All posts by AO Smiles

Arizona Orthodontist Reviews

What our Mesa, Chandler, and Gilbert Arizona Patients have to say about Advanced Orthodontics!

Looking for real life orthodontist reviews in Arizona? We know when you are looking for an Orthodontist for yourself or for your child you want to do your research. Finding a healthcare provider of any kind can be difficult. At Advanced Orthodontics we pride ourselves on customer service and a boutique style of concierge in what can typically be a very clinical setting.

Our offices located in Mesa, Arizona, and Chandler, Arizona service the greater Scottsdale and Phoenix areas. Our offices feature complimentary cookies, iPads and gaming for the little ones, and flexible payment options, but don’t take it from us!

 

Dr Larrabee and staff are amazing. I had my Ortho treatment with him a few years ago and now my daughter is seeing him to start braces. I love how Dr. Larrabee truly cares about patients and ideally doing the right treatment for each individual. We’ve been coming in for the past 2 years for my daughter’s (9yrs) wellness visits and she’s not ready to start braces. She’s still in between baby teeth and adult teeth. I like how Dr. Larrabee isn’t in a rush to place them like most practices would, he’s not about $ but about what’s the ideal treatment. This office is awesome. Loads of stuff for the kids to play with and awesome music always playing and of course I can’t forget to mention the fresh baked cookies, and after your treatment is complete you get to go the candy room, shhhh I loaded up when my treatment was finished.. yum. – Liz Diaz – Google Review 

Dr. Larrabee is AMAZING!! He said he could correct my daughter’s teeth in 18 months and he did. When she had her braces on and we needed to come into the office the appointments were quick and professional. The staff is very friendly and welcoming. I look forward to coming back to Advanced Orthodontics when it’s time for my other daughter to get braces. THANK YOU DR. LARRABEE!!!!!!!!” – Stephanie Cullison – Google Review

“Such a great experience! Everyone is super friendly! I cannot express how satisfied I am with my son’s teeth!!! Looks amazing!! – April Rodriquez – Google Review

My daughter just had her braces removed, and her teeth look amazing! I am so thankful to Dr. Larrabee and his team for all their hard work and wonderful service. The entire process was pain-free, and the entire staff is so friendly and amazing. (Beautiful office, also). I highly recommend Advanced Orthodontics! – Kris Winholtz – Google Review 

This is just a fraction of what our patients are saying. Read all of our Reviews:

Google Reviews Mesa Office

Google Reviews Chandler Office

Yelp

Want to see before and after orthodontic treatment results? Check out our smile gallery! If you are interested in learning more about Advanced Orthodontics don’t hesitate to reach out. Schedule a no pressure consultation either virtually or in office. We hope to see you soon!

Invisalign for Kids

Does My Child Really Need Braces or Invisalign? Why it’s More than Just Aesthetics

If, as a parent, you’ve wondered, does my child need braces? Can children have Invisalign? Or is my child too young for braces? Read on for answers.

Can Children have Invisalign?

It’s perfectly normal for parents to wonder whether children can have Invisalign. Many will wonder, is my child too young for braces? Children can have Invisalign as long as their teeth have developed to a suitable stage. Invisalign is an excellent treatment option for kids because it requires fewer trips to your orthodontist. Plus, Invisalign aligners can be removed after 20-22 hours, making them a more comfortable choice for kids.

Does My Child Really Need Braces or Invisalign: Four Signs it’s Time

If you notice any of the following signs, then your child might need braces or Invisalign:

Crooked Teeth

Crooked teeth are the most obvious sign your child needs braces or Invisalign. Crooked teeth are usually a result of:

  • Baby teeth falling out too early, causing the remaining teeth to move into the remaining spaces while adult teeth are growing
  • Permanent teeth growing before baby teeth fall out
  • Mouth breathing: causes the jaw to grow narrower and lower teeth to overcrowd or overlap

Speech Problems

The way we speak has a lot to do with jaw and teeth alignment. If your child often slurs words when they speak, it’s probably due to the lack of room in their mouth. If they find it difficult to pronounce, have a hard time pronouncing words, especially those with an S or an R, it could be due to a bad bite. Note, there may be other reasons behind such speech problems, but it’s best to consult your orthodontist first.

