For Less Extreme Cases, Make a Smart Move

Dr. Reed’s patients love the way that Invisalign can straighten teeth with minimal effect on their appearance, and a less stressful treatment process in general.

However, Invisalign isn’t the only less invasive option out there. Reed Orthodontics is also proud to offer Smart Moves, a less expensive alternative to Invisalign that can usually be applied to less extreme orthodontic problems.

The Smart Moves Invisible Hard/Soft aligner system is a predictable treatment option for patient who truly value comfort. This treatment really does a great job, and can correct most minor cases of rotated teeth in about 3 months.

Smart Moves uses two aligners—the first aligner is a unique, highly elastic hard/soft material that provides controlled, predictable tooth movement. It’s extremely easy to seat and comfortable to wear.

The second aligner is hard and made of 1mm Invisacryl—each aligner is only worn for two to three weeks.

To learn more about Smart Moves, click here. Interested in Smart Moves or another treatment option? Click here or call Dr. Reed’s office today at 412.421.8565.

Get the Down-low on Overbites, Underbites, and More

One of the most common reasons patients first visit our office for a consultation is an apparent overbite. Although one’s reasons for seeking orthodontic treatment are usually aesthetic, overbites are a complex condition that can have a multitude of different causes, solutions, and risks if not treated properly.

In fact, overbites are just one of three main “bite” related issues that orthodontic treatment like Invisalign or traditional braces can remedy. In fact, our friends at Invisalign have published a nice guide on the different conditions that braces can fix:

OVERBITE 

What people commonly refer to as an "overbite" is known to dental professionals as "overjet." It occurs when the upper teeth bite over the lower teeth. It's typically caused by genetics, bad oral habits, or overdevelopment of the bone that supports the teeth. This can lead to gum problems or irritation, and/or wear on the lower teeth, and can cause painful jaw and joint problem 

 UNDERBITE 

Underbite can occur when the lower teeth protrude past the front teeth. It's usually caused by undergrowth of the upper jaw, overgrowth of the lower jaw, or both. It can also be caused by missing upper teeth. This can prevent the normal function of front teeth or molars, which can lead to tooth wear. It can also cause painful jaw and joint problems.
  

OPEN BITE 

Open bite often occurs when some teeth are unable to make physical contact with the opposing teeth for a proper bite. Most often caused by a genetic abnormal jaw structure or excessive thumb-sucking, an open bite can cause poor or painful chewing, and even speech impairment. It can also lead to greater issues like thermo-mandibular joint disorder (TMJ).
  

CROSSBITE 

Crossbite can occur when the upper and lower jaws are both misaligned. It causes one or more upper teeth to bite on the inside of the lower teeth, and can happen on both the front and the sides of the mouth. This can cause wear of the teeth, gum disease and bone loss. 

Click here for the full article on treatable cases, from Invisalign.

Wholey’s Fish Will Have to Smile Somewhere Else

Here at Reed Orthodontics, we’re known for producing some of the best smiled in the ‘Burgh.

But besides our patients one of the most famous “smiles” in Pittsburgh is the famous smiling neon fish that marks the location of Wholey’s in the Strip District. Since 1989, the fish has been a landmark in the popular food and shopping area, costing about $50,000 and measuring in at 100 feet long.

But soon, that fish will need a new home. The building that the fish is mounted on will be undergoing renovations, which means that the famous Wholey’s smiling fish to migrate to another location. And that’s where YOU come in.

“As we look to the new, we don’t just want to throw out the old. We don’t want to throw out the smiling fish of Pittsburgh,” Mayor-elect Bill Peduto said. “You help us find the location. You get the permission from the property owner and then the city will help you to make it real.”

The campaign for ideas will run through January 31, but there are a few fules—it must be within Pittsburgh city limits and consent from the property owner is required. It also must meet local zoning ordinances.

Do you have a great idea for where the Wholey’s fish should relocate? You can drop your idea into the red drop box in front of Wholey’s in the Strip District, or you can head over to their Facebook page, or you can Tweet at them @wholeys (using the hashtag #smilingfish). Or, email your ideas to smilingfishsign@gmail.com.

To read more coverage of the Wholey’s smiling fish contest, click here.