It is easy to confuse a crossbite with an underbite. Both describe problems with the way the upper and lower teeth come together, and both can affect more than the appearance of a smile. The difference comes down to which teeth are affected, how the bite is positioned, and what may be contributing to the problem. At Barlow Orthodontics, we …

You close your mouth, but your front teeth still do not touch. That visible space between the upper and lower teeth is known as an open bite, a bite problem that can affect eating, speech, and the way your smile looks. Open bites can develop because of childhood habits, tongue position, tooth eruption, or jaw growth. At Barlow Orthodontics, we …

Crowded teeth are one of the most common reasons people consider orthodontic treatment. Crowding happens when there is not enough room in the mouth for the teeth to line up properly. Teeth may overlap, rotate, sit too far forward or backward, or erupt in positions that make the smile look uneven. At Barlow Orthodontics, patients and parents often want to …

As a parent, you may wonder why your child would need to see an orthodontist when they still have baby teeth. It is a reasonable question. Many children do not need orthodontic treatment at a young age, but for some, addressing a developing problem early can help guide jaw growth, create room for incoming permanent teeth, or prevent an existing …

Finishing braces is an exciting milestone. After months or years of orthodontic treatment, your teeth are finally in their planned positions and your new smile is ready to enjoy. But removing braces does not mean orthodontic care is completely finished. Retainers play an important role in protecting the results you worked hard to achieve. At Barlow Orthodontics, we often remind …

Choosing orthodontic treatment often starts with the same question: braces or clear aligners? Both can straighten teeth, improve bite relationships, and support a healthier, more confident smile. However, they work differently, and the right choice depends on your orthodontic needs, daily habits, treatment goals, and personal preferences. At Barlow Orthodontics, we help patients and families throughout St. Marys, Kingsland, Camden …

Orthodontic treatment is designed to keep your smile moving in the right direction, but occasional issues can happen between appointments. A wire may shift and begin poking your cheek, or a bracket may loosen after eating something hard or sticky. While these situations can be frustrating, they are usually manageable at home until you can visit your orthodontist. At Barlow …

Many adults assume orthodontic treatment is something you either do during your teenage years or miss out on altogether. It’s a common belief that once you reach adulthood, your opportunity for a straighter smile has passed. The reality is very different. Every year, more adults choose orthodontic treatment to improve their smiles, oral health, and confidence. At Barlow Orthodontics, we …

Getting braces is an exciting step toward a healthier, more confident smile. Whether you’re a teenager starting orthodontic treatment or an adult finally addressing alignment concerns, braces can deliver outstanding results when they’re properly cared for. One of the biggest adjustments patients face during treatment is learning which foods can damage braces and which foods are safe to enjoy. At …

Choosing orthodontic treatment is an important decision, and one of the most common questions we hear at Barlow Orthodontics is whether clear aligners or ceramic braces are the better option. Both treatments are designed to improve the alignment of your teeth and bite, but they work in different ways and offer unique advantages depending on your lifestyle, treatment goals, and …