Poughkeepsie, NY Orthodontics 101: The Causes of Crooked Teeth

What Causes Crooked Teeth?

Crooked teeth, or malocclusions, are the main reasons why many patients near Poughkeepsie, NY choose to undergo orthodontic treatment. Crooked teeth can look undesirable or feel uncomfortable, and may even put patients at risk of serious oral health problems. Therefore, it is very important to straighten out the teeth before any major health issues begin. Before taking the step towards starting orthodontic treatment, many patients want to know more about why they have malocclusions.

Patients often ask:

• What causes one’s teeth to become crooked in the first place?
• Are crooked teeth preventable?
• What treatment options are available?

Drs. Cigna and Kroboth and their team are here to help answer these questions.

What causes crooked teeth?

Every patient’s mouth is different, which means that no two cases will ever be treated in the same exact way. There are many reasons for crooked teeth, and any one or combination of these factors may trigger patients to seek orthodontic treatment near Poughkeepsie, NY. Crooked teeth are commonly caused by:

• Genetics - most orthodontic problems run in the family. Genes are the primary cause of teeth that grow improperly.
• Gum disease - dental maladies could cause your originally straight teeth to misalign by changing the shape of your gums and/or the structure of your roots.
• Premature loss of baby teeth - baby teeth essentially reserve space for adult teeth before they grow out; a baby tooth that falls out early could cause the gap to become inadequately spaced for the adult teeth to fill.
• Thumb sucking - sucking fingers as a youth could put undue pressure on your teeth and gums, and gradually lead to teeth misalignment.
• Disproportionate jaw and teeth - sometimes, a person’s jaw could be too small for all of their teeth, causing crowding and crookedness.

The above factors will likely result in teeth that are misaligned, overlapping, angled, or other improprieties. In addition to being visually unappealing, teeth that do not align properly may be putting patients near Poughkeepsie, NY at risk for oral health problems or cause excessive wear and tear. Improper spacing allows for bacteria, sugar, and food to get trapped in between the teeth, and proper brushing and flossing becomes difficult or even impossible.

Can crooked teeth be prevented?

According to Drs. Cigna and Kroboth, in some cases malocclusions can be prevented, and in others not. It all depends on what is causing the problem. For instance, if the crooked teeth are inherited through genetics, then there is no way to avoid having these issues. However, if the orthodontic issues happen as a result of thumb sucking or gingivitis, there are steps patients can take to hopefully keep teeth straighter. Cigna Kroboth Orthodontics recommends that all patients take preventive measures to minimize the possibility of crooked teeth. Patients should practice good oral hygiene, being sure to brush every morning and evening, and floss daily. Additionally, parents should be wary of kids’ thumb sucking or putting undue pressure on the teeth and gums, and try to help them kick these habits early on. It is also recommended to begin evaluation at Cigna Kroboth Orthodontics office near Poughkeepsie by age seven, so crooked teeth can be monitored closely and necessary action can be taken before problems become worse.

What are the treatment options?

Luckily, many malocclusions can be fixed without jaw surgery and/or tooth extractions, and health problems associated with them can be avoided. If you are interested in correcting your crooked teeth for any reason, Cigna Kroboth Orthodontics has several different treatment options available. Braces can be a perfect solution, as their design applies pressure to the teeth and bones, moving and spacing them to better align the teeth.

Cigna Kroboth Orthodontics is also proud to offer Invisalign in Poughkeepsie, NY, which is a clear alternative to metal braces. To figure out which treatment option is the best for you, set up a complimentary consultation with Cigna Kroboth Orthodontics. Drs. Cigna and Kroboth will analyze your mouth, jaw structure, and teeth, and work with you to find a treatment plan that is right for your particular case.

If you are near the Poughkeepsie area and suffering from misaligned teeth, contact Cigna Kroboth Orthodontics today by calling (845) 227-7880, or by visiting www.CignaKrobothOrthodontics.com. We can’t wait to help you get a straight, glowing smile!

Top 3 Reasons to Get Invisalign® Near Wappingers Falls, NY

Many potential patients of ours are struggling with crooked teeth, but aren't sure about which orthodontic treatment option is right for them. Traditional metal braces, ceramic braces, and sub-lingual braces (behind the teeth) are all great options, but what if there was another solution available for most non-extreme cases? Cigna Kroboth Orthodontics is a proud provider of Invisalign® near Wappingers Falls, an orthodontic breakthrough that may just be the perfect solution for you. Here are three of the top reasons for potential patients to choose Invisalign®:

1. Braces… What Braces? Invisalign® is one of the most popular solutions to remedy crooked teeth that is virtually invisible. The Invisalign® system is a series of clear, computer-generated plastic aligners, which are custom fit to align the teeth just as Drs. Cigna and Kroboth prescribe. In this way, they work as effectively as any other orthodontic treatment, without the brackets and wires. Over the same period of time as other orthodontic treatments, the Invisalign® aligners will be able to correct many types of malocclusions. Therefore, patients can get beautiful results in the most discreet way possible, and leave people asking “Wait, what braces?”

