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A patient recently presented to my office for a consultation who informed me their dentist advised them to use a special mouthpiece in order to avoid the need for braces(orthodontics) with the premise of guiding jaw growth and alignment of the jaw.

As a practitioner that is very current with the current orthodontic literature and trends in the industry and a member of numerous research study groups, it struck my attention when there was an orthodontic therapy I was not familiar with.

Upon looking in to this further, consulting the literature along with various orthodontic colleagues, it appears that the Healthy Start and various similar appliances are making the rounds for pediatric dentists and general dentists. This is true not just in our communities in Hernando and Citrus County Florida, but throughout the country. Could there be special mouthpieces that Orthodontic Specialists who do orthodontics exclusively, have been to ADA Certified Residency programs, and countless hours of Continuing Education are not familiar with that general dentists have solved?

On the Healthy Start website for instance, there is no literature or research to support the claims made of the system and the before and after photos on the website are from different patients. There is no explanation on the website or anywhere for that matter how the appliance works. Sensationalist marketing is used with claims that Math, Science and Spelling will approve with this mouthpiece, while Reading and Writing are not affected. They also claim that ADHD will be eliminated, the need for braces will be eliminated and the Temporomandibular Joint function will not only be improved, it will eliminate any disfunction 80% of the time. Additionally, the appliance can even cure Sleep Disordered Breathing(SDB), bedwetting, irritability and fatigue all while improving school performance!!

These types of treatment are advertised as a way to "prevent" children from ever needing orthodontics. While these appliances are unlikely to do any harm, and may even provide some mild benefit to early tooth alignment, they are mostly sold to general dentists and pediatric dentists who do not have training or knowledge in orthodontics. As the prevalence of cavities decreases, offices are often looking for additional revenue sources. Prefabricated mouthpieces are an easy way for dental and pediatric offices to present something to parents of young children with claims that they need that will eliminate the need for braces or any orthodontic treatment. In reality, it is likely that a child will still need orthodontics in the future and any type of orthodontic treatment that is completed by a practitioner without a firm understanding of tooth movement, growth and development can potentially do more harm than good, all while using the families insurance benefits. Additionally, while it is possible these types of appliances can provide some additional space for adult teeth, they do not perform bite correction. Given that these kids are unlikely to see an orthodontist, bite issues will likely go undiagnosed, and the patient will have more wear and tear to their teeth, and issues such as gum recession throughout life.

In short, when it comes to Orthodontics, tooth movement, growth and development, it is important to seek the advice of an expert. At Strouse Orthodontics, in Spring Hill and Lecanto, Florida as well as most orthodontic offices, Orthodontic Specialists perform complimentary initial exams and an Orthodontist can complete a proper comprehensive evaluation and determine a treatment plan best for your child in the long term. When you hear a marketing pitch of a new magic appliance that will cure Sleep Apnea, eliminate ADHD and improve Math scores(but won't be able to improve Reading scores), it is probably best to consult with an expert and avoid potential damage to the teeth and surrounding structures, not to mention the additional time and money involved.

At Strouse Orthodontics, we believe that everyone deserves a beautiful, confident smile, regardless of age. While many people associate braces with teenagers, orthodontic treatment can be highly effective for adults as well. Whether you're looking to correct a lifelong issue or simply want to enhance your smile, it's never too late to consider orthodontics. With offices in Spring Hill, FL and Lecanto, FL we have treated patients well into their 80s to improve their smiles and confidence! If you or a friend or family member may benefit from orthodontic treatment in Hernando County and Citrus County, contact our office for a free consultation.

Why Consider Orthodontic Treatment as an Adult?

Improved Oral Health

Straight teeth are easier to clean and maintain. Misaligned teeth can create hard-to-reach areas where plaque and bacteria build up, leading to gum disease and tooth decay. Orthodontic treatment helps align your teeth properly, making oral hygiene more effective and reducing the risk of dental issues.

Enhanced Esthetics and Confidence

A beautiful smile can significantly boost your self-esteem and confidence. Many adults seek orthodontic treatment to improve their appearance, which can positively impact both personal and professional interactions. With advancements in orthodontic technology, there are now discreet options available that make the treatment process more appealing.

Correcting Long Standing Issues

Adults may choose orthodontic treatment to address issues that have been present since childhood, such as crowding, spacing, or bite problems. Correcting these issues can improve not only the appearance of your smile but also the function of your bite, leading to better overall dental health.

Orthodontic Options for Adults

Clear Aligners

Clear aligners offer a discreet alternative to traditional braces. These clear, removable aligners are custom-made to fit snugly over your teeth, gradually moving them into the desired position. Invisalign is particularly appealing to adults who want a nearly invisible treatment option

Braces

Traditional braces are a reliable and effective option for correcting various orthodontic issues. Modern braces are more comfortable and less noticeable than ever before, making them a popular choice for adults.

