needed, providing reliable pain relief without requiring a visit to our office.

When Can You Use the Dental Pain Eraser?

The Dental Pain Eraser can be used in various situations to relieve common orthodontic discomfort, including:

• After braces are tightened or adjusted
• When new appliances, such as expanders or retainers, are placed
• For tender spots caused by braces rubbing against the inside of the cheeks or lips
• To soothe discomfort from new aligner trays

Because it’s safe and easy to use, patients can apply the Dental Pain Eraser whenever they feel discomfort, offering a convenient way to manage pain between appointments.

At Carolina Braces, we prioritize the comfort and well-being of our patients. That’s why we are excited to offer innovative solutions like the Dental Pain Eraser to enhance your orthodontic experience. Our team is committed to providing you with the highest quality of care, and we continually seek out new technologies that can make your treatment more comfortable and efficient.

Orthodontic treatment doesn’t have to be uncomfortable. With the Dental Pain Eraser, you can enjoy instant relief from soreness and focus on achieving your beautiful new smile. If you’d like to learn more about this amazing device or experience it for yourself, contact Carolina Braces today to request a consultation.