Difficulty Biting and Chewing

Children with a misaligned jaw or teeth usually have difficulty eating and chewing food because it’s painful. If your kid complains of pain when chewing or biting into something, doesn’t chew well, or avoids eating altogether, set up an orthodontist appointment to confirm whether they need braces or Invisalign.

Other signs your child needs braces can include:

  • An underbite: Lower teeth overlapping top teeth
  • A crossbite: Teeth that don’t meet on either side
  • Overjet: Your child’s upper teeth protrude over the lower teeth
  • Extensive overbite: This is when the front teeth overlap the bottom teeth extensively

Why Braces and Invisalign are More than Aesthetics

Braces and Invisalign go a long way in improving your child’s overall appearance, but their benefits are more than cosmetic. These treatments prevent existing bite issues from becoming worse. They are a lifetime investment because they also prevent health issues caused by misaligned teeth and jaws, such as headaches and migraines, from becoming a permanent problem during adulthood. They also set a foundation of healthy dental care habits that your child will follow into adulthood.

Is My Child Too Young for Braces or Invisalign? Find Out from the Experts

There’s no set age limit for Invisalign or braces. Getting these treatments early is often the best approach. While the signs above are an excellent way to tell whether your child is too young for braces or Invisalign, an expert opinion will give you peace of mind.

Contact the team at Advanced Orthodontics for a professional answer to whether your child needs braces or Invisalign for teens.

Top 3 Reasons to Keep Seeing Your Dentist Even if You Go to an Orthodontist

Do you need to see a dentist if you are going to an orthodontist? Many people ask themselves this question when they go in for their first appointment when having their teeth straightened.

The answer is somewhat straightforward, although if you are not aware of what services your orthodontist covers, then this is a question worth asking.

Is an Orthodontist a Dentist?

Orthodontists are medical professionals trained to diagnose and treat irregularities with the alignment of your teeth and jaw. While they completed dental school, their skillset and training are more advanced than most general dentist practitioners.

There are three leading reasons why it’s important to keep seeing your dentist, even if you start seeing an orthodontist regularly. Take a moment to understand why.

3 Reasons You Should Still Go to the Dentist

Your mouth is a complicated system with many small parts. It’s not uncommon for an issue to pop up once the braces come off or you have completed your Invisalign treatment. If this happens, you will need a dentist to help resolve these issues.

However, that is not the only reason to see a dentist, even if you are getting treated for teeth straightening. Here’s why you should continue to visit your dentist:

1. Regular Cleanings

According to dental professionals, you should be getting your teeth cleaned at least once a year. Having cleanings done every six months is even better. However, your orthodontist does not clean teeth. A dental hygienist is who you will see for that.

2. Get X-Rays

Dental x-rays greatly differ from those taken at the orthodontist. They are ordered by your dentist and often done by the dental assistant or hygienist.

3. Fix Cavities

If you have a cavity, you will want to see your dentist. An orthodontist does not perform this type of service. Orthodontists may know how to fill cavities, but they typically don’t have the right tools on hand.

Do I Need a Dentist for Invisalign?

To get Invisalign treatment for straightening your teeth, you will need to see an orthodontist. However, as you have learned, you will still need to visit your dentist as well. Make sure you get your teeth checked regularly by your dentist, and see an orthodontist for more specialized dental needs.

Are you ready to try Invisalign? Schedule a free consultation with one of our friendly professionals at Advanced Orthodontist.

First Orthodontist Appointment

Top 3 Best Things to Ask at Your First Visit with Your Orthodontist

If you are considering getting braces or Invisalign, the first visit with your orthodontist is a vital step. You will need to have an exam and discuss all of your options for treatment.