The Treatment Process

Initial Consultation

Your journey begins with a comprehensive consultation at Strouse Orthodontics. During this visit, Dr. Strouse will evaluate your dental health, discuss your goals, and recommend the best treatment options for your needs.

Customized Treatment Plan

Once you decide on a treatment option, we'll create a personalized plan tailored to your specific needs. This plan outlines the expected duration of treatment and provides an overview of the process.

Active Treatment Phase

The active phase of treatment involves wearing braces or aligners as directed. Regular appointments are scheduled to monitor your progress and make necessary adjustments. Our team is committed to ensuring your comfort and success throughout this phase.

Retention Phase

After achieving your desired results, the retention phase begins. This involves wearing a retainer to maintain your new smile and prevent teeth from shifting back to their original positions. Dr. Strouse will provide guidance on how to care for and use your retainer effectively.

Success Stories: Real Patients, Real Results

Many adults have transformed their smiles and lives with orthodontic treatment. Here are a few testimonials from our adult patients:

Shane, 28: "Was really nice to be able to straighten my teeth and still be able to eat all the foods I love and being able to take them out to eat. Followed the routine and was even able to take them out earlier than expected."

• Andrea, 24: "I just had my last appointment with this group, and I could only ever say good things about them! They made a very long process go as easy and smoothly as possible. they have an amazing staff that I’ve enjoyed working with. I would definitely recommend anyone that’s having any sort of orthodontic work done to go here!

• Michael, 47: "A great experience. Easy to use if you follow the directions. Dr. Strouse and his team are top notch and worked around my busy schedule. I would highly recommend this office for any orthodontic needs you may have. "I just had my last appointment with this group, and I could only ever say good things about them! They made a very long process go as easy and smoothly as possible. they have an amazing staff that I’ve enjoyed working with. I would definitely recommend anyone that’s having any sort of orthodontic work done to go here!

• Danielle, 39: "Dr Strouse and team are very professional, polite and have a fine attention to detail. They made sure my teeth were perfect and I even got them off a month early."

• Carolyn, 67: "This was so quick and easy. The people here are amazing, and so is my new smile."

• Thomasine, 55: I have been very pleased with my experience at Strouse Orthodontics. The treatment plan Dr. Strouse recommended to me is working great! He and all of his staff have been wonderful to work with. They are always friendly. I really appreciate how the front desk always find appointment times that work with my schedule. I have to give a shout out to Tiffany who is a patient, kind, friendly, and calming presence whether you are her first or last patient of the day. I would like to add since my review above posted two years ago that I am thrilled with the results now that my braces are off. Over the past two years of being a patient I have seen the office consistently taking proactive steps to make their customers feel valued. They maintain a very beautiful office and every single staff member is absolutely wonderful to interact with. I also want to give a shout out to Amber who worked with me during the last part of my treatment. She was always kind, friendly, and helpful.

Kelli, 63:My teeth were a mess. Now I can smile with confidence!!!! YAY!!!

Conclusion

Orthodontic treatment is not just for kids and teens. Adults can also benefit greatly from improving their smile and oral health. At Strouse Orthodontics, we offer a range of treatment options tailored to meet the unique needs of adults. If you're in Brooksville, Crystal River, or anywhere in Hernando or Citrus County and considering orthodontic treatment, contact us today to schedule your consultation. It's never too late to achieve the beautiful, confident smile you deserve.

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Strouse Orthodontics - A Smile to Be Proud Of.

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We are thrilled to announce that Strouse Orthodontics has been honored with the Hernando Sun Readers Choice Award for Best Orthodontist in Hernando County for 2024! This incredible recognition is a testament to the trust and support of our amazing patients and the dedication of our entire team.

First and foremost, we want to extend our deepest gratitude to our wonderful patients. Your confidence in our office made this award possible. At Strouse Orthodontics, we believe in providing the highest quality orthodontic care with a personal touch, and this award reaffirms that our commitment to excellence is making a positive impact in our community.

Winning the Readers Choice Award is a reflection of our ongoing dedication to providing the highest quality orthodontic care in Hernando County, FL and Citrus County, FL. Our team, led by Dr. Eric Strouse, DMD MDS, is passionate about creating beautiful, healthy smiles for patients of all ages. From traditional braces to clear aligner treatments, we tailor our approach to meet each patient's unique needs and goals, focusing on both beautiful esthetics and function.

Why Choose Strouse Orthodontics?