2. Comfort and Ease: Invisalign®’s clear plastic material not only allows for an invisible look, but also a comfortable feel. There is no potential for poking or prodding, and no emergencies such as a broken wire or bracket. Patients of Cigna Kroboth Orthodontics near Wappingers Falls would agree that this is a huge benefit, as it prevents setbacks in the treatment schedule while also making for a more relaxed patient experience. Plus, Invisalign® is completely removable. Patients can brush and floss teeth more thoroughly, aiding in maintaining better oral health throughout treatment.

3. Real Results: The third reason Drs. Cigna and Kroboth advise their patients to get Invisalign® is the great results. Of course, the end goal of any orthodontic treatment is to get straight, better functioning teeth. However, unlike orthodontic treatments with braces, when Invisalign® comes off, the teeth are typically whiter and healthier in addition to being straighter. This is because the removable nature of Invisalign® allows patients to continue to use whitening toothpaste or strips, and the elimination of attached metal parts also eliminates the possibility of blotchy discoloration, known as demineralization. Better brushing and flossing habits means better overall oral health by the end of treatment, making the Invisalign® treatment from Cigna Kroboth Orthodontics the best possible result patients near Wappingers Falls can get.

Teens and Adults can enjoy the many benefits of Invisalign® such as their comfort, look, and great results. If you have crooked teeth and think Invisalign® may be right for you, schedule a complimentary consultation with Cigna Kroboth Orthodontics. Contact us today at (845) 227-7880 to learn more about our practice and what Invisalign® can do for you.

True/False - Facts You Should Know About Orthodontic Braces in Fishkill, NY

The practice of orthodontics has been around for a very long time. In fact, it is said that Hippocrates and Aristotle experimented with correcting peoples’ smiles as early as 400-300 BC. During the 18th century, the use of metal braces for orthodontic treatment came into play. Like anything that is age-old, orthodontic braces come with many rumored myths and facts. Some of these myths have been around so long, that you might actually believe them yourself! Well, Cigna Kroboth Orthodontics near Fishkill, NY is here to help by giving you these true/false answers to some common myths about braces:

 1. True or False – Braces only work for kids:
• False. Many people associate braces with adolescence, but the truth is that Cigna Kroboth Orthodontics treats patients of all ages. Braces for Adults in Fishkill, NY are rising in popularity due to the implied health benefits, and have become a great way to gain more confidence in your smile. Braces work quite well on adults, and Cigna Kroboth Orthodontics is proud to offer a variety of treatment options to our adult patients. For example, many adults prefer Invisalign treatments, as they are invisible, removable, comfortable, and convenient.

 2. True or False - Braces are usually very painful:
• False. Drs. Cigna and Kroboth want to assure their patients in Fishkill that braces will not be a painful experience. While yes, it is true that immediately after the braces go on or are adjusted you will feel some discomfort or minor pain, it is not true that this pain will continue throughout the entire length of treatment. Braces take some getting used to, but will not cause long lasting or severe pain. If you are experiencing any painful poking, prodding, pressure, or pulling, contact our office immediately.

 3. True or False - Orthodontic treatment doesn’t stop once the braces come off:
• True. The retention stage is just as important as the orthodontic treatment itself. Once the braces come off, the end result is a beautiful smile. However, keeping that beautiful smile does require some care in the form of a retainer. It is crucial to follow Drs. Cigna and Kroboth’s instructions when it comes to wearing your retainer.

 4. True or False: There are many alternatives to traditional metal braces available:
• True. Invisalign is one of several great alternatives to traditional metal braces. Their removable nature, clear plastic material, and smooth shape are cosmetically pleasing and effective. This makes Invisalign in Fishkill, NY a highly desireable option. However, while Invisalign can treat a range of cases, it is not the only alternative form of orthodontic treatment available for patients of Drs. Cigna and Kroboth.

For some individuals, options such as clear ceramic braces may be better. Clear braces are designed to be discreet while still offering many of the benefits of traditional braces such as their ability to treat all complexities. If you are a potential patient in Fishkill that is interested in any of these alternatives, Cigna Kroboth Orthodontics will be happy to discuss them with you and figure out what is right for you.

So, True or False: Cigna Kroboth Orthodontics near Fishkill, NY can help patients of all ages get a beautiful, straight smile through a number of different treatment options. True of course! We hope that this article may have helped to clear up your confusions of orthodontic myths versus facts, and have made less apprehensive to begin your orthodontic care. If you would like to learn more, or you’re eager to get started with your orthodontic treatment, contact us today to schedule your complimentary consultation. The team at Cigna Kroboth Orthodontics are excited to hear from you!

