As a 5-star rated orthodontist in Bellaire and Pearland, McGrory Orthodontics is proud to be one of the most experienced practices in our community. We’re passionate about embracing new advances in orthodontic technology and the latest techniques, which allows us to provide our patients with a stellar experience from the first appointment to the last!
From traditional braces to Invisalign® clear aligner therapy, our talented team offers a range of treatment options to correct orthodontic issues from mild to complex. While most people know how beneficial these methods can be for patients looking to improve their oral health and makeover their smile, you may not be aware that even small adjustments can make a big difference! When a patient is looking for mild correction only, we’re often able to use a technique called minor tooth movement.
This method of treatment will usually involve using a removable orthodontic appliance with small springs or elastics to put gentle pressure on the teeth in order to move them to more optimal positions. Have you ever wondered what your smile could look like with just a little improvement? If so, minor tooth movement could be just what you need! To learn more about this technique and how it could enhance your smile, keep reading below.
What is minor tooth movement?
Also referred to as limited orthodontics, minor tooth movement is designed to address orthodontic issues that only involve a small number of teeth. This generally tends to be the six front teeth on the top, bottom, or both. Minor tooth movement allows us to correct and enhance smiles without having to use a full set of braces or other more traditional orthodontic appliances.
One reason we love minor tooth movement is how much less time it can take compared to braces or Invisalign. Treatment time with this technique is usually much shorter than it is with more traditional methods. You won’t get a straighter smile overnight, though! It can still take several months to achieve the results you want. You’ll also need to wear a retainer afterward so that the bone can stabilize around the new position of your teeth. We’ll provide you with a retainer, and you should always wear it exactly as directed by our doctors in order to keep your new smile in place.
Who is a good candidate for minor tooth movement?
Minor tooth movement can be an exciting treatment option for many patients, both young and old. There are a number of issues it can correct, including:
- correcting gapped or crowded teeth
- repositioning teeth that have shifted after previous orthodontic treatment
- aligning the front teeth to improve the cosmetic appearance of the smile
- improving how the bite fits together to help relieve excess wear or tear
- improving the overall appearance and functionality of the smile and bite
If any of these describe your mouth or smile, then this technique could be a great fit for you! The first step towards an improved smile is a complimentary consultation at our Bellaire or Pearland office. During this visit, one of our doctors will provide you with a thorough oral examination. We’ll also take photographs of your teeth in their present state and may do a panoramic x-ray or two. These images give us an in-depth look at your mouth and teeth and will give us a better idea of how we want to proceed with treatment. During your exam, we’ll be looking to see if:
- there’s enough room in your mouth to close any space or eliminate crowding without compromising your bite
- your teeth and roots are in a good position for minor movement to work
- the surrounding gum tissues and bone are healthy and disease-free
If you don’t meet these criteria, more extensive treatment might be needed. If you are a good fit for minor tooth movement, we’ll be able to move forward with a personalized treatment plan for you!
What treatment options are available for minor tooth movement?
At McGrory Orthodontics, we take a customized approach to every case. Each smile is unique, so our treatment plans are, too! While we’ll work with your specific needs, there are a few common options when it comes to minor tooth movement.
- Invisalign clear aligners or other clear aligner therapy — we can use a customized series of clear plastic trays to move the teeth into more desirable positions over time
- removable orthodontic retainers — also known as spring retainers, this appliance uses small springs or elastics to facilitate minor tooth movement
- traditional metal or clear braces — we’ll bond small metal or clear brackets to the teeth with tiny wires that are specifically designed to encourage movement
Choosing an expert like McGrory Orthodontics
In order to recommend the best course of treatment for any diagnosis, it’s essential to choose experts who are able to correctly assess orthodontic issues. Our doctors have decades of combined experience in creating beautiful smiles for patients of all ages in Pearland, Bellaire, and the surrounding communities. At McGrory Orthodontics, you can count on expertise, exceptional care, and state-of-the-art treatment options! Whether you need extensive orthodontic work, or only need to move a few teeth into better positions, your smile will thank you for choosing our talented team.
Give your smile a chance to shine
If you don’t have any significant straightening needs, minor tooth movement can be an ideal way to achieve the results you want in the shortest amount of time possible. This method can be especially useful for correcting mild issues like gaps and tooth crowding, giving your smile and your self-confidence a boost!
Would you like to learn more about how even minor improvements can change your smile for the better? We’d love to talk with you! Our expert team can evaluate your orthodontic needs and help you decide on a customized plan that’s just right for you and your smile. Call today or schedule your FREE consultation online!