To help you prepare before your appointment, consider what questions orthodontists recommend asking at your first visit to make the best decision for yourself.

Top 3 Questions to Ask During Your First Orthodontic Appointment

If you are looking for someone to help straighten your teeth, then it’s time to schedule a visit with an orthodontist. But before you go in for your first appointment, you must do some research and be prepared to ask these questions.

1. What Are My Different Care Options?

Your orthodontist will review your diagnosis and discuss the different treatment types that will work best for you. Braces or Invisalign are the most common treatments for crooked teeth and malocclusions. However, it all depends on your specific needs. You will need to talk to your doctor to decide which treatment is ideal for you.

2. How Long Will My Treatment Be?

Treatment with braces or Invisalign can very drastically depending on your smile goals. Limited treatment can be a few weeks, while comprehensive care can take a year or two. Talk to your orthodontist about a realistic timeline for your treatment program. You should discuss how long each type of treatment would take, as well as any benefits or drawbacks for each choice (i.e., length or complexity of treatment, cost).

3. How Do I Care for My Braces or Invisalign?

Brush braces twice a day and after each meal as well as replace the rubber bands as needed. For Invisalign trays, scrub your aligners using Invisalign cleaning crystals at least once a week. To do this, begin by rinsing them with tepid water, and then place them inside their container with warm water. Add cleaner and soak for no less than 15 minutes. Be sure to ask your orthodontist if there are any additional care steps you should take at your first visit.

What Else You Need to Know for Your First Orthodontist Visit

There will be a lot of information to discuss with your orthodontist. You may feel overwhelmed by the entire process. That’s okay. Take a few minutes to consider what you want to ask before you have your first visit.

The choice of procedures, length of time they take, aftercare for orthodontic appliances, and the costs are all important questions to keep in mind. Your orthodontist can help with these answers. The helpful professionals at Advanced Orthodontics have been here for you since 2005.

Now that you know what to ask at your first appointment, contact us here at Advanced Orthodontics to schedule your free consultation.

Crossbite, Overbite, and Underbite

The 3 Different Types of Bite: What You Need to Know

Have you ever wondered how your bite affects the way you eat? It can certainly affect how straight your teeth are.

When it comes to teeth, the bite is one of the most critical factors. Your bite type is determined by an orthodontist who will examine your upper and lower teeth. While you wait to see your orthodontist, you can learn about the three different bite types.

The 3 Different Bite Types Explained

If you want to understand what is causing your misaligned teeth, consider the type of bite you have. There are three primary bite categories that most people fall into:

1. Underbite

The first type, an underbite, happens when the upper row of teeth does not extend over the bottom row. The cause of this bite is a misaligned jaw or malocclusion – improper positioning of the teeth when your jaw is closed. Problems that result from this include airway issues and difficulty chewing food.

2. Overbite

An overbite is when your upper teeth hang over your lower teeth. This type of bite occurs when the lower teeth and jaw are set back further than usual. There is no exact measurement of an overbite. Instead, they are measured in the form of percentages.

3. Crossbite

The last type of bite is a crossbite. This bite type occurs when one or multiple upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth. This misalignment can happen in any place inside the mouth and affect one or a group of teeth. The severity of the crossbite can vary, as well.

Can You Get Invisalign for an Underbite?

If you wish your teeth were a little straighter, it might be time to consider investing in your smile with Invisalign. However, you may not know whether that is an option for you. Over 10 million people have used Invisalign to correct alignment issues and straighten their smiles.

Invisalign is the right choice for anyone looking to improve their smile. The best part about Invisalign is you can use the aligners no matter what bite type you have. It does not matter whether you have an overbite, an underbite, or a crossbite.

Since 2005, the friendly professionals at Advanced Orthodontics have been helping transform smiles. They can sit with you and explain the best treatment to straighten your smile, no matter your bite type.

When you’re ready to begin loving your smile, contact us here at Advanced Orthodontics for your free consultation.