At Strouse Orthodontics, we combine state-of-the-art technology with compassionate care in a warm and welcoming environment to ensure every patient has a comfortable and effective treatment experience. Here are a few reasons why our patients have chosen us as their preferred orthodontic provider in Hernando County and Citrus County.

Personalized care

Every patient receives a customized treatment plan designed to achieve optimal results. We take the time to understand your concerns and work closely with you throughout your orthodontic journey. Dr. Strouse and our team specialize in orthodontics and are not a general dentist that does orthodontics on the side. We truly care about providing the best orthodontic care to our patients.

Advanced Technology

We invest in the latest orthodontic technologies to enhance treatment accuracy and comfort. Our digital imaging systems, 3D scanners, 3D Printing and cutting-edge appliances help us deliver exceptional outcomes.

Friendly and Supportive Team

Our staff is dedicated to creating a welcoming environment where patients feel valued and cared for. We are always here to answer questions, provide guidance, and celebrate your progress.

Community Involvement

We believe in giving back to the community that has supported us. Strouse Orthodontics is actively involved in local events, schools, sports teams sponsorships, and charitable activities, making Hernando and Citrus County a better place to live and smile.

As we celebrate this achievement, we are more motivated than ever to continue raising the bar in orthodontic care. We will keep striving to exceed your expectations and help you achieve the smile you've always dreamed of.

Thank you once again to all who voted for us and supported us throughout the years. Winning the Hernando Sun Readers Choice Award for Best Orthodontist in 2024 is a true honor, and we look forward to serving you with the same level of excellence and care in the years to come.

If you or someone you know is considering orthodontic treatment, we invite you to visit us at Strouse Orthodontics. Let's work together to create a Smile To Be Proud Of!

Connect with Us

Stay up-to-date with the latest news, tips, and updates from Strouse Orthodontics by following us on social media and visiting our website. We love sharing our patients' success stories and helpful information to keep your smile shining bright.

Thank you, Hernando and Citrus County, for making us your choice for the best orthodontic care. Here's to many more years of creating beautiful smiles together!

A common statement I hear in my office is that "our dentist told us to wait until all the baby teeth fall out before getting braces." Another is "I didn't want to bring my child in for an appointment yet because I know they still have baby teeth". I have blogged before about phase 1 orthodontics and my, along with the American Association of Orthodontists recommendation that all children receive an orthodontic evaluation by age 7. Sometimes there are problems that can only be corrected at an early age, or that if left unaddressed early, would make treatment later on much more difficult, lengthy or leave a child with a psychosocial concern with their teeth through the adolescent and teenage years. What about when teens still have baby teeth? Here, I will answer some common questions about teens and baby teeth.

When performing an orthodontic exam, one of the first things I do is count the teeth. Are all of the teeth that should be present actually there and are there any teeth that should not be present that are present. Typically the baby teeth are all gone by age 12. If a patient is past the age of 12 and still have baby teeth, this is a signal that either something is wrong or there is a delay in tooth development. As their name suggests, the 12 year molars should be in by age 12. Additionally, if there is a baby tooth on one side but all of the other three baby teeth are gone, this is a signal that something may be wrong and further evaluation needed. These things are all a part of my diagnosis. I have seen countless patients the age of 13-18 and even older with baby teeth present that the dentist never told them should not be there or that they were "waiting for the last baby tooth out to do Invisalign" only to find out that they have several impacted teeth and their orthodontic issues are more involved than they had thought.

While for phase 2, or single phase treatment I typically like to begin when all of the baby teeth are gone, there are some times that may indicate beginning early. A main indication for this is if there is a tooth that is stuck, or impacted. In these cases sometimes I prefer to begin create space for a tooth that is crowded out in hopes of avoiding the need for a future surgery to bring this tooth in. Another reason is that sometimes, patients are congenitally missing(born without) certain adult teeth and the orthodontic plan is to keep the baby teeth as long as possible. In these situations, we will start treatment with baby teeth still present.

Sometimes, when a patient comes to my office, there are baby teeth still present that should have come out already. In these situation, sometimes the baby teeth need to be removed. This depends on the patients age, the position of the baby teeth and their replacements as well as the mobility of the baby teeth. If a tooth that should have fallen out at age 11 is still present at age 15 and is not loose, I will often advise removing the baby tooth before beginning treatment.

In summary, when to begin treatment depends on several factors determined by a specialist in orthodontics. While a dentist can be great at cleaning the teeth and filling cavities, they lack the background training and knowledge in tooth eruption, growth and development, and orthodontics to make orthodontic advisement, let alone treatment. While I typically like to begin comprehensive treatment when all of the baby teeth have been lost, there are several situations in which it may be best to start treatment earlier. The best way to find out what is best for your and your family is to contact your orthodontist for a complimentary consultation.