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Crowding

open bite treatment
Significant crowding – treated with braces commencing while some baby teeth still present – without premolar extractions
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    549 Dandenong Road, Malvern Victoria 3144

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    Dr Michael Woods is amazing very happy I found him after having incorrect work done on my teeth. Dr michael woods rectified the errors was honest and fair. Very blessed to have met.

    Suzie Malek
    kids orthodontics

    Always Here for Your Dental Needs

    Common Questions

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Can severe crowding really be treated without extractions?

    Yes, in most cases severe crowding can be successfully managed without removing healthy teeth. Early intervention allows us to use palatal expansion, arch development, and strategic eruption guidance to create adequate space. While some extreme cases may still require extractions, our non-extraction success rate is significantly higher than traditional approaches.

    When is the best time to start crowding treatment?
    Optimal timing is usually during the mixed dentition phase (ages 7-11) when baby teeth are still present. This allows us to guide eruption patterns and use natural growth for space creation. However, adults can also benefit from expansion techniques, though treatment may take longer and have some limitations compared to growing patients.
    How does palatal expansion work for crowding?
    Palatal expansion widens the upper jaw by gradually separating the palatal suture, creating additional arch width for crowded teeth. This is most effective in growing patients but can also work in adults with careful case selection. The expansion creates permanent space that doesn't relapse, providing a stable foundation for alignment.
    Will expansion treatment be uncomfortable?
    Patients typically experience mild pressure during active expansion, similar to braces adjustments. Most children adapt quickly to expansion appliances. Initial speech changes and eating adjustments are temporary. We provide detailed instructions for comfort management and monitor progress closely throughout the expansion phase.
    How long does crowding treatment take?
    Treatment timeline depends on severity and patient age. Early intervention cases often take 18-24 months including expansion and initial alignment phases. Adult crowding treatment may require 24-36 months. Starting early usually reduces overall treatment time compared to waiting until all permanent teeth erupt.
    What's the difference between expansion and extraction approaches?
    Expansion creates space by widening dental arches and utilizing natural growth, preserving all teeth and optimal facial support. Extraction removes healthy teeth to create space but may result in narrower arches and reduced facial fullness. Our expansion approach typically provides better long-term stability and aesthetics.
    Can adults benefit from non-extraction crowding treatment?
    Yes, though adult treatment has different considerations than growing patients. Adult expansion may use surgical assistance or alternative techniques like interproximal reduction (IPR) combined with alignment. While natural growth isn't available, careful treatment planning can still achieve excellent results without extractions in many adult cases.
    Will my face change with expansion treatment?

    Expansion typically provides subtle improvements in facial fullness and smile width. Unlike extractions which may flatten facial profiles, expansion tends to enhance natural facial support. Changes are usually positive, creating broader smiles and improved lip support while maintaining natural facial proportions.

    How do we maintain results after crowding treatment?

    Long-term retention is crucial for maintaining crowding correction. We provide custom retainers and monitor arch width stability. Since expansion creates true space rather than just moving teeth, results tend to be more stable than extraction approaches. Regular retainer wear and periodic check-ups ensure lasting results.

    Ready to solve severe crowding without losing healthy teeth? Book a consultation with Professor Michael Woods at our Glen Iris practice, conveniently located near Malvern Central with easy access from Hawthorn, Toorak, Camberwell and surrounding suburbs.