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Patient Spotlight March 2024 - Starr

At HeRo Orthodontics, we understand that the health of your child is paramount. Lately, many parents, particularly mothers who are deeply invested in the well-being of their children, have brought up concerns about tongue ties. As such, it's important to address this topic thoroughly, backed by the latest findings in head and neck anatomy and physiology. What is the Lingual Frenulum? The lingual frenulum is a thin band of tissue that connects the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth. Visible when the tongue is lifted, this structure is a normal part of the mouth’s anatomy, present from birth. It plays a crucial role in oral functions such as speech and swallowing. Defining Tongue Tie Medically termed ankyloglossia, a tongue tie occurs when the lingual frenulum is unusually tight or thick, which can restrict the movement of the tongue. This condition is characterized not by the visibility of the frenulum but by the functional limitations it imposes. It's important to dispel myths such as the existence of a 'hidden band' or 'string' causing tongue tie; these are not scientifically supported. Diagnosing Tongue Tie While the attachment point of the frenulum is a diagnostic criterion, it is not the sole factor to consider. The overall thickness of the tissue, muscle tone, and nerve function also influence tongue mobility. At HeRo Orthodontics, we take a comprehensive approach to diagnosis, considering all these factors to ensure accurate assessments. Causes and Prevalence of Tongue Tie The exact causes of tongue tie can be varied and are not always clear. However, studies indicate that its prevalence in the general population can range from 2.8% to 10.7%. Increased awareness about the benefits of breastfeeding and the availability of corrective procedures like frenotomies have made this a focus of recent healthcare discussions. Insights from the Latest Consensus Statement According to the American Association of Otolaryngologists and recent studies: 1. The lingual frenulum is a normal anatomical feature. 2. It varies in size and shape among individuals. 3. Tongue tie is defined by limited tongue movement due to a tight frenulum. 4. Only a minority of individuals experience significant issues from tongue ties. 5. Surgical intervention, such as frenotomy, is not always necessary and should be considered carefully. Our Holistic Approach At HeRo Orthodontics, we prioritize a holistic approach to treatment, considering not only the physical aspects of tongue ties but also the emotional and psychological well-being of your child and family. We understand the concerns of cautious parents and are here to provide clear, evidence-based information and support.  For more information or to discuss your child’s needs, please don’t hesitate to contact us for a complimentary exam. Our team, led by Dr. William Beaber, is dedicated to providing expert care in a compassionate environment. Contact us at (972) 722-4376. If you or someone you know want a straighter smile and all the benefits that come with it, you can contact HeRo Orthodontics. They can help you achieve a healthy and vibrant smile for the whole family. Just give them a call at (972) 722-4376. Be a HeRo share a smile!

When you think of braces, you might picture teenagers. But did you know that braces aren't just for kids? Let's explore why adults are also benefiting from orthodontic care. You're Never Too Old for Braces: At HeRo Orthodontics, age is not a barrier to getting braces. As long as your teeth are healthy, you can still benefit from orthodontic treatment, regardless of your age. Thanks to advances in dentistry, such as better ways to treat gum disease, more adults are keeping their natural teeth for longer periods. In fact, the oldest patient Dr. Beaber started was 86, and she was so impressed with the changes that 6 of her girlfriends from the nursing home also got Damon Braces. More Adults Are Embracing Braces : When Dr. Beaber started his orthodontic practice in 2004, most patients were children. While this is still true to some extent, there's been a shift over the years. Today, half of our patients are aged between 12 and 18, while 25% are younger and 25% are older adults. It's not unusual to see patients in their 50s, 60s, and even 70s seeking orthodontic treatment. Why Adults Choose Braces : Adults come to HeRo Orthodontics for various reasons. Some are referred by their general dentists due to challenges like keeping their teeth clean, wear from a misaligned bite, or needing space for other dental work like implants. Others simply want to improve their smile, often making this decision later in life, sometimes after retirement when they have the time and resources to invest in themselves. The Damon System changes EVERYTHING: Faster treatment times, Less Pain, Better Results. And, for adults? Damon Clear! Different Goals, Different Options : Adult orthodontic treatment may involve similar techniques to those used for younger patients, but there are some differences. For example, correcting certain issues like posterior crossbites may require additional procedures like surgical intervention. Severe crowding might necessitate more extractions compared to younger patients. Additionally, methods like headgear are less effective in adults for correcting overbites. When adults come to HeRo Orthodontics considering treatment, Dr. Beaber discusses their reasons, goals, and options thoroughly. Some may want to address specific issues, while others opt for comprehensive treatment. If you've ever thought about improving your smile, maybe it's time to schedule a consultation with Dr. Beaber at HeRo Orthodontics. If you or someone you know want a straighter smile and all the benefits that come with it, you can contact HeRo Orthodontics. They can help you achieve a healthy and vibrant smile for the whole family. Just give them a call at (972) 722-4376. Be a HeRo share a smile!