Questions to Ask Your Orthodontist Near Wappingers Falls During Your Complimentary Consultation

Let’s face it; most people's smiles are not naturally perfect. Many people suffer from crooked, misaligned, discolored, or even painful teeth. We have good news for the residents of Wappingers Falls and the surrounding area who have struggled with the appearance and health implications of their crooked smile.

There’s no better way to get started than a free consultation with Cigna Kroboth Orthodontics near Wappingers Falls, NY. During your initial consultation, Drs. Cigna and Kroboth will address your questions, concerns, and outline a treatment plan that will best suit your specific case.

We would like for you to feel prepared and in charge of your orthodontic treatment decisions, so keep these questions in mind when you come in to Cigna Kroboth Orthodontics:

 1. If my goal is to have a straighter and healthier smile, what kinds of treatment options do I have? Could any of the alternatives to traditional metal braces be right for me? – Asking this is important because it helps Drs. Cigna and Kroboth get an idea of your goals, and helps you discern which treatment options will work to help you accomplish your goals.

 2. What kind of preparation is needed to get braces? How many visits will it take? – It is always a good idea to ask a question like this to ensure that your orthodontic treatment will fit comfortably and conveniently into your schedule.

 3. Can I expect any pain when getting braces? – This is a common concern, and one that you should bring up if it is worrying you. The staff at Cigna Kroboth Orthodontics will explain exactly what to expect, and can reassure you that any discomfort will be short and minimal.

 4. What determines how long I have to wear braces? – This is another very common concern. The length of treatment will vary from patient to patient. During your consultation, we can evaluate your teeth and jaw alignment to determine the correct course and length of treatment.

 5. How will braces affect my lifestyle; the foods I can eat; and the activities I can do? – While it is inevitable that you will need to make certain changes to your lifestyle and dietary habits, you will likely find that you just need to make a few changes to your daily routine to have a successful outcome with your orthodontic treatment. We will discuss any of these changes during your initial consultation so that you’ll be prepared by the time your treatment with braces begins.

Other important questions you may want to ask include:

• Who will be involved in the orthodontic treatment that I receive?
• Whom can I expect to see during my adjustment visits?
• What will my orthodontic work cost?
• What is the “average” cost and what could be the maximum? (Make sure you are clear about what your insurance covers, who contacts the insurance company for pre-authorization, who files the insurance forms, and what flexibility there is to pay the remaining amount not covered!)

Your initial orthodontic consultation is just the first step towards that perfect smile that awaits you. Going in with the right questions will help you to understand the entire process and prepare you to do your part for your orthodontic experience. Be sure to bring a list of your questions! To schedule a complimentary consultation with Cigna Kroboth Orthodontics please call (845) 227-7880 or visit our orthodontic office near Wappingers Falls, NY.

Invisalign Available Near Poughkeepsie, NY - The Clear Alternative to Metal Braces

Invisalign, the clear alternative to braces, is one of the most recent exciting advancements in the orthodontic industry. In fact, it just may be the alternative to the traditional metal braces that have been thinking about, but too apprehensive to get. During your first visit to our Poughkeepsie, NY area orthodontic office, our team will create an impression of your current smile and digitize it. Our doctors will analyze the position of your teeth as they are now, create your prescription using Invisalign's ClinCheck System, and create a preview of how they will look after your treatment has completed.

Invisalign treatment in Poughkeepsie, NY is made up of a series of aligners that you replace every two weeks or so, depending on your particular case and level of compliance. These aligners can help treat patients with cross bites, under bites, over bites, spacing issues, as well as crowded teeth. Invisalign gradually shifts your teeth into the proper position and gives you the eye catching smile you have always wanted.

During your Invisalign treatment with Cigna Kroboth Orthodontics, patients wear their aligners approximately 22 hours a day. This allows for time to take them out for brushing, flossing and while eating meals. Besides ease of use, the aligners are made of clear material. People will hardly notice you have anything on your teeth, while your dream smile is consistently coming together.

Invisalign could be the ideal orthodontic plan for you, so why not find out with a complimentary consultation?  Call Cigna Kroboth at (845) 227-7880, as they have two orthodontic offices in the Poughkeepsie, NY area for your convenience.  Schedule a complimentary initial exam with Dr. Cigna or Dr. Kroboth and have all of your invisalign questions answered.

How do Braces and Retainers Work?

