Other Treatments

TMD/TMJ Treatment

Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD) affects the joint connecting your jawbone to your skull, leading to symptoms like jaw pain, headaches, difficulty chewing, and even earaches. At Seacoast Braces Miller Orthodontics, we understand how disruptive TMD can be to your daily life, and we’re committed to providing effective, personalized treatment options.

Dr. Miller and our experienced team begin with a thorough evaluation to understand the root cause of your TMD symptoms. This includes assessing your bite alignment, jaw movement, and any contributing factors like teeth grinding or clenching. By identifying the underlying issues, we can develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.

Our approach to TMD treatment may involve:

• Orthodontic Solutions: Misaligned teeth or an improper bite can place undue stress on the TMJ. Through orthodontic treatments like braces or Invisalign, we can correct these issues, alleviating pressure on the joint and reducing symptoms.
• Custom Oral Appliances: We may recommend a nightguard or splint to prevent teeth grinding and clenching during sleep, which are common contributors to TMD. These appliances are custom-made for comfort and effectiveness.
• Therapeutic Exercises and Lifestyle Modifications: In some cases, we may suggest specific exercises to strengthen jaw muscles or advise on habits to avoid that may exacerbate TMD symptoms.

Our goal is to provide relief from TMD symptoms and improve your overall oral health. With our comprehensive, patient-centered approach, you can look forward to a future free from jaw pain and discomfort.

Sleep Apnea Treatment

Sleep apnea is a serious condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep, leading to disrupted rest and a host of health issues. We offer specialized treatment for sleep apnea, leveraging our in-house expertise to help you achieve better sleep and improved well-being.

Our in-house sleep apnea specialist collaborates closely with Dr. Miller to provide a multidisciplinary approach to diagnosis and treatment. We begin with a comprehensive assessment, which may include reviewing your medical history, conducting a physical examination, and, if necessary, coordinating a sleep study to confirm the diagnosis.

Our treatment options may include:

• Oral Appliance Therapy: For many patients, a custom-fitted oral appliance can effectively treat mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea. These devices work by repositioning the jaw to keep the airway open during sleep.
• Orthodontic Interventions: In cases where jaw alignment contributes to airway obstruction, orthodontic treatments like braces or expanders can help by correcting structural issues, thereby improving airflow.
• Lifestyle and Behavioral Modifications: We also provide guidance on changes that can enhance treatment effectiveness, such as weight management, sleep position adjustments, and avoiding alcohol or sedatives before bedtime.

Our integrated approach ensures that each patient receives a personalized treatment plan aimed at alleviating sleep apnea symptoms and enhancing overall health. With Seacoast Braces, restful sleep and revitalized health are within reach.

Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment

Two-phase orthodontic treatment is a strategic approach designed to address dental and skeletal issues early, guiding proper development and reducing the need for more extensive treatment later. At Seacoast Braces Miller Orthodontics, we believe in the power of early intervention to set the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles.

Phase One: Early Intervention

This phase typically begins between ages 6 and 10, when a child still has a mix of baby and permanent teeth. The focus is on guiding jaw growth, correcting bite issues, and creating space for incoming permanent teeth. Treatment may involve the use of expanders, partial braces, or other appliances tailored to the child’s specific needs.

Resting Period

After Phase One, there is a period of observation where we monitor the child’s growth and dental development. This allows permanent teeth to erupt naturally while we assess the effectiveness of the initial treatment and plan for the next phase.

Phase Two: Comprehensive Treatment

Once most permanent teeth have erupted, usually between ages 11 and 13, Phase Two begins. This phase involves full braces or Invisalign to align teeth and ensure proper bite function. The goal is to refine the smile and establish long-term stability.

Benefits of Two-Phase Treatment include:

• Early Correction of Issues: Addressing problems early can prevent more severe complications later.
• Improved Facial Symmetry: Guiding jaw growth can enhance facial balance and aesthetics.
• Reduced Need for Extractions or Surgery: Early intervention can minimize the necessity for more invasive procedures.

Dr. Miller and our team are committed to providing individualized care that supports your child’s growth and development. Through two-phase treatment, we aim to create beautiful, functional smiles that last a lifetime.