Embarking on a HeRo Orthodontics journey is a thrilling step toward achieving a beautifully straight smile. However, it also requires adjustments to your oral hygiene regimen. Braces create nooks and crannies where food particles can lurk, paving the way for plaque and bacteria buildup. Ignoring this can lead to unpleasant consequences like tooth decay, gum disease, and less-than-fresh breath. To maintain pristine oral health with braces, HeRo Orthodontics recommends adopting these dental hygrine practices: Opt for a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush Select a toothbrush with soft bristles to safeguard your braces and gums. Hard bristles can be overly harsh on the brackets and wires, risking damage or breakage. Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle and delicately clean the gum line and brackets. This action effectively dislodges any food remnants or plaque lingering around the brackets. Thorough Brushing is Key Take your time to ensure thorough cleaning of all tooth and bracket surfaces. Divide your mouth into quadrants and allocate at least 30 seconds to each section. Embrace Interdental Brushes Interdental brushes, also known as proxy brushes, are invaluable for navigating between wires and brackets, reaching spots beyond the reach of regular toothbrushes for a comprehensive clean. Flossing remains paramount for eliminating plaque and debris between teeth, even with braces posing a challenge. Consider these effective methods: Employ a Floss Threader A floss threader, a flexible tool, allows you to maneuver floss beneath the wires of your braces, facilitating effective cleaning between teeth and gums. Opt for Orthodontic Floss Orthodontic floss, designed specifically for braces, boasts sturdiness and ease of threading between brackets. Explore Water Flossing Water flossers, or oral irrigators, wield a stream of water to dislodge plaque and debris, offering highly effective cleaning around braces. Additional Oral Hygiene Pointers: Incorporate Dr. B's Healthy Gum Elixir to aid in reducing bacteria and plaque buildup, leaving your mouth feeling refreshed and clean and PH balanced. Purchase in office or through this link: https://www.drbsoralhealth.com/healthygumelixir Schedule regular dental checkups. We recommend to schedule cleanings every 3 months when in orthodontic treatment. Steer Clear of Certain Foods Avoid sticky candies, popcorn, and hard nuts, which can harm your braces and complicate cleaning efforts, to prevent potential issues. Hydration is Key Stay hydrated by drinking ample water to flush away food particles and maintain mouth moisture, reducing the risk of bad breath. In Conclusion, with the right techniques and tools, maintaining optimal oral hygiene during orthodontic treatment is entirely attainable. At HeRo Orthodontics, we're committed to assisting you in achieving a healthy, radiant smile. Follow our recommended brushing and flossing techniques, and prioritize regular dental checkups for optimal results. If you or someone you know want a straighter smile and all the benefits that come with it, you can contact HeRo Orthodontics. They can help you achieve a healthy and vibrant smile for the whole family. Just give them a call at (972) 722-4376. Be a HeRo share a smile!