Braces are the go-to orthodontic treatment for children and adults near Wappingers Falls, NY due to the diversity of malocclusions that they can treat. Braces from Cigna Kroboth Orthodontics help properly align the teeth and jaw. This makes for better oral health and mechanical function of the mouth, as well as a beautiful, straight smile. Many people are eager to get the smile of their dreams, but really have no idea how braces are actually applied to straighten the teeth. Cigna Kroboth Orthodontics likes to inform our patients about the mechanics behind braces, so that you can better understand how to get the most successful results from your treatment with us.

How Braces Work

Braces are composed of several parts, which all work together to move the teeth by applying gentle and consistent pressure. While the braces parts collectively work to guide the bone and teeth to the proper positioning, they each play their own specific role as well. The brackets are the small square pieces that attach firmly to the front of the teeth. The brackets act as an anchor for the archwires. The archwires are the metal wires that stretch over the row of teeth, and they are gradually adjusted to guide the movement of the teeth. The elastics or rubber bands, if you have them, are attached to hooks and work between the upper and lower teeth to achieve proper alignment of the teeth and jaw. All of these components together allow braces from Cigna Kroboth Orthodontics to help patients near the Wappingers Falls area attain a straight set of teeth and better alignment. A little pressure goes a long way!

How Retainers Work

Retainers from Cigna Kroboth Orthodontics are a hugely important part of orthodontic treatment as well. Retainers come in many shapes and sizes, and can be removable or permanent. Once the braces come off, the teeth will begin to shift back to their original position. Retainers stabilize the bones and gums so that the teeth stay firmly in their beautiful new alignment. Retainers at times may feel like they are applying the same pressure as braces, since they are forcing teeth to stay put, but the discomfort will go away and your smile will stay straight and beautiful.

How to Get These Orthodontic Appliances to Work for You

Now that you have a general idea about how orthodontic treatment in Wappingers Falls works, you may be wondering what they can do for you. Drs. Cigna and Kroboth say that braces can solve a huge range of orthodontic problems. Braces help with malocclusions, or incorrect bite. If you suffer from overbite, underbite, open bite, or other bite problems, braces can be your solution. Braces can also help to increase your oral health. By having straight teeth, less food and bacteria will become trapped, lowering the risk for gum disease. Additionally, better bites aide with proper chewing mechanics and lead to better jaw health.

If braces sound like they might be a good fit for you, set up a complimentary consultation with Cigna Kroboth Orthodontics. Drs. Cigna and Kroboth will meet with you to assess your specific needs, and will help create an orthodontic treatment plan that will suit your goals and your lifestyle. To get braces and retainers in Wappingers Falls working for you, contact Cigna Kroboth Orthodontics today at (845) 227-7880. The first step toward a better smile is just a call away.

Why Fluoride is Important During Orthodontic Treatment for Adults in Wappingers Falls, NY

Fluoride is an extremely important mineral for oral hygiene, especially during orthodontic treatment. It helps make the enamel stronger, and the mouth healthier, and can help prevent demineralization during treatment with braces in Wappingers Falls, NY. However, it is often associated solely with kids. This is due to the fact that fluoride intake is highly important during tooth development, since it helps build the teeth to fight decay from acids down the road. Cigna Kroboth Orthodontics wants to stress though, that while fluoride is important for children, the necessity doesn’t stop once teeth are developed. Fluoride is very important for adults in Wappingers Falls, NY as well. 

Why do adults need fluoride?

Fluoride is extremely beneficial to adults for many reasons. The first is the same reason why children are directed to use it; it makes the tooth enamel stronger. Strengthening tooth enamel means building an immunity to demineralization and acid erosion, thus keeping the teeth healthier and preventing cavities and decay. . The second is that fluoride can actually help fight pre-existing tooth decay. If you are an adult patient that has tooth decay, Drs. Cigna and Kroboth recommend increasing your fluoride intake. The increase in fluoride will speed up remineralization, building the enamel back to health and blocking acid production in the future. Finally, fluoride is important for adults because it is a great way to prevent the damages certain oral diseases can cause. For example, an adult suffering from dry mouth conditions or gum disease may experience damages to the teeth as a side effect. Dr. Cigna and Dr. Kroboth say continuing to have good fluoride levels will prevent some of these damages, and ensure that the teeth are strong and healthy.

Where can you get fluoride from?

Fluoride is a naturally occurring element, that is found in water and in many foods. Additionally, fluoride is often added to the local drinking water. Often, orthodontic patients in Wappingers Falls, NY will find that just drinking fluoridated water can be enough. However there are also products out there that have fluoride added. Adults who are looking to increase their fluoride intake should be sure to buy a toothpaste with added fluoride, or use a fluoridated mouth wash. These products will help to ensure that adults are getting enough fluoride, and keeping their mouths in the best possible health. If you have any questions about how much fluoride you should be adding to your oral care, or want to know which products we recommend, call Cigna Kroboth Orthodontics at (845) 227-7880.