Wondering About Orthodontic Spacers? If you're starting your journey with HeRo Orthodontics, you might hear about orthodontic spacers, also known as separators. These tiny tools are used during your braces treatment to make a bit of room between your back teeth. This space is needed for placing metal bands that will hold the archwire of your braces and/or other orthodontic appliances, like a herbst appliance. When HeRo Orthodontics decides to use spacers, it's usually temporary. You'll wear them for about 1-2 weeks before the metal bands are fitted onto your back teeth. Spacers work gently, creating a small gap between your teeth where the bands will snugly fit in. These bands are placed on your back molars, which is where the spacers go. There are two types of spacers: Rubber spacers: These are small elastic loops that slip between two back teeth. Metal spacers: These are tiny metal rings that are put between two back teeth. Which type is used depends on your specific needs and the doctor's treatment approach. Typically, rubber spacers are more common for most cases. When the spacers are put in place, you might feel some discomfort or pressure. This is normal and actually shows that the spacers are doing their job by creating space for the bands. It might feel like you have something stuck between your teeth, similar to food. Not everyone needs spacers, though. Some people naturally have enough space between their teeth to skip this step. However, for most folks whose teeth are snugly close, spacers are necessary to make room for the bands. The process of putting in spacers is straightforward. Your orthodontist or the assistant will use a special tool to insert the spacer between two of your back teeth. This happens about 1-2 weeks before the bands are added. When it's time to put on the bands, the spacers are removed, and the bands are placed over the back molars. So, do you need spacers for your braces? It depends on your case, but for many, they're an essential part of the journey to a straighter smile with HeRo Orthodontics. If you or someone you know want a straighter smile and all the benefits that come with it, you can contact HeRo Orthodontics. They can help you achieve a healthy and vibrant smile for the whole family. Just give them a call at (972) 722-4376. Be a HeRo share a smile!

Patient Spotlight March 2024 - Starr

If you're in pursuit of premier orthodontic solutions, for yourself or your child, understanding your dental insurance coverage is key. Wondering if orthodontic insurance truly pays off? Discover how HeRo Orthodontics can not only enhance your smile but also make it more financially accessible! At HeRo Orthodontics, our warm and dedicated team is passionate about maximizing your orthodontic benefits. We firmly believe that achieving the outcome of your dreams shouldn't be accompanied by financial stress. Rest assured, our practice proudly accepts most dental insurance plans! Curious about what orthodontic insurance encompasses? Take the proactive step of contacting your insurance provider to request a detailed "Summary of Benefits." Don't assume that your dental insurance automatically covers orthodontic treatments. Look out for the "orthodontia" section to grasp the specifics of your coverage. Is investing in orthodontic insurance worthwhile? Absolutely! Securing orthodontic insurance for yourself and your loved ones can significantly alleviate the overall costs of orthodontic care. With a plethora of insurance options available, it's essential to consider various factors before selecting a policy: • Don't procrastinate – Timely coverage is paramount! • Understand the waiting period – Inquire about any waiting periods that may apply. • Beware of inexpensive plans – Cheaper doesn't always equate to the best option. • Evaluate deductibles and copays – Ensure they align with your budgetary needs. Unlock the details of your current insurance coverage by scheduling a complimentary consultation with us! During your initial visit we'll delve into everything you need to know about payment options and insurance coverage. Exploring the drawbacks of dual dental insurance is crucial. Many individuals mistakenly assume that having dual coverage guarantees complete coverage for orthodontic treatment, free of charge. However, this isn't always the reality. Understanding the terms and benefits of both your primary and secondary dental insurances is essential for navigating the coordination of benefits process effectively. Let's illustrate how dual dental insurance functions with a hypothetical scenario: Meet Sarah, who holds two jobs, each providing her with dental insurance policies. Plan A serves as her primary insurance, covering her for a longer duration, while Plan B acts as her secondary insurance. Sarah opts for orthodontic treatment, amounting to $6,000. With Plan A, Sarah discovers that orthodontic treatment is covered at 50% after meeting the deductible of $1,000. Plan A covers 50% of the remaining $5,000 post-deductible, leaving Sarah responsible for the remaining 50%. Subsequently, Sarah turns to Plan B, hoping it would cover the remaining 50% of the cost. However, Plan B operates under its own coverage rules. Let's assume Plan B covers orthodontic treatment at 30% after a deductible of $1,500. Sarah must meet this deductible with Plan B before any coverage kicks in. Upon meeting the deductible, Plan B covers 30% of the remaining $1,000, leaving Sarah responsible for the remaining 70%. Consequently, despite having secondary dental insurance coverage, Sarah incurs a significant out-of-pocket expense for her orthodontic treatment, totaling $2,200. It's crucial to comprehend that dual insurance coverage is intended to supplement, not fully compound, your primary insurance coverage. During your complimentary consultation, our friendly insurance coordinators will elucidate your expected costs and eligible payment plans, providing clarity on the exact cost of orthodontics with HeRo Orthodontics! At HeRo Orthodontics, we accommodate most insurance plans, including popular ones like Cigna, Aetna, and Delta Dental insurance. Orthodontic insurance operates in various ways, such as: • Percentage with a lifetime maximum • Fixed copay • Coverage at a rate or percentage If you have any lingering questions or concerns regarding financing options or coverage for your orthodontic treatment, our team is more than happy to assist you! If you or someone you know want a straighter smile and all the benefits that come with it, you can contact HeRo Orthodontics. They can help you achieve a healthy and vibrant smile for the whole family. Just give them a call at (972) 722-4376. Be a HeRo share a smile! 

Patient Spotlight February 2024 - Eliana

The Role of Orthodontics in Alleviating Sleep Apnea and Breathing Disorders: A Holistic Approach As a world-class orthodontic educator and advocate of holistic orthodontic practices, I want to address a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of orthodontic care: its role in treating sleep apnea and breathing disorders, especially in children aged 8-15. This approach, inspired by Dr. William Beaber's 'HeRo' method, emphasizes a comprehensive view of orthodontics, where the focus extends beyond just straightening teeth to improving overall health and well-being. Understanding the Connection: Malocclusion, Airway Obstruction, and Sleep Quality First, let's delve into the basics. Malocclusion, a condition where the teeth are not correctly aligned when the mouth is closed, can lead to various issues, including airway obstruction. This obstruction is a critical factor in sleep-related breathing disorders, such as sleep apnea. In children, this can manifest as snoring, restless sleep, and even behavioral or attention issues during the day. Why does this happen? When teeth are misaligned, it can affect the jaw's position and consequently, the airway's size and shape. A smaller or restricted airway can lead to difficulty breathing at night, which is the core problem in sleep apnea. The Holistic Orthodontic Approach In the holistic view of orthodontics, championed by practitioners like Dr. Beaber, the goal is not just to straighten teeth but to consider the patient's overall facial development and health. This approach is particularly important when dealing with sleep apnea and breathing disorders in children. Orthodontic Interventions for Sleep Apnea Expanding the Palate: Orthodontic treatments can involve expanding the palate, especially in younger patients. This expansion can increase the nasal cavity size, improving airflow and reducing the symptoms of sleep apnea. Adjusting Jaw Position: Certain orthodontic appliances can help in repositioning the lower jaw forward. This adjustment can open up the airway, providing more space for airflow and reducing obstruction during sleep. Aligning Teeth for Better Jaw Closure: Proper alignment of teeth can lead to a better bite, ensuring the jaw closes in a position that maximizes the airway space. Early Intervention: Identifying and treating malocclusions early in children can not only prevent the development of more severe orthodontic issues but also address breathing-related sleep disorders before they become more problematic. The Benefits of Treating Sleep Apnea Through Orthodontics The advantages of addressing sleep apnea through orthodontic interventions are manifold, particularly for children: Improved Sleep Quality: Alleviating breathing difficulties during sleep can lead to a deeper, more restful sleep, crucial for a child's development and daily functioning. Better Overall Health: Good sleep is essential for physical health, mental well-being, and growth. By treating the root cause of sleep apnea, we can significantly improve a child's overall health. Enhanced Daytime Functioning: Children with untreated sleep disorders often face challenges such as fatigue, attention issues, and learning difficulties. Orthodontic treatment can mitigate these issues, leading to better performance in school and daily activities. Long-term Benefits: Addressing these issues early can prevent the development of more severe problems in adulthood, including the risk of chronic sleep apnea. Conclusion: Embracing a More Comprehensive Orthodontic Care As parents, it's vital to understand the broader implications of orthodontic problems. It's not just about achieving a perfect smile but ensuring your child's overall health and well-being. In cases of sleep apnea and breathing disorders, orthodontic treatment can be a game-changer. I encourage moms to look at orthodontics from this holistic perspective. It's about understanding the interconnectedness of oral health with overall health and ensuring that our children get the comprehensive care they deserve. By adopting a more holistic approach, we can make a significant difference in our children's lives, paving the way for healthier, happier futures.  If you or someone you know want a straighter smile and all the benefits that come with it, you can contact HeRo Orthodontics. They can help you achieve a healthy and vibrant smile for the whole family. Just give them a call at (972) 722-4376. Be a HeRo